On the last point, about fashion, a guy doesn't have to be fashion-aware for it to make a huge impact.
According to one anthropology book I read, the way the brain handles visual input from the opposite gender is primitive. We respond unconsciously to exactly what we see, without any post-processing. This is why makeup works, especially when it is more expert and subtle.
I can't look up the precise quote, because (honest to god) my friend's dog ate this book.