There are so many posts from people experiencing their first public appearance but - I'm sorry - here's another one.
I have dressed in private for so many years but knew that I was missing out - what stopped me? I think I was worried that someone would recognize me and also that I would be outed.
I avoided the first by travelling to another town and the second by saying to myself "so what?"
A friend helped me with fabulous makeup and made sure I looked alluring but not tarty - a lacey sleeveless top, shortish skirt, tan hose, heels and a nice wig - and I was away. The drive calmed me down and then I arrived at the CD meeting. I immediately felt at home and had a nice evening. On the drive home, I deliberately stopped at a service area for a coffee and enjoyed being with strangers who, whatever they thought, said nothing.
What did I gain? An evening of feeling beautiful, pretty and vulnerable plus a realization that I can carry this off and there is nothing to lose.
My advice is to enlist someone's help to look good as I have seen some frights out there!