Welcome to TE!! As as to clothing and if you should wear then on the bike... I'd say wear what makes you feel comfortable first and foremost.

I've always felt a little exposed when it came to wearing cycling clothing. The Lycra hugs the body and only if your really fit, would you look really good, and that isn't me for sure!!

Yesterday it was cold (45F- 15mph wind) but I decided to put on my wool base layer and bike clothing-- felt great. My husband opted for jeans and when we got back he was all sweaty and hot and I was feeling dry and most comfortable... I probably wore my bike clothing because I knew it would be busy out and less people would see me in my cycling kit.

Good luck and great to have you here.
Shannon