You and your friends have your own shorthand.

Two ear tugs while smiling at random bar guy: “He’s a dud. Save me.”
Swift kick under table: “Don’t make eye contact. Will collapse into giggles.”
Three-exclamation-point text while date hits bathroom: ...

In the shower, you belt like Bon Jovi. On the dance floor, you shake like Shakira. When lovesick, you wail like Wynonna.

So why does your wardrobe scream stodgy string quartet?

If only you could raid Blondie’s closet. Well, now ...

Cyber-punk art installations. Your chem prof’s stabs at fashion. Your boho girlfriend’s ill-fated attempts to date Microsoft guys.

The marriage of science and art isn’t always pretty.

Unless you’re talking about Seattle-based Flora and Fawn jewelry, a charming exception to the rule.

Your friends save for down payments; you save for Tahiti. They’re going organic; you’re on first-name bases with the emo sophomores at Dick’s.

You like to think you’re a rebel. Especially when it comes to your wardrobe.

So you’ll want to check ...

Goliath: Hey, shrimp. Whatcha wearing?
David: New Sling & Stones jeans, ya big oaf.
Goliath: Like a scrawny local outfit can outdo a big-name brand.
David: Oh? Begging for another can o’ whoopass?

Tired of industry giants dominating your denim? ...

You love hiking (around Green Lake), gazing at Mt. Rainier (from your car on the 520 bridge), and skiing (in between hot toddies at the lodge).

In other words, like many a Seattleite, you’re big on nature — as long ...

Start diet. Curb chronic lateness. Read The New Yorker weekly (and not just the cartoons). You had lofty goals in 2006.

Too bad self-improvement overload set in right around week two (blame it on that first two-croissant Sunday at Cafe ...