http://dulfy.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/1.2modelsrepublic2.jpg
So there is. Perhaps its just me, but the Sage and Knight gear look particularly horrible. not just 'meh' but, "Holy crap! please tell me I wont have to wear this stuff for the best stats" bad. The JK headgear is atrocious but I have to say I feel even worse for sages.
I really dont think Republic faction needs to be de-incentivised further.
Im going to try to keep from contuining to rage-whine, even though that;s how I feel, and offer some constructive crticism.
1st off, While I know Star Wars is fantasy, I dont believe the gear should look like WoW in space. These outfits (Imp too) just begin to look like silly fantasy outfits and NOT sci fi outfits. I think that is a mistake.
As we all have come to know, Technology, music, and social structure apparently changed very little in the Star Wars universe in 3000 years, so why fashion?
Here is what Consular and Knight armor should look like
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7p9L_wvlITs/TY0J6JZI6tI/AAAAAAAABYM/69rf3owU2fQ/s1600/obi-wan-kenobi.jpg
it DOESN"T need queen of Naboo hat or viking horns.
And Jedi knight. how baddass would something like this be?
http://www.atfmb.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Luke_skywalker.jpg
Awesome guardian outfit. or perhaps even something like this
http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs38/f/2008/328/a/1/Obi_Wan_Kenobi_in_Clone_Armor_by_Laubi.jpg
A somewhat practial suit or armor with a robe over it so you know its a Jedi.
My opnion (worthless, I know) is that we dont need crazy fantasy excessiveness. Id much rather see outfits that give us the elegence and simplicity I loved from the Star Wars movies.
My plea
Please Bioware, seriously rething the armor designs or at least make so i dont have to wear this stuff for the bes stats (hopefull removing armoring and mods from the gear will be possible)