I'm finally alive from the neck up

[Lisa Gerrie]

I re-introduced my facial skin to sunlight about ten days ago. After 25 years, it was Bye Bye, Beardie. So I am -- suddenly -- no longer a Below The Neck crossdresser. I never really paid much attention before but DANG a lot goes on up here!

I like to present as just another woman, so I want to start with very simple makeup, costume jewelry, etc. My hair is getting long enough to play with, so I don't plan to buy a wig right away. I have lipstick figured out well enough for now, and I own some clip-on earrings and various hair thingies. Beard cover of some sort is next, now that my skin is getting used to the scraping.

I have a naked canvas in front of me. What, for you, are the most important feminine elements above (and including) the neck?

[Mollyanne]

A warm smile with full make-up done professionally!!!!!!

Molly

[MsRenee]

A smile will brighten anyones day.
Dont forget the eyes, they will say hello.
Renee

[Lisa Gerrie]

It's the length of the list that prompted my question: hairstyle, facial scrub, foundation/cover, shading, blush, powder, eyebrows, eyelashes, lipstick... earrings, necklace, scarf, glasses, hair accessories, hats? Additions to that list would be helpful at this point, I'm sure its not complete. And all focused in a small area.

I have read Hannah G's posts (love the daily cartoons) about her wig making such a huge difference. I'm looking for items that make the biggest difference to folks with experience. I have been dressing since puberty, but I am also starting from zero here. Even specific product recommendations would be appreciated, keeping in mind that I'm on a budget and want to look like a normal everyday woman, not like I'm perpetually ready for the Christmas Party.

[MsRenee]

The biggest item your gonna buy will be your wig as far as the biggest impression.
Ive hit 2 stores here in town the past week looking for a new style.
I find it to be the hardest item to choose. I did find one Im leaning towards but its the price of $225 thats holding me back.
One thing I didnt see on your list is a facial moisturizer, I would definately add that.
Renee

[Beverley Sims]

A good wig is a biggie for me.
Facial makeup also goes a loong way.

[AmyGaleRT]

Get some inexpensive makeup from the drugstore or dollar store to practice with; you certainly don't need to be dropping the money on MAC when you don't know what you're doing yet! ;) Get the full ensemble, in several different shades if you can, so you get some idea what looks good on you. I first learned about proper shaving technique (http://nancywichmann.com/shaving_crossdresser.html) and the complete makeup sequence (http://nancywichmann.com/makeup_crossdresser.html) from another crossdresser's Web page (linked), and I went step-by-step the first few times. Later, as I gained experience and confidence, and learned more of what works on me, I was able to simplify the sequence a bit.

I wear my own hair, as you intend to, so I can't advise you on wigs. But, for me, one of the most feminine things I put on as part of the transformation process is my earrings. I don't have piercings, so I have to wear clips, but there are places to get some really pretty clip earrings. This store (http://www.make-me-beautiful.co.uk/) is a good example, and they also sell through Amazon. In addition, I do buy some regular earrings, from Walmart or other places, then use simple clip converters (available here (http://www.carolwrightgifts.com/Womens-Apparel/Jewelry-Watches/Pierced-Earrings-Converter/60917.cfm), among other places) to turn them into earrings I can wear.

Good luck, girlfriend! :)

- Amy

[Angela Campbell]

As far as the makeup goes it is the eyes and eyebrows that give the most effect. Of course that will not matter if the beard isn't covered well. Other than makeup and the already mentioned wig / hair...I would say earrings! They seem to complete the look and yell out "feminine" !

Start practicing the makeup. It takes a lot of practice to get it even halfway decent.

[mmarmstrong]

.... I first learned about proper shaving technique (http://nancywichmann.com/shaving_crossdresser.html) and the complete makeup sequence (http://nancywichmann.com/makeup_crossdresser.html) from another crossdresser's Web page (linked), and I went step-by-step the first few times....

These pages have a lot of great info!!!

[BLUE ORCHID]

Start with a good base coat / foundation.

[DianeDeBris]

It's like getting to Carnegie Hall - practice, practice, practice.