"Emasculate?" he asks with a raised eyebrow. That's never been an issue in his eyes, personally, but maybe some people are a little more sensitive about robes. He's not sure. That's beyond the point, though, and he waves his hand so as to dismiss the question.

"When I was running away and hiding, I went for any clothing other than robes so I could hide what I was. Deny what I was. Pretend and escape. Now?" He settles back into his seat and gets comfortable. "Now they're a statement. I am a mage. I will not hide it. They need to get used to having mages among them, seen and unseen, for we have hidden enough. I don't see anything awry with not wearing them if they're not to your liking or not useful for you, but I find satisfaction and use in them. ...And as I happen to make my own, I stick to ones that are not restrictive or impractical."

Anders meets her gaze levelly. This is such a small thing to find division in, but she's opened with it. Why? Maybe her response to what he's said and whatever Vandelin says will help him figure that out.