Hector Amezcua/hamezcua@sacbee.com

Let's put politics aside for the moment in the race for Sacramento mayor, and talk about the really important stuff. Like style. Or lack thereof.

After Wednesday night's debate, the seven candidates seem strong enough to take pot shots from each other - and from the voters - so I thought I'd lob a few fashion salvos their way, as well.

I watched the debate in between catching the live results on "American Idol." And I was stunned. This was TV. A live broadcast. Do or die.

And I'm talking about the clothes worn by the candidates, not the "Idol" contestants. (The latter whom were appropriately dressed.)

Bottom line: If you're campaigning to be the mayor of the capital city of one of the largest states in the country, you can't, can't, dress as if you were dumpster diving at the nearest thrift store. Or appear like you'd rather be a back-up singer for ZZ Top or Lynyrd Skynyrd. Or wear black (with a bad tie) because you think you're channeling your inner Charles Bronson.

Yeah, it makes you a standout, but not in a good way.

To candidate Adam Daniel, I'll leave you alone because you dropped out of the race during the debate.

To everyone else, when you're trying to represent us, especially outside the city limits, i.e., during confabs with the likes of Michael Bloomberg (mayor of New York) or Shirley Franklin (mayor of Atlanta), you can get away with talking the talk (even if it is about chickens) but, if you dress inappropriately, that just solidifies the notion that California is, indeed, the land of fruits and nuts.

Trust me on this one: Appearance does impact your credibility. So, call me if you need someone to help you shop.

And, by the way, a trim here and there wouldn't be a bad idea, either.