"Shopping for...Her"

   how to find the right clothes for you

"Clothing" does not make the woman. However, it does make up 90% of what people see of her. (Well, maybe about 30% if you wear skimpy outfits like Renee does. *Grin*) Nothing will help you get in touch with your feminine persona faster than donning women's clothing and styles. 

Trouble is, we start off knowing so little about female garb - which just invites "errors". Don't worry about it. I had an old football coach once tell me" "Asking a freshman not to make mistakes - is like asking a skunk not to stink." No matter how much advice you garner, you're going to make mistakes with many of your clothing and accessory purchases. 

Remember - having an "extra" closet - full of stuff you've never worn - is your official indoctrination into "womanhood". *Smile* 

getting past the nervousness of buying "girl stuff"

When I first started shopping for my female wardrobe, I was much too nervous. I felt everyone was wondering why I was intently browsing women's apparel. This was my imagination of course, but it felt "real" to me. If you are shy or new to the fem game, you might experience similar trepidation.

I developed a "crutch" that helped me get past this initial fear. I'd carry a list in my hand and appear slightly frustrated - like a man on a mission for his wife - which he really didn't want to be on in the first place.

If you are nervous about shopping for women's clothes, make your list, carry it with you, appear slightly agitated, keep staring at the list as you're browsing bra sizes - and you'll fit right in!

A lot of gals always have a tough time with this. Don't feel lonely. To this day - I still have moments where I walk away from a potential purchase because my "psyche" is just not up for what I perceive as a potential hassle. This is always wrong - it's just my feeble male side running for cover. Retail stores and their associates don't necessarily "want" to understand why I'm buying a skirt - but they need my commerce. When you  make a new purchase for "her" - you are doing exactly what the store intended for you to do. 

what's up with these crazy women's sizes?

If you figure them out, let me know! As our population has aged and "vanity sizing" has kicked in, designers are now selling an "8", to a woman that's really a "12"! All size logic has gone right out the window for a system that was already less than logical!

This has really complicated things for us t-girls. Why? Simple. We usually can't try on a garment in the store. Add to this equation our bodies are naturally different from women - and you can get very frustrated in a hurry.

My first rule of shopping is: No Return Policy - No Renee Purchase. I'm rarely in a position to try things on in a dressing room. Until you get comfortable with being able to peg your size by just looking at a garment, I'd suggest the following:

1.  Make your first purchases at thrift stores. (Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) You can get surprisingly nice items for only a few bucks. Whatever doesn't fit, you can take back, donate, and even get a little tax deduction. After a few trips, you'll start to get a handle on your fem size. This will most economically help you find the colors that look good on you. What I first thought was my "color" - was totally wrong!
2. Focus on "spandex" type fabrics. They give you a better margin for error and will adjust easier with weight changes. Since we don't dress 24/7 - we can always use the "negotiability". ::))
3. Stick to items that are sized "small", "medium" and "large". These garments are designed to include a slight "range" of sizes. You'll make fewer early mistakes buying this way.

trying on clothes in stores

After shopping for a period of time, you'll become more comfortable with buying your fem items. Once you buy enough garments, you'll eventually reach a point where you'll want to try them on in the store. Private, fetish type shops are a no-brainer - they are orientated towards our alternative lifestyle. However, traditional retailers, rarely are.

Department stores, are by definition - broken up into departments. Thus, they offer the least friendly "environment" for t-girls to try on clothing before purchase. Most major retail chains now include training on working with us to all their employees. However, that doesn't mean your particular salesperson will be adept or compassionate to your needs. 

Unisex, discount retailers like Marshall's & TJ Max are your best bet. If you are still a bit shy, you can take some male clothes to the dressing room with you. The only person you'll have to face in this process, is the lowly "guardian of dressing room thieves", who inventories the number of garments you try on. If you stop and put it in perspective, this person is insignificant in the scheme of things - don't let them affect you!

When I first started shopping for my female wardrobe in "traditional" retail establishments, I was still a bit shy. One thing I did to get past this coyness, was mentally pretend I was a "gay guy shopping for a dress" - not an uncommon sight in Atlanta, GA. It might sound silly, but it helped me. Most of the time, your "fear" in feminine shopping is actually your male ego dreading getting bruised. By sort of "tossing aside" my male ego - in favor of a more fem style - I seemed to feel less concerned what others thought. ::)) 

Another trick you might consider is carrying a small photograph of yourself all dolled up in your wallet. Most people assume any guy who dresses as a girl will look "horrid". When someone has jokingly asked if the "make up" or blouse I'm purchasing is for me - I've shared my photo with them. Most anyone who would ask such a question usually has a good sense of humor. And anyone with a good sense of humor - is usually more open minded than others. I've met some neat people this way.

Once you've shopped enough times, you'll likely reach a point you could care less what others think.

fashion & fitting

I've already mentioned our bodies are different from women's. Perhaps you've noticed it too! ::)) This has pro's and con's when it comes to buying and wearing women's clothing. Slim fitting dresses can actually look quite good on a t-girl, if she has nice legs - which most of us do. 

In general you'll find our rib cages to be larger than a female of our same height & weight - and our hips more narrow. The result? We are built sort of like an "upside down" female - and their clothes often fit us a little "backwards". Because of these variations in fitting I will reiterate how important a return policy is to your success in acquiring items you look great wearing. 

using "lines" to your advantage

Most of us t-girls are shaped like an "inverted female". Inverted? You got it - our shoulders are usually "wider" than our hips. Thus, a goal with our "fashion" becomes reversing the appearance Mother Nature gave us - through our clothing.

The outfit you see in photo "1" is a lot more "planned" regarding besting these challenges than you'd first think. Notice the jacket - I left it "unbuttoned". Why? Because I want your eyes to focus on the vertical illusion - not the width of my shoulders. 

Take a look at the skirt. It has a tailored "flare" to accentuate wider hips - I wasn't born with. Finally, the boots cover my large calves - and enhance the "vertical" lines of the "look". 

Now take a look at the photo labeled number "2". I've turned sideways only seconds after photo "1" was taken. My shoulders got "bigger" - didn't they? *Smile* I lost the advantage of the vertical illusion from my open jacket. Imagine if I wore that jacket buttoned up - I'd look like a "linebacker". 

As a general rule, you'll want to select "upper garments" that enhance vertical lines (open jackets, deep cut halter tops - even long necklaces). 

Your "middle garments" should focus on presenting a more horizontal appearance. (horizontal stripes, flared skirts, etc.) 

Try playing with the "lines" of your body to enhance your feminine form. 

You'll be amazed how fashion and clothing styles can assist you in presenting a more feminine look without the addition of body "padding". 

altering the situation

Regardless of initial fit, even the "perfect" dress or skirt will usually require slight "adjustments" to look perfect. Women often get clothes altered to look their best. Outside of hemming pants, men are not typically accustomed to doctoring clothes to get the right fit.

Do you think Cindy Crawford really fits like a glove in that hot Versace dress on the cover of Cosmo? Not hardly. The photo on the left is an an example of what you "don't" see in the glamour ads. Getting clothes to look their best on your body almost always involves some form of alteration. On your finest outfits - it's worth the investment.

Nervous about taking your dress to be altered? Don't be. For simple alterations - such as reducing the length of a skirt or adding a much higher "slit" - you can simply "mark" it yourself. When you drop it off "for" your spouse or girlfriend - you can go over in much greater detail all the things "she" told you to get done. Know what else? That little "lie" - is almost the truth. Your "girl" friend - did send you. *Smile*

If your alteration requires extensive on-site measurements - and you are shy about it - find a vendor catering to the "gay" community. Gays are often not up on the latest leanings of the transgender community - but they do know "DRAG". If you'll call them in advance and tell them you do an occasional "DRAG" performance - they'll be more than happy to have you come in and get altered to your heart's content.

One of my standard "alterations" is cutting the shoulder pads out from any jacket or blouse. Manufacturers include this padding to help women achieve a look we typically already possess - broad shoulders / narrower hips. Keeping them often gives you that "linebacker look" - which is less than ideal unless you make your living playing football on Sundays. Remember, we want to look like the cheerleaders on the sidelines - not the bruisers on the astroturf! ::))

Take the time to study women's fashions that are applicable to your size and shape. Remember, women's clothing and accessories are "designed" to hide flaws - or accentuate strengths. Do you have great legs? Then make them the focal point by wearing a short skirt. Do you have narrow hips? Then show them off in a slim fitting dress. Or better yet, wear a zebra patterned skirt with horizontal stripes - to provide the illusion your hips are wider and more feminine. Study yourself, study fashion, study how "lines & flow" are used to sculpt your appearance. 

Most of all, study women you see and admire. You'll learn a lot!!

wardrobe planning

I find wardrobe planning an essential component of my ongoing fem development. After you get past buying the basic items you always wanted, you begin to recognize the truly massive array of female garments available - and the variety of looks each type offers.

It is at this point you must start planning your wardrobe. This takes a lot more time than you might first think. The first part of planning is determining your "needs". If you're like me, you buy most of your clothes to look hot for clubbing or photo's. (I have no intention of doing church en fem! *Grin*) Okay, I'm a party girl - sue me! ::)) If most of your outings are geared to mall adventures - or exotic lingerie sessions around the house - your needs must be adjusted accordingly. It is easy to get in the habit of buying what looks nice - versus what we need. When you must maintain clothes for both the guy and the girl in your life - need outweighs want.

A good way to keep yourself on track is with lists. I keep a detailed inventory of all the items I own - and quite frankly - Renee has a lot of clothes. Subsequently, I'm always looking for holes to fill in my closet. Nothing exposes where I'm a little "light" - quite like seeing it in black & white.

I make a rule that each new outfit must match in some manner with at least two other outfits I already own. This is why you see so few dresses amongst my photo's. As fun as they are, they are not as practical from a wardrobe standpoint. For me to take it home, a dress has to be pretty hot.

One advantage we have in mixing and matching as t-girls, is our bodies are basically the "opposite" of our female counterparts. We typically have larger rib cages, and thus require more "full" tops. We also tend to have more narrow hips than our GG sisters. Thus, we need a smaller size in this area.

If you ever shop for a fem bathing suit you will be in for a field day. Women are notorious for breaking and rearranging sets in the stores to "fit" their needs. In turn - they often leave us with the "exact" inventory we require. The same usually occurs amongst panty & bra sets. Try to take advantage of this phenomenon at the sale racks.

feminizing specialties

Aside from all those dream outfits you've been dying to purchase for years, there are a few additional items you might want to consider adding to your shopping list. Each of these items serves the unique purpose of making you look more feminine.

If you have larger biceps than you'd like, consider purchasing metal "arm bands" to support the illusion of a more trim upper arm. I've bought them on line from Dreamdresser and acquired some at the Body Shop - a national chain for young girls you'll find in most major malls. I'm always on the look out for different styles and coloring, because finding ones large enough for our biceps - can be a bit challenging. I'd suggest you keep your eyes peeled as well - and acquire them when you can.

One additional note on armbands - the "thicker" the band - the less feminine it will appear. Also, don't wear it too "tightly" on your bicep - it it will cause your arm to look more masculine. Rather, bend and "mold" the bands to the contour of your arm. It really helps 

One feature I often seek is high necked designs. Unfortunately, women don't have an "Adam's Apple" - a tell tale feature of us t-girls. I enjoy the look offered by tops that cover this male trait. They also have the effect of making the girth of your neck seem smaller - which in turn makes your jaw appear less wide. They should be a standard purchase of any t-girl who gets "out & about" more than once. 

Another clothing item I find quite useful is a "shrug". They are an accessory item with certain garments and were very popular in 1999. They are particularly useful if you have hairy arms or muscular biceps. Their current popularity also means prices are now quite "cheap" for shrugs. Let them go out of style and watch prices double - as selection dwindles (the voice of experience you're hearing). 

I'd suggest you stock up on a variety of these useful items soon. They cover your shoulders and arms, while leaving the rest of you "on display" - a delicious combo! They are an essential feminine device for gals who can shave their chest - but can't trim the hair under their arms.

You can accomplish the same thing with various styles of hip length jackets.  

panties, lingerie & other fun stuff

One item I am very particular about - is my panties. As you might already know, undergarments are one item you can't "buy and return" due to health codes. Thus, you better like those panties before you walk out of the store with them.

Make your very first panty purchases amongst the cheapest stuff at Wal-Mart. Disregard "desires", you first must learn your size - and the cuts and styles that fit you best. This is trickier than it sounds as they are cut "opposite" to our needs. Women's panties are designed to hold that extra "behind" - we usually don't have - and they rarely include the extra fabric we need "up front". 

This is another area were women's shopping habits can save you some money. If you'll notice the "sale area" of many department stores lingerie, you will find lovely panties which have been broken from sets. 

Women with size problems are basically our inverted cousins. They are small on top - and wide at the bottom. We are typically narrow in the behind - but our wider rib cages make us wider up top. Thus, you will often find discounted prices on close outs amongst panty/bra plus bathing suit sets that are "just our size". ::)) 

Because I like to show off my tan lines, I prefer string bikini panties. Problem is, most of them barely keep a woman "covered" down below - let alone hide our extra equipment. I have found Victoria's Secret carries the most "filling" string bikini panty on the market. Others that cover as well, are too bulky in my behind - which takes away from the look I'm after. I buy my panties a size smaller than my other stuff - because I don't have a large ass (in fact, I basically don't have any ass - *Laugh*) and want them to fit snugly. 

One thing you have to get used to with panties, is "pulling" them up much higher than you do your jockey shorts - particularly in the "rear". This will seem "awkward" initially but trust me - it's the look you want. Women's hips "start" above ours structurally - and you will look much more feminine if you wear your panties n their "proper position". I'd suggest you buy one pair, find your right size and fit - and wait 'till the "panty and bra sale" to stock up. Victoria's Secret has these sales quite often - usually once every three months.

In bra's, I purchase the "miracle bra" style. I buy them a size smaller than I should, to help bring some flesh together in the front - for "help" with the breasts - I ain't got. ::)) Some girls will tell you all about how to properly measure your bra and the dangers of wearing a bra too small. Unless you are full time, your worries are best concentrated on getting a bit of cleavage. I wear as tight as I can - without causing that "unsightly" look of budging skin under my arms. 

To add "body" to my AAA battery sized "cups", I insert additional "lift supporters" into each cup holder. You can get these fairly cheaply from any Fredericks of Hollywood and in varying colors to match your bra. It's a heck of a lot cheaper than artificial breasts.  

If you have a broad chest, you can acquire bra "extenders", which have hooks on either size to expand the total circumference of a bra where it hooks together in the rear. These accessories will keep you from having to select only from bra styles your "granny" would wear. Red Rose, Frederick s, and others carry these extenders.

panties up & out

If you're slim - lower jeans - pull them up the rear.

Certain types of clothes just seem to work better for us than others. To select the right clothing you first have to take a

clothes that work

Certain types of clothes just seem to work better for us than others. To select the right clothing you first have to take a quick inventory of what you can - and cannot - "show". For example: if you have a hairy chest and cannot shave it - low cut items are off your list. If you have hairy arms and can't bleach or trim them you will likely want to stay away from sleeveless items.

Following is a breakdown of the basic type of t-girls I see most often - and the associated styles of clothing they seem too look best wearing. Remember: this is a general guideline - not a "rule book". 

The two most limiting parameters are your height / weight proportion - and your ability to shave hair from certain (or all) portions of your body. I'm ignoring height as a factor since it limits mostly "passability" and clothing selection - not clothing "style". 

Type A - The Prototypical t-girl - a bit (or more) too much "belly", not enough everywhere else she would "like" it, can't shave hair. Type A gals tend to look most feminine in a slim fitting high neck dress with a waist cinching corset underneath - and perhaps some hip padding added to the sides. The key for these sisters too look their best is in the presentation of "curves". 

Most gals in this category feel they could never look feminine and are sooooooooo wrong. Haven't you ever heard of "voluptuous" girl friend? With a little help from a corset or waist cincher - you'll look like 90% of the women in the world - and with make up expertise - you can look better than 90% of that group. *Smile*   

Type B - Slender gals who can't shave any body hair. These girls look very feminine in slim fitting "business suits" with high neck silk blouses and opaque pantyhose. Of course, you can remove the jacket as you see fit. I've seen gals of this type don such attire - and never get "clocked". 

Type C - Heavy to slightly heavy gals than can remove body hair. Same rules as "Type A" - but you should select a low cut dress - ideally sleeveless. Most of you get far too hyper about your extra weight. Trust Renee: you'll look more feminine showing a bit of skin girlfriend. 

After years of "testing" I've discovered one basic truth when it comes to passing - the more skin - the more fem. I know a lot of you early stagers get hyper about showing flesh - but believe me when I say - nothing clocks a t-girl quite like the lack of flesh on display. At the very least - buy low cut dresses and cover your arms with a matching jacket. It's a great look.  

Type D - Slim & smooth. If you are a "D" - you are very lucky. You can wear just about anything! However, since you can show so much more flesh with ease than your other sisters, you'll usually look most erotic in halter styled blouses and short skirts. 

shopping on-line

I've provided links to my personal favorites for "hot outfits" on-line. The Internet has made it all too easy for us gals to buy things we need discreetly. It also provides a comprehensive selection I would have died for when I lived back in Kentucky.

My absolute favorite is ForPlay. These people know what selection and service means. I have purchased a host of the outfits you see in my photos from them on line and I've visited their retail stores when I've visited Los Angeles on business. One trick in working with them: ask questions for ideas on outfits "similar" to what you find in their catalogs. I've had great success with their suggestions regarding styles I like - and they will even "custom design" outfits to your size at no additional charge upon request. Overall, they have the best selection, pricing, and return policy of any place I've purchased.

I really must interject something important at this point. If you EVER get the chance to go shopping on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles - do not pass up the opportunity! This area is essentially a "T- Girl Disney World" when it comes to buying clothes you won't find at a local mall for obvious reasons. First, the sheer number of stores in the area keeps prices competitive and the sale racks more than full. Second, these people could care less if you come in shopping for female clothes in a pinstriped suit or a g-string. They operate in an area where they see it all - and could care less about your particular fetish. Third - it's Hollywood Boulevard - what sort of clothes do you think they will be carrying - Brooks Brothers? Not hardly! Every outfit you'll see is hot. Finally, you will find more large sized women shoes in the styles you've been seeking - than you could ever hope to find in heaven when your days here are over.  

I've also purchased several items on line from Red Rose Lingerie. Their clothes are the type that tend to fit "us" well, as most are made of Lycra. They are priced right, they accept returns fairly, and I can personally vouch for my success with them. Carrie is great - and her packaging is totally discreet. If you'll click on either of my Red Rose photo, you'll find a link to pictures of me in a couple of my purchases. I've included an assessment on how each item fits - and how they might work best for you. I'll add others as I purchase them. ((hugs))

Another shop I enjoy is Dreamdresser. I have visited their retail store in Los Angeles, which is where I purchased the dress you see pictured. I think their prices are a little high on the basic items - but they have an excellent selection of very unique items and accessories. Their return policy is a bitch - so be certain you like it before ordering.

Finally, if you are in need of a corset or waist cincher, I'd suggest you visit Patee - a lovely t-girl from Canada who both designs and sells custom versions - and offers detailed advice for those who wish to make their own. Each of these handy devices will take roughly four+ inches off your waist. More importantly, they'll add those feminine "curves" that make larger sisters look stunning.  

If you are uncomfortable with merchants sending items to your home or office, just get a PO Box. Many merchants, however, will ship with no "indication" on the box regarding its origin or content.

I've purchased thousands of dollars worth of "specialty" clothing from on-line. In general, I get better selection and overall pricing from these vendors - than I find in Atlanta. However, returns and exchanges are almost always a problem. These firms are "small businesses. Thus, they are not well equipped to track "problems" - as effectively as giants Victoria's Secret & Fredericks. Thus, I'd suggest you really feel good about an item - and its "sizing" - before placing any order. 

shoes  

 If you are one of those lucky girls who has "little feet" - and can find women's shoes almost anywhere - well, I hate you!! ::)) I've got typical male feet - and few traditional ladies shoe stores carry my size in anything sexy enough to wear outside of a retirement community. 

If you wear anything larger than a size "10" in women's shoes - get ready for a pretty tough time in finding "hoofs" you desire in most retail stores. Some of the large shoe discount "mall-type" outlets will carry a few hot styles up to size "11" - but beyond that - their selection usually look like "house slippers". Yuk!! 

I've discovered most PayLess stores carry large sizes and are a good source for flats that don't look too cheezy. I'd suggest you start there and confirm your size, before ordering on-line. Returning items through the mail is such a pain.

What's your size in female shoes? Basically, you just add two sizes to your male size - and that's your size in women's shoes. However, watch out for one important difference you may face. Women's feet tend to be more narrow than our own - thus you will often have to "go up" one additional size to get the right fit. This is not always the case - but it happens more often than you'll like. 

Also, take the time to study the styles and names for each type - to enhance your future shopping skills. You can end up feeling like a total "ass" - if you don't know what a "mule" looks like. *Grin*

I always go up an extra size for pumps ("closed in toe" shoes) - because I have wide feet. I'd suggest you start with "open toe" or sandal-styled shoes, to give you some margin for error till you get more comfortable with sizing. If you are just planning on wearing your shoes for pictures and around the house - no shoe looks "hotter" than these sweeties.

Additionally, I have large calves and am a bit conscious of them as a woman. They look good with some items - but detract from others. One thing you can do to alter the appearance of muscular calves, is buy heels that include "straps" you tie up your leg to the knee. Regardless of color, they will make any set of calves look more slim.

If you end up going out at some point, I'd suggest always wearing open toed high heels for the comfort factor. As I mentioned before, our feet are generally wider than the typical female. Wearing pumps, that were designed for women's smaller toes for any period of time - will have you wincing with pain in a hurry.  One night on a dance floor in 6" pumps - and you'll lose all "feeling" in any area south of your ankle.

I wear them for certain looks in photo's - but beyond that - they collect dust on my shelves. I know a lot of girls who endure this pain with pride. I think open toe shoes look just as hot. Also, they show off your painted toes - which always looks fem.

"Thigh high" boots can be a lot of fun! However, you have to be really careful in terms of style and sizes, if you actually plan to wear them out at some point. First, stay away from the pointed toe versions. It is simply too much weight in the toe area for extended use.

Second, buy them a little "large" - and wear socks at your foot area. Even with a rounded toe, these rascals will quickly wear a blister on your foot, without some extra padding for protection. If at all possible, buy these in person where you can try them on first. They are much more difficult to find the "right" fit than regular shoes.

Once you're comfortable with knowing your size, you'll find some great heels on the Net. Included are a pair of links to places I buy a lot of my heels on line. In the "Atlanta, GA" section of my home page, you'll find the local shops where I purchase the balance of my strutting gear.

thou shalt "accessorize"

general accessories

Make no mistake about it - "accessories" will often pull your best outfits together. However, learning to "select" - and actually find accoutrements, which best show off your "look" - can be a real challenge. I'd suggest staying away from high-priced accessories. They are rarely worth the money - and you need to first learn the direction you are headed with your "style".

Wal-Mart and the other mass merchandisers are a better source for great accessories than you'd first think. By nature, mass merchandisers sell what sells well at specialty shops. They offer a decent selection of great accessories at prices you can live with. The only thing about "mass merc's" - is they tend to be much slower in adapting new "styles". They basically watch for items that specialty stores can't keep on the shelves - and add those same items much cheaper - later in the year. In other words - if large hoop style earrings become the rage at the specialty store - you'll find them at Wal-Mart for half the price next season - buy accordingly. *Smile*

purses & "wallets"

Your purse is a very important item. I buy mid-sized purses, as I tend to carry a lot of "touch up" supplies when I'm out - to keep Renee looking her best late into the evening. There is no hard and fast rule on the type of purse you carry. I prefer manageable "midsize" versions that don't give  me a workout from "carrying them" - yet can handle the arsenal of "stuff" I need while out. Color wise, I'd suggest one black and one white to start.

If you plan on going out to less t-friendly venues - I'd suggest you not "skimp" on the quality of your handbag. Women take their purses pretty seriously. Nothing will cause you to "stick out" - quite like donning a handbag that looks like a 16 year old girl's selection. "Quality" in this item - will enhance your overall "look" more than you'd first think.  

The "fashion police" say your purse must always match the color of your shoes and I'd agree they usually coordinate any outfit much better. However, they've yet to ticket me for failing to stay in this lane - so don't let them dictate your plans. Wal-Mart, Marshalls, TJ Max and the ilk - are great for finding nice purses. I'd also suggest looking at garage sales or thrift stores for "odd ball" colors you might need to match some particular outfits or shoes.

You'll also need a fem "wallet". I'm a bit pickier on this item since - I have a section I keep my "male" stuff, Renee's stuff, change, etc. Black is usually your best bet with this item.

necklaces

Necklaces offer a host of options. If you want to enhance the appearance of your cleavage, try wearing a very light weight chain necklace with a diamond pendant that falls right between your "tits". I almost always do this. ::)) The length and weight adds to the illusion. 

I personally like chokers of all varieties - as I find they tend to reduce the apparent width of my jaw, and cover my Adam's apple at the same time. However, I first made the mistake of buying them too "wide". In general, our jaws are thicker than our GG counterparts. I find a more slender chocker looks more feminine. You can purchase those slender rhinestone studded types you see in my photos at ForPlay - in every color under the rainbow.

If you want some really fabulous looking stuff - check out Ron's Rhinestones. Pretty impressive selection at reasonable prices. 

bracelets & rings

Wearing rings on all of your fingers will enhance your fem look as well. You will likely have trouble initially finding rings large enough for your index an middle fingers. I buy rings as I find them in specialty shops. They are one item you simply have to "pounce" on when you find the right look. 

For example, I was visiting Gatlinburg, TN this past summer and strolled into one of those many shops selling everything from t-shirts to jewelry - and found a huge selection of lovely rings in my sizes - for half what I see them priced in Atlanta. I think I bought about eight rings. It occurred to me their selection and prices were "right" - because they targeted elderly women - with "fingers" more my size.

Why did I buy so many? First, I like wearing rings on all my fingers - I feel it adds a nice "touch". Second, since I wear so many rings, I find a need different styles to match certain outfits - i.e.. yellow gold styles, white gold styles, diamond styles, etc. I think you'll enjoy having similar options on your phalanges. Give it a try. ::))  

Bracelets often get a little frustrating because the ones I love - rarely fit around my wrists. For "dressier" versions, I've found many of the "open at the base" types - will often make their way around my larger bones. On the "club gear" side - I've bought several from ForPlay in various colors with decorative diamonds (they match those chocker style necklaces) and I really like them. In general, stay away from thick styles and opt for more slender versions. The slimness tends to make your hands appear a bit smaller. 

Also - don't forget to buy a femme "watch" - ideally one in both white and yellow gold. I've bought all my watches mine from Wal-Mart. They look fine and are usually too buried under all my bracelets for me to care less about "brands". 

earrings

Stylish earrings are probably the toughest things to find, if you don't have pierced ears. Most of the "clip-ons" you see in stores look like they belong on "Aunt Bee"! 

Early on - I bought pretty much every pair of decent looking clip-on ear rings I could get my hands on. I often felt frustrated that my earrings seemed to add little to my overall look.

The Internet provides a world of options when it comes to finding clip-on earrings that will add pizzaz to your ensemble. 

 Specialty shops are great for earrings. I've found very few sites I like in the "jewelry" department on-line. However, I just made an earring purchase from both of these sites and was pleased - you might check them out! They're a little steep on pricing - but what a selection...

Ron's Rhinestones

Cheap Frills

If you're on a "tighter" budget, check out this place...

Wholesale Jewelry

I've also bought some of my favorites at the same place I buy most of my wigs. They just happen to sell great costume jewelry - as well as nice wigs. One thing that has helped is I have explained to this fine lady "what it is I'm looking for" - and she tends to try and buy items she feels confident I'll eventually purchase. (Hint, Hint)

Which style earring is right for you? If you are like pretty much every other t-girl on the planet - your face is slightly round or wide - relative to genetic girls. Damn that "male jaw", huh? *Smile* Thus, you want to wear earrings that are "long & slender". This style will assist in an illusion which helps narrow your face.

Some independent jewelry dealers (in the kiosks in malls) have a decent selection - and will convert the pierced type to "clip-on's" for a small fee. Just tell them your mom can't wear pierced earrings, if you're shy!!

You can also "convert" pierced earrings yourself. Most every large fabric store (Hancock, etc.) carries "earring clip attachments" in the "beads" section. 

They only cost about a dollar for "five" - and they come in a variety of styles and coloring. I'm no expert when it comes to fine "jewelling", so I tend to look for earrings with a large "backing" that I can simply cut off the post - and "super glue" the new clip on attachment. I'd suggest you tackle similarly simple projects on your own - and leave those little flimsy numbers to a professional jeweler. 

The only exception to this rule is the "hoop style" earrings - these are a cinch to do-it-yourself - and they look awesome. 

There is an attachment you can purchase which allows you to create a small "circle" which you can slide the bar which attaches on this type that makes for a very nice look. 

I think these provide the best look of all. You can buy the large and "cheap" versions - as you won't face the health concerns of "unsterilized" metal running through your ears. The length is nice in that it will "elongate" a round face. The cost of the pair of gold hoop earrings you see in the photo to the right - was less than $5.00 - including both the earrings & attachments. 

Try it - you'll see what I mean. ::))

hats

can't afford expensive hair styling? Try a fun hat!

White Cowboy

Black Bolero

Large White

Sex wig - wear a hat

Hats go in & out of style.

Don't let style affect your decisoion to wear them - they tend to look very good on us. They elongate the face.

One thing you have to learn "anew" - as a gal versus a guy - is that "belts" are a

belts

One thing you have to learn "anew" - as a gal versus a guy - is that "belts" are a decorative item. As a guy, we know them as a "device" - to hold our pants up. *Grin* My favorites are either "wide" and hanging - or sleek and slender.

You'll get great ideas in this area from women's fashion magazines. Look around to get a feel for how you might use different colors and shapes.

Don't discount what a belt can do for any outfit. I've had more than one "number" - that remained collecting dust in my closet - end up being a favorite outfit after I added that "just right" belt with it. 

fetish accessories

I sometimes enjoy wearing "fetish style" clothing - latex, leather, PVC, etc. I find there is nothing like the look of a "real bitch" to make any guy - feel like a real woman. ::)) Fetish outfits are one area where going "overboard" with accessories - is actually considered "normal". Problem is, the "extras" are often expensive - as Macy's - doesn't have a "Mistress" department. *Smile*

Fetish accessories are an area where your own creativity can pay big dividends. For example: I seriously doubt Wal-Mart ever imagined this $6.00 chain belt - would be holding my Dominatrix whip. If I bought the same item at a fetish-type shop, it would have cost four-times as much.

I'm also quite sure ACE hardware had no idea I'd be using my "colored chain link" to hold the whip - from my Wal-Mart belt. And there's no doubt in my mind the cute little check out gal at PetSmart had any idea I was going to use that dog collar as a thigh wrap - and as a holder for my favorite pair of handcuffs. *Grin*

I'm sure you're getting the idea. Look at "accessories" - everywhere you shop - for how they might make your favorite outfits more sleek and fun - affordably!

final notes  

Additional shopping "tips" - can be found via this link at Michelle's Mid Day Break. This is a great site to visit for many needs of new gals. 

More Shopping Tips

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