"Well, at the time of the incident I was distracted because these new dress shoes I have to now wear were very uncomfortable and bothering me...."
Another of the if-it's-not-broke-don't-fix-it rules being brought in. Judging by the responses on here and from what I've heard in the rest room, I would say the dress code IS something very important to the vast majority of controllers.
I agrees totally with no offensive logos, ripped jeans etc, but see no reason why jeans/shorts and a t-shirt should not be allowed if that is what the controller feels comfortable in. And by all means, those that like to wear shirt and trousers, feel free to do so.