Whenever I get dressed over-the-top for anything (which, as you might guess, happens kind of a lot) and I feel uncertain about whether I'll stick out in a bad way, I repeat my mantra: "If you're going to be a freak, be a proud freak!"

Works like a charm. And I quickly learned, as you did, that dressing wild is a GREAT way to meet people! =) All one has to do is be responsive to the compliments and conversational gambits inevitably attracted by one's attire.

I have to say I'm floored to learn that you of all people feel any insecurity about how people see you. You're easily one of the loveliest people I've ever met-- I would see you strolling around FSG every year with your perfectly-put-together outfits and your parasol and think "she always looks so beautiful and elegant, just like a work of art!"-- but even more than that, you radiate such a warm and welcoming and friendly energy that it's impossible for anyone not to be put at their ease immediately around you. I have great trouble imagining anyone meeting you and not instantly seeing how awesome you are.