Yes, there were legitimate reasons for modifying the habits that some religious orders wore. For instance, the head pieces that the Adrian and Sinsinawa Dominicans wore must have been close to wearing the crown of thorns that Jesus wore -- it truly cut into their foreheads. I don't know how they could stand it without getting a migraine headache!  Nevertheless, I think the Sisters should have modified their former impractical and uncomfortable former habits into something suitable for the modern era -- for instance, all Dominicans (both male and female) could have switched to black & white clothing only (their trAditional colors). They also could have a elaborate / formal habit for important religious occasions  (like welcoming new members into their order or celebrating major anniversaries). Whatever- - point being, habits still have a role to play in strengthening "corps" identity.