Mixed dress code has never made sense to me. As I see it the dress code should have two purposes. It should show a proper respect for the Craft and the solemn occasion of being in lodge, but it should mainly ensure that people are on the level. So you cannot see who is the CEO and who is the ditch digger.
Having a difference in dress between officers and brethren does not put us on the level. The only exception to this should be the Master and his station is signified by wearing a hat.
My goodness, I've been saying this for a couple of years now. Spot on, Bro. CC. I've given this example before, but I've seen a guy get raised in either a KISS or AC/DC t-shirt and khaki SHORTS with flip-flops, I've seen a guy turn in his FC cat lect. and was prompted every single question and was standing there in cargo shorts and a t-shirt also(different guy) The latter happened the night I was passed and I realized then, as a Fellow Craft, that Masonry usually isn't what us newer guys expected....
When this is allowed, others look at the lodge and Freemasonry in general and see nothing but a cheapened version of the Craft that serves no point other than being a place to eat some KFC off a paper plate, hang out, vote on a pancake breakfast and to pay bills or not. Not what was going on in lodges 150-300 years ago and beyond. Blue collar is fine day to day as your style or work. I was blue collar for 12 years and made a great living. My dad has been blue collar for over 40 years in the aluminum manufacturing business, however, like you said Bro. CC, we have to meet on the level, but lets meet on a higher level, in uniform.
Edit: The FC was found 'proficient' despite the fact, I'm not sure he even knew the pws, tkn or anything....