I think the classic outfit respects both parents Selina comes from. Both Bats and Catwoman of earth 2 had a flair for the dramatic as well as function. I tend not to favor "fighter types" that go nuts for the poly-carbon blah-blah.This is slippery slope to asking why not have a jet pack or a full suit of Armour ( I'm thinking Night trasher here ) As the sensi says the best protection is not to be hit.