If any of you know of the features associated with SWG, (Star Wars Galaxies; Yes, I know.) You'd know of the feature to wearing items that enhance your ability as well as wearing items "over" those items for your appearance. Now, what if Beth did this for Skyrim? The appearance items would have no affect what so ever. (As in no weight issue or enhancement) This would be useful to having your own unique look while also still having good stats.
I only mentioned SWG as I haven't played any other games with this feature. So I wouldn't know if a game like WoW had this feature or not.