How do I move to the next level?

[jamiecd636]

I really want to move to the next level with my CDing. I have mastered the art of shopping, the next level for me means makeup. I don't mean going to a drug store or discount store but going to some place like Ulta or Sephora for advise and or makeover.

I'm just not sure if I have the courage to do it. Any advice?

[Erica Marie]

It may be poor advice because I myself have only been out once. With the second coming in a few weeks. All I can say is pick out an outfit you like and head out the door.

[robindee36]

Jamie, it is that fortuitous time of the year for CD's called Halloween. Head out to a good quality salon like you have already mentioned and have at it.

If there is any trepidation on your part, just remember, its for your costume and you want to look really nice. The staff will understand, I am sure.

Have a great time.

Hugs, Robin

[celeste26]

Jamie just remember that the worst part is between your ears. Nearly everyone is far too involved in their own stuff to bother with a cross dressing person in the next car. Even when they clock you and call you sir, it doesn't mean much. Just keep your head up and a smile on your face and things will go great.

[michelleddg]

I think a wonderful way to take it to the next level is to schedule a professional makeover. You get to see your ultimate potential, you learn tons, you have a blast, and it's a great way to practice overcoming the jitters. My go to is MAC, read all about it here:

http://www.crossdressers.com/forums/showthread.php?183437-MAC-Makeover-Primer&highlight=

Hugs, Michelle

[Launa]

I'm just not sure if I have the courage to do it. Any advice?

Yes you do have the courage. Just make an appt with a makeup artist like everyone says and walk into that appointment as if you own the place and things will go better than you ever thought they could!

[Jamie Christopher]

Jamie:

You could go to a makeup counter in one of the better stores, and strike up a conversation with one of the SAs. I did in drab, decided on the Clinique counter, and told her I just love all things feminine, and want to get better at makeup; she will love it, and ask her to help you find a foundation shade that would work for you, and that you want to learn; she can do a lot without much fuss, and you are on your way!

[PaulaQ]

Both Ulta and Sephora are awesome and will be VERY accepting of you. Feel free to go en femme or en drab. Call them first to schedule an appointment. I go to Sephora all the time, and they are incredibly welcoming to CD / TG / TS. They are happy to work with you to help you conceal beard shadow, teach you to apply makeup, help you choose product. The booked appointments aren't totally necessary, at least at Sephora, but you can get a lot of personal attention if you book one. (Like 1.5 - 2 hours with a makeup artist.)

I haven't shopped Ulta myself, but I have friends who have, and it is also VERY welcoming. They love us! The hardest part will be not spending all your money on designer makeup1 (Give 'em some ideas of your budget. :)) If you are shy, tell 'em that when you call, and generally they can make some accommodation for you.

Best of luck, and I hope you find the courage to go forward with it - it is so worth it.

[Sometimes Steffi]

I've been to Ulta numerous times, both en homme and en femme, and they're welcoming either way.

The first time I went, I told them that I was going to the Renaissance Faire as a wench, and I needed some makeup. The SA said I could take you up back for the expensive makeup, or we could just go to the racks and pick up some less expensive (read drug store brand) makeup. She said if you're just doing this once, just go for the cheaper stuff, and I did. I got foundation, powder, mascara, eye liner, eye shadow and lipstick, and I was all set for the Ren Faire. I really went to the Ren Faire.

The next time I got matched for dermablend concealer. Since it's like $30 for a small jar, I got several colors applied to my face. This not quite in the middle of the store, but close to it. (I was en homme, again.)

I've gone a couple times en femme to get gift with purchase. One time on a Saturday, they were so busy, it was hard to get an SA. So, I left and returned the next day en homme, close to closing when they wouldn't be that busy.

My first venture into Sephora, was not that good. They looked at me like I was a freak when I told them that I wanted makeup for me. I kind of beat a hasty retreat. I've been in since, but I'm always on pins and needles.

I also scheduled a makeup lesson at MAC, in a private room. It cost $100, but it was great, and I learned a lot. I really need to go in for a refresher course

Best thing is to get an actual makeover. I went to Amanda in Bethlehem PA and to Vanity in Houston. That's what to do if you want to see how beautiful you can look. Not inexpensive, but worth exery penny.

My profile pic is from Amanda's makeover. There are a lot of "Amanda's Girls" here.

When you go to a makeup store, be confident, or at least pretend to be. A cover story like Halloween may help you get your confidence up.

[lisalove]

When your boys drop, and you say what the "F" do I care what anyone has to say. You will do what you need to do to be YOU!
Untill then let society tell you who and what you should be/do! YES I mean that sarcastically.

[~Joanne~]

Just to get the experience, Use the Halloween excuse. Go to the place of your choice fully dressed minus the makeup and tell them you have a party to go to and originally were going to use a mask but couldn't breathe it in and ask her if she can pull off a miracle. Yes, some here will tell you that it is lame to do but there's nothing wrong with taking baby steps and using the holiday as a crutch. I was going to do this last year myself but time and funds became an issue. this year.....who knows. Maybe I'll go in and tell the girl last year I got cold feet and this year I put some hose on ;)

[Brooklyn]

Having the courage to do stuff like that IS the next level. Anyway, you don't have to go en femme. Just tell them you are a CDer or Trans or whatever; makeup artists LOVE doing transformations because of the challenge. IMO, in general, the artists at MAC are best; Sephora has the best product selection, and Ulta is the least expensive. Hang onto your wallet and have fun.

[Michelle789]

I'm definitely ready for makeup lessons, including how to conceal my beard. Can anyone recommend a good Sephora or MAC in the Studio City/Sherman Oaks area of Los Angeles? Preferably one with a private room?

[Beverley Sims]

Use Halloween as crutch and go to one of the make up clinics in the department stores.

[JamieTG]

If you have a Merle Norman studio in your town they work with CDs all the time. They also have a back room for privacy.