I was going to say some of the same things everyone else is saying.

On the clothing - my H wears just regular clothes. Sweaters, sweatpants, wool socks, a hat under his helmet. The only cycling specific things he's bought are a neck gaiter thing (because he's a cold weenie), a nice water proof jacket/shell, and good gloves. The rest of his stuff is from discount stores or our own wardrobes.

I, on the other hand, do better with cycling specific clothing. Over the years, I've built up my wardrobe to be full of the things I actually wear. I have probably a ton of things I've tried and never gotten into (like arm warmers - I hate them). Luckily for me, I don't get cold easily (or I can take cold temps in stride), so I was able to 'make do' until I could get the gear that is just right for me. Of course, now that we've moved to a new climate, all bets are off and I'm going to have to go through the 'figure it out' process all over again!

Anyway, my point is that if you can make it work for you, then do it. If not, then don't beat yourself up over it.

I like to commute not for the gas savings but to avoid putting the miles on my car (we are trying to sell it and every day I drive is another 40 miles on it!) and to get in my workout. I have to get up a full 3.5 hours before I have to be at work in order to make it happen (I have farm chores that need to be done before work). Some days, it just doesn't happen. I used to feel like I needed excuses...now I'm just living with it. Sue me.