Self-Consciousness

[Magickman]

When I first started to expand the horizons of my wardrobe, I was extremely self-conscious about it.

Will everyone notice my heelboots, I wondered.

Will people think badly of me, because I was wearing girl jeans.

What will be the response to my painted nails?

Would the man in the skirt get beat up?

All of my fears and concerns were unfounded. The people who commented usually were quite complimentary, and very nice.

After studying public response for a few years, I have concluded that most folks don't care. There are exceptions, but not problematic ones.

The big thing for a person dressing outside of gender assigned norms, is how you feel about yourself. If you are comfortable in your own skin, as well as in your clothes of choice, then dressing up is a positive and enjoyable experience.

I go out in public wearing skirts, skorts, short shorts, high heels, tank tops, earrings, tights, leggings, panty hose, etc. Nothing bad EVER happens to me. My outfits and accessories serve as conversational icebreakers, time and time again.

Many women compliment me, and a few men confide to me about some of their own experiences wearing unorthodox clothing.

My experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, even though a few folks are shocked at my style.

When you ditch your self-consciousness, and acquire some self-confidence instead, dressing however you like, is much easier and a lot more fun.

[charlie]

I am at long last agreeing with your sentiments! I used to be up tight and slightly on guard the whole time I went out. I still get the "Look at the Drag Queen" comments, but for the most part get smiles or no comments at all.

[tricia_uktv]

Yes, I agree. Enjoy!

[izzfan]

The last time I went out "en femme" was to an alternative night at one of the local clubs. I'd combed my (long) hair staight, put on a bit of make-up, a black velvet top, a calf-length black skirt, purple and black socks and a long sleeveless jacket (also black). I felt incredibly self-conscious and terrified - this is odd because I hardly ever notice other people's clothes but even though nobody probably even noticed me for most of the time, I felt like everyone was looking at me.

All the serenity I usually feel when crossdressing in private seemed to evaporate and was replaced with a nervous terror that no amount of drinks could quell. However, on the plus side, I did have quite an amusing conversation about my outfit with one of the few people who noticed it:

Him: Are you wearing a skirt?
Me: Yes, that's what I believe it's called.
Him: Why?
Me: Er.... I was feeling androgynous today, also it's really comfortable
Him: Comfort's not the point, you actually own dresses and skirts.
Me: Well, I didn't steal them if that's what you're asking.

This surprised me as I didn't know that I had the courage to talk about it so frankly. maybe I will be more confident in further outings, whenever they may be.

[sissystephanie]

When I first started to expand the horizons of my wardrobe, I was extremely self-conscious about it. The people who commented usually were quite complimentary, and very nice. There are exceptions, but not problematic ones.

The big thing for a person dressing outside of gender assigned norms, is how you feel about yourself. If you are comfortable in your own skin, as well as in your clothes of choice, then dressing up is a positive and enjoyable experience.

Nothing bad EVER happens to me. My outfits and accessories serve as conversational icebreakers, time and time again.

When you ditch your self-consciousness, and acquire some self-confidence instead, dressing however you like, is much easier and a lot more fun.

Magikman, You have really hit the nail on its head! I have been going out dressed, but looking like the man that I am, for over 4 years now. I have even gone to the doctor dressed! If one is self-confident instead of self-conscious, you will find nobody really cares. Sure, you may get some funny looks, but who cares? When people ask why I am dressed like I am, I just tell them, "I am a crossdresser and like to wear womens clothes!" Which is certainly the truth! The usual response is, "Oh, O.K."

[Rebecca Jackson]

I completely agree; not being so self-conscious is critical when going out. I think we sometimes out ourselves by looking and acting so nervous and uncomfortable. Self-confidence is so important, but unfortunately it can be one of the hardest things for many of us to get.

[boy2girl31]

I not only agree with your post but have to say that your message is very positive and I love it. Keep up with what you are doing.