Mage build--no armor vs leather?

[Campbell]

Please forgive me if you already read this; accidentally posted it under the "Guides" section of the forums not long ago:

I'm working on a mage build w provocation tossed in. Pretty much:

Magery
Eval Int
Meditation
Hiding
Provocation
Musicianship
Resist

I'm reading a couple different things about leather armor and its effect on mana regeneration and meditation. I initially read that mages can wear a set up to 17 AR with various pieces allowed (studded sleeves (/leggings?), but no studded tunic, etc) without having an effect on meditation success, its rate of regen, or passive mana regeneration unrelated to meditation.

Now I'm reading that wearing ANY leather armor will significantly slow down mana regen, and that a mage should pretty much just wear clothes at all times to be most effective (this is pretty much how I remember things).

Can anyone please clarify this for me before I do something silly like start investing in GM Tailoring for one of my alts?

Thanks!

[Pirul]

I replied in the guides sections.

[The Real Sandro]

Before the object delay patch, you could have gotten away toggling a chest piece before you embrace a hit.

You may be able to find a way to benefit from it now, but I imagine having meditation and no armour is still the way to go due to the amount mini heal can heal.