True Buddhists are unattached to what they wear...
...so it's rather ironic that robes have become such a fashion statement in kung fu. Of course, we sell robes, so let me get that sell part out of the way immediately.
Shaolin Style Warrior Monk Robes : Gray/Orange
Now in general, martial arts uniforms are an affectation. From the classical kung fu uniform to the dress silk, these aren't your ordinary attire. One of the aspects of Chinese styles that is unique in the martial arts is that there is so much diversity. If you look at karate and judo uniforms, the cut is more or less the same. Judo uniforms are constructed of stronger fabrics because they get yanked regularly. TKD uniforms are only slightly different around the collar. But each of these symbolize a cultural identity that is special - it honors our traditions and our ancestors. Since the Japanese and Korean arts come from more militant roots, they are more standardized. Chinese martial arts come from all sorts of roots, militant, monastic, folk, you name it. So it stands to reason that Chinese styles should have a very diverse wardrobe.
With Shaolin styles, kung fu is an expression of zen. Within non-martial zen, robes are regularly offered to practitioners as a commercial product. Now logically, if kung fu is an expression of zen like sitting practice, why would we be attached to what we wear? After all, in martial arts, some people wear some pretty outrageous uniforms. It's all relative.