I have dressed for years. I enjoy the feeling of looking the way I feel. I will never pass as a GG, but I love the clothes. My late wife knew before we were married and we went to clubs in New York many years ago.
My current wife learned about my crossdressing after we were married and had a son. I recently came out now that our son is 10 years old and able to understand it. Our parents didn't like it, but most others don't mind or care. My wife said I should probably not dress in front of our parents, but we go in public together.
I never felt embarrassed in front of my SO's, but many of my friends chose to go public in front of strangers (anonymously) before sharing their femme side with girlfriends and/or spouses. Some are still in the closet, because they are not satisfied with their appearance. My wife has been helping CD friends choose clothes and makeup and gives makeup lessons! They share photos with other CDs and not always with girlfriends. Eventually, they may. It is about your own self-esteem or how you may think others will react to your appearance.
Maybe you are afraid your girlfriend may not find you attractive anymore. My wife treats Donna as a big sister who shares a room and closet with her. She does NOT have sex with Donna, just the man she married. Other people may have different reactions. Some girls may get turned on or turned off. Perhaps they should see other people's photos first to see how they react. My wife's hot CD friend Ashley became my friend at a very good time (just before I came out). She really helped us.
