I see the term "passable" used on this forum frequently. I understand the term, I get it, and I recognize that some of us want to achieve as feminine an appearance as possible when we dress. I include myself in this category. But the fact of the matter is that I am a much better looking man than I am a woman. I will never be "passable." Although I acknowledge this, it does not prevent me from trying to appear as the best looking woman I can. It certainly does not take away from my own personal experience and the fulfillment I enjoy when dressed en femme. And I do take much pride in my ability to transform myself, despite my physical limitations.
But who exactly am I trying to impress? Am I trying to impress anybody at all? I am happily married, and would not do anything to jeopardize my marriage. I am also deeply in the closet. Even if I was not in the closet, I would never be mistaken for anything but a man dressed en femme. So I am clearly not trying to impress others. Am I trying to impress myself? Perhaps. It does bring me great joy, satisfaction, and a sense of "rightness" to look in the mirror, and see not a man, but instead the reflection of a woman. I am not "passable," I am closer to a "beast" than a "beauty," but for some reason, I do not care. I do the best I can, and I love what I do.
Given the frequent usage of the term "passable" on this forum, I am curious. Who are you trying to impress, if anybody, and for what reasons?