[Iroh strokes his beard. That term seemed vaguely familiar]

I take it you are from one of the Earths then?

[Have a deep laugh at that]

Yes, there is a practice of avoiding fancy clothing around young fire benders, they have a tendency to ruin fabrics before they get control. Although if he was a bit older, he should know better. Some people get a little too enthralled with their own abilities.