My not so serious answer to gear: From the bottom up, flip flops, speedo, contrasting large red cape, racquet ball glasses and a shower cap. Oh, and the finger less gloves allow me to text and ride. I'm also considering getting some carbon fiber pattern tattoos in my high impact areas. Com'on, its just a scooter.
My more serious answer: Yes I have relaxed my gear requirements a little since since I bought my first scooter, a Burgman 650 two years ago. I've added more in-town (errands, etc.) riding to my normal 17-mile one way commute which consists primarily of back roads, so I bought 3/4 helmet. I've opted to trade some comfort for safety.
Even before the scooter, I didn't wear riding pants to and from work due to my job requirements but always wore them when riding for pleasure. I have since bought a pair of SIDI high-top riding shoes for those days chasing groceries and such. I know I've added to the risk of an injury but I also rode carbon fiber bikes is spandex for a number of years and assumed that risk as well. Talk about feeling vulnerable!
I've really come to appreciate the ease of use that comes with scooter ownership. You could pack a lot of stuff under the seat of my former Burgman or my currant Xmax (300cc), plus throw on the top box, and no one knows you're carrying a ton of stuff.
BTW, I'm averaging 75mpg on the Xmax and 107 on the PCX.