Is dressing up a sexual thing or a sensual thing for you?

[Kassie]

I haven't felt the pink fog as much lately because I can't really dress in the mornings before work like I used to. But on the occasion I can, it starts out innocent enough. There have been times where I dress and I just feel cute and girly and content... But sometimes I get turned on and end up doing something about it by myself. I can't tell if it's because of a fetish or if it's just because I feel sexy compared to guy mode. It could be that it makes me feel girly to do "things" as a woman would? This is one thing that I'm somewhat shameful of and curious to know if others have experienced similar feelings or if I'm just perverted.

[Julie1123]

That sounds very similar to how it is for me and I've wondered the same thing about whether or not its a fetish.

I'm leaning more to the side of not a fetish due to becoming aroused after the fact of dressing and not becoming aroused every time.

[lmildcd]

Most of the time, crossdressing makes me fell better when I'm down in the dumps. There are times when crossdressing turns me on. I sometimes fantasize about sexual relationships with other crossdressers.

[Rachael Leigh]

Kassie for me I personally hate it when I get turned on by dressing because that's not my purpose when I dress, I'm getting
dressed to be dressed as I want to be. I use to think it was a fetish for me but I now know it's not it's just that's this is how
I choose to dress

[DIANEF]

Only in my earliest days of dressing was it a sexual thing, it soon became much more about expressing my female side and has been ever since.

[jack-ie]

For me, I think its some of both. I love to lounge, surf the net, etc. while Fem because I feel natural and it's relaxing for me (not sexual). Other times, there is no doubt that it's sexual. The truth is, I enjoy both so why worry myself with motives and/or guilt. Enjoy being yourself.

[Tracii G]

None of either for me its just clothes that reflect who I am.
Feel girly and do things a woman would?

[Stephanie47]

It could be neither. Different strokes for different folks! No pun intended or maybe so. Anyway, I think if a young boy had a tendency to wear women clothing or at least panties there would be some sexual component to it. Not having ready access to willing females generally leaves little choice. You have to take what's at hand. Masturbation among adult men is prevalent so I do not think wearing women's clothing may be an enhancer rather than a substitute for access to willing females.

I dabbled in my mother's lingerie draw because I was drawn to nylon. Slips and nightgowns were the entry way for me. I pretty much functioned without any assist from any female clothing. I never had the thought the clothes made me sexy. I would not characterize how I feel looking into the mirror over the years. I think attractive would be a more suitable term. I had no problem attracting the attention of young women in my youth or early adult life. Or, as my wife would also attest as she fought off gay men, it seems she noticed more than I certain men sought my six foot two, 175 pound, former military physique. I've always felt a lot better about my male physical image than the female reflection in the mirror. Although, I still enjoy the feel of those nylon slips and panties.

And, you should not feel shame or view yourself as perverted. I will offer, if anyone is getting more satisfaction from dressing up than getting it on with their wife, you may have issues in your marriage.

[Laura28]

When I was pre teen and and in my teens it was sexual I would say however it always felt right even back then. Now it is something i enjoy and relaxes me. It is part of me and a very important part of who I am. I wear panties and bra almost 100% of the time regardless of my outer dress. Were them reaffirms who I am.

[Elizabeth G]

It hasn't been sexual or sensual for me in quite sometime. It just makes me feel right.

[sometimes_miss]

It wasn't, it was, then it wasn't. Or so it seemed. Crossdressed at a young age, there was no sexual side to it. After puberty, EVERYTHING had a sexual side to it, including algebra (or maybe it was the hot chick in the next row of desks); but during that time, I would get dressed, and the sexual arousal was apparently not related to the clothes, I just experienced both at the same time. Later, after figuring this out, it was no longer connected.

[rockerreds]

Both- and more!

[Meghan4now]

I will admit, it does still hold a sensual component. But there is a lot more to it than that, and when I go out dressed, it is not for that reason. When in private, it sometimes still has that kind of appeal.

[prene]

For me it started out that way a sexual/sensual thing.
Now it is still that a very little.
But more it is just me now.

The clothing is so much more comfortable and fun.

[redtea]

Sexual for me, Though I can see it becoming an identity thing in the future. It's growing exponentially and it's becoming a problem with no solution.

[Ariana225]

I find it is both for me as well. My desire to dress is higher when I'm turned on, but when I get off I still want to reach into the panty drawer. When I want to dress just to dress I don't want the member to be sticking out saluting the world. Lol

[Becky Blue]

Totally sensual for me, started out sexual until age around 40 then literally overnight the sexual aspect went. Nowadays it is either sensual or simply relaxing has not been sexual for over 10 years.

[alwayshave]

Since I started way before I had any sexual thoughts, it wasn't always sexual. When puberty hit, it became very sexual. Now 40+ years later its just about contentment.

[leannejacobs]

Much like most here I found it quite sexual in the early stages of my dressing, these days not so much, it is more about the presentation and the de-stressing benefits.
However, there are still the odd occasions where I may get aroused, if I dress provocatively or my wife and I become intimate while I'm dressed.
It's not a bad thing so I wouldn't worry, I don't like to relate it to fetishism or anything sexual, it took me a while to convince my wife that it was neither of these.

[franlee]

Your question is limited to 2 aspects and that just begs for a conflict where there is none. Dressing is much more than that. But to make it easy to rationalize there is no reason to limit or worry about what it feels like because it is "yours." Just own it for what ever you care to and make the most of it. There is no shame in "feeling", that is subjective and personal.

[Alice Torn]

Stephanie, i sure see your point about men not having any female wife, or SO, to "do it " with. 63 here, and still alone. I do get a charge out of seeing the tall, attractive, leggy lady in the mirror, like the one i wish i had. Not every dress up session leads to a release, though. S i age, i have little sexual energy, even when i try! I sometimes feel guilty, but i tried for 43 years to find a mate, and my first girlfriend killed herself with drugs, and i never had the good income, to attract a mate. Many heartbreaking rejections. It is almost torture for a man to go without aq mate his whole life, and never have the real thing. My dressing is partly a substitute for the wife i never got to have, and partly other reasons.

[Alisonforme]

I used to think it was a fetish. Now I see it is a part of me that needs to breathe. The first time I put on a wig and makeup it became very different from a fetish and I feel something much stronger and deeper, spiritually speaking. It still has all the fun of a girly fetish too!!

[Lana Mae]

Not sexual at age 4-6, just wanted a dress like the girl down the street! Sexual in my teens and 20's! Sexual the 4-5 times I wore panties while married! Now just another part of me! Not sexual once again! Hugs Lana Mae

[Aunt Kelly]

Same story as many here. Dressing was a heavy turn-on when I was younger. Somewhere along the way it stopped being that. Can't say why or when. The desire has never gone away, just the nature of the experience. That's one of those "counselor questions" for when I finally get around to more serious examination of my TG nature.

[docrobbysherry]

What's the difference between sexuality and sensuality? Doesn't sensuality lead to sex?

Technically, if your nylons, heels, girdle, breast forms, etc. turn u on? That's a fetish.

If you're turned on by being dressed or your dressed image and not one item in particular, Blanchard termed it autogenaphilia, (sic).
I'm 70+ and have been dressing for nearly 20 years. Sherry still arouses me like nothing else!:o


It could be neither. Different strokes for different folks! No pun intended or maybe so. Anyway, I think if a young boy had a tendency to wear women clothing or at least panties there would be some sexual component to it. Not having ready access to willing females generally leaves little choice. You have to take what's at hand. Masturbation among adult men is prevalent so I do not think wearing women's clothing may be an enhancer rather than a substitute for access to willing females. ------------------------------------------
I'm not sure I know what mean, Steph? Even when I was married and before I dressed, I regularly masterbated to kinky female fantasies in the shower. The fact that I had a pretty woman handy for sex had nothing to do with it. Whatever arouses males, if they're in private, they tend to respond similarly. It has less to with substitution or enhancement than quite simply being aroused and having the opportunity for release! :D

[lingerieLiz]

I started young and before the concept of sex had hit me. I think it has always been choice of attire for me until I was in my early teens. Getting dressed with my sisters I suddenly felt sensual. The mood, the lingerie, the clothes and expectations of the evening. It reminded me of being among my aunts as they preened getting ready for their nights out in their slips. From that time on I think the getting dressed was an exciting and sensual thing. I spent a lot of thought and time figuring out what I would wear and making sure it was perfect. Checking the seams on my hose to getting the right length of slip to show just enough at the right moment.

[IleneD]

Yes........

[Nikkilovesdresses]

I certainly don't think you are perverted.

Getting in touch with your feminine side can be both liberating and confusing. Many here describe CDing as a comforting thing; an expression of becoming more whole. But plenty experience feelings of shame, normally because they were raised by people who disapproved of anything out of the norm.

Many of us started out associating CDing with arousal, but have found over the years that those feelings have lessened or disappeared; for some it will always be a turn on. You're somewhere on that spectrum, and you may find the feelings changing with time.

Bear in mind too that left to your own devices you would sometimes masturbate, regardless of how you're dressed- and would you feel ashamed of doing that? - I'm guessing not.

Go easy on yourself. CDing is not illegal, though it can have social or marital repercussions...

[Whinlatter]

Both for me, having said that I've not been dressing long.
I'm learning that even when doing some standard jobs around the house then to be dressed just feels fab, but I won't be dressed the whole 9 yards.
However, if dressing to spoil myself then there is definitely a sensual turning into a sexual side as it is likely that I'm choosing something more sexy to wear, and I love what I see in the mirror.

Stacey :)

[Fiona123]

Mostly an identity thing. It's also sensual.

[Viggy]

Both for me too, but at the beginning there was an overhang to sexual, this changes more and more to sensual.

[Kate Simmons]

These I don't think it's either one for myself really just a "me" thing. This is one way I express the feelings I have inside and it makes me feel satisfied in the process. :battingeyelashes::)

[wanda66]

In the beginning it always ended with sex ,as time went on it became less . Today there is a inter stratification that can only be achieved by releasing my inter self

[CarlaWestin]

Yes........

I was trying to figure out the best answer to this.

Thank you, Ilene.

[Angie G]

I'd like to say just Sensual but sometimes Fantasize of being with some one But that's not happening.:hugs:
Angie

[Tracy Ann]

When I started it was sexual. I used to have dreams when I was asleep of being with someone and my wife catching us. Never would happen in reality. Now it's only sensual.

[kimberly c]

Its both for me, love everything about being feminine

[Julia Welch]

Both for me ... It's a guaranteed erection whenever I dress, I love the feel of the lingerie, the skirt/dress swooshing as I walk and the click-clack of heels ... I still can't walk near a mirror without lifting my skirt ;)

[CONSUELO]

I began dressing, mostly in lingerie, well before I was 10 years old. My early sexual exploration was via dressing up and I did it a lot. Later in life the comfort aspect began to be important and just the pleasure of transforming oneself into a different and feminine-looking person. When dressed I feel very sensual and as the Doc says, sensuality begets sexual feelings.

[Robertacd]

I started dressing around age 10. When I was in my teens it was definitely a sexual thing. But I grew out of that in my 20's.

I remember there was a time after it quit "turning me on" that I wanted it to be a fettish so bad I would force myself to make it sexual, but I have long since come to terms with the woman inside.

[Alice B]

Both, but becoming more sensual than sexual

[Tahoegurl]

I think that it is just me...the sexual or sensual or both, is situational. When I am with my wife and she wants to be in control and I am dressed...it's sexual. When we are just hanging out it is sensual...I feel like we are trying to put ourselves in to a box.

[Stacy Darling]

I Guess that it is a personal thing!

Being a Sensual one, dressing is quite pleasurable!

Now, Sexually?

[Shely]

I'ts BOTH it starts out strictly sensual and when i see me in the mirror it turns sexual. I can't get over the sexual being in the mirror. I do really love the feel of the clothing though, when i get a full head of steamy nylons and sandes on though. It has got to be a combination of BOTH for me. :o

[LilSissyStevie]

There is a lot of shame associated with being sexually aroused by crossdressing or more generally "sexual arousal by the thought or image of oneself as a woman" AKA autogynephila (AGP). It's so shameful we will often go to any lengths to rationalize it as being something else. For instance, I started crossdressing when I was about 4 or 5 years old. I can rationalize that since I didn't know anything about sex that it was not sexual. But when I was the same age, I knew that I "liked" girls and that the feeling I got from girls was different from the feeling I got from boys. The nice fuzzy good feeling I got from girls was also similar to the feeling I got from dressing like and pretending I was a girl myself. The seeds of my future sexual orientation were already there. The argument that I was too young for it to be sexual doesn't hold water.

Now, I'm in my sixties and my libido has fallen of a cliff. The plumbing doesn't work too good anymore even if I am aroused mentally. If my wife and I would rather go out to dinner or a concert than rut all night like we used to, it doesn't mean that our relationship is no longer sexual. It is still rooted in sexual attraction even if we were to stop having sex altogether. Similarly, AGP is still the basis of my CDing even if I don't feel the need to spank the monkey and immediately rip the cloths off afterwards in shame and disgust like I did when I was younger. I can just bask in the glow of the nice fuzzy good feeling, instead. I don't have to rationalize about an inner woman or gender identity anymore. I just accept it for what it is: a sexual orientation that is a little bit unusual. Although, I have to admit that it was a lot more arousing when I believed my own BS about it.

The only sexual practices we need to worry about as perversions are those not between consenting adults. If you can only get sexually aroused when you're wearing scuba flippers, it's a little weird but it doesn't harm anybody. The only harm that comes from AGP or transvestic fetishism is due to denial, ignorance and misunderstanding, not the practice itself.

[Ressie]

Six of one, half a dozen of the other ;)

[Dana44]

According to a retirement book I have, men need to get off 21 times a month to keep your sex organ good. OH boy, dressing does not turn me on anymore but it is sensual.

[Donna St. Marten]

I would have to say sensual, as I find the sensation of wearing women's clothes more soothing than arousing. I just feels so right.

[Confucius]

As a teenager it used to be more sexual...
Now I'd say that it is sexual, but not just sexual.
It is sensual, but not just sensual.
I would definitely still crossdress even without the sexual and sensual.

I believe my brain is hardwired to release feel-good neurotransmitters (serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine, etc.) when I crossdress. It makes me feel happy. I love the feminine, and I enjoy identifying with it. I suppose that when I crossdress I am being authentic with how I feel, and how I want to be.

[ginapoodle]

Both for me, definitely...and evolved into Identity and balancing and wholeness...

[trixie lee]

Definitely both for me, part of being feminine!

[ronniegirl]

adding my 2 cents worth, I too get both a sexual and calming effect from crossdressing . Right now I am fully dressed after a horrendous day at work where if something could go wrong it did. So upon coming home I dressed and with a glass of white wine I am decompressing and relaxing..I wish I could explain why we get the calming effect we do from crossdressing but apparently a lot of us do..so I don't question it anymore..just go with the flow ...might even decide to go out for a walk later...

[Erin Lafleur]

Like many, I started sneaking panties and slips out of my mother's drawer and I couldn't have been more than 5 or 6 years old. I was obviously not sexualized at that age (had no idea what sex even was) but I do recall being physically stimulated by lingerie even at that age. I just knew that it felt wonderful.
In my later years it became much more of a sexual thing but that's not to say that I don't view it as a sensual thing as well (although admittedly I don't see a huge distinction). I still am attracted to the most feminine of lingerie... lots of lace, frills and pretty bows for this gal!

[Judy-Somthing]

OK this is a site where people share feelings and opinions, some are looking for answers, why!

For me when in my teens it felt (great) (so cool) (so natural) to dress up, and in most occasions yes, arousal and of course followed by shame.
Then in my twenties it was more of just seeing my fem self that was satisfying and no arousal!
Dressing went from once a week to once a month to one every six months and then almost 20 years no dressing.
Then after my grown children moved out and I had time on my hands I started thinking of dressing again!
Wow I still had a stash from almost twenty years ago and then the Pink Fog hit big time.
I worked hard to bring back the so-called Judy I remembered.

Yes I was happy with the look I got but was disappointed that no arousal was achieved but still it felt so cool wearing a dress.

At that point, four months ago I tried to tell the wife what I was up to, wearing dresses which didn't go well.
Well I haven't dressed in four months but I'm thinking of buying a dress so when I'm ready.
To be continued.

[Shelly Lynn]

For me it used to be more a sexual thing but now it just feels right to me to be Shelly I feel comfortable and good about myself being a woman. Everything is wonderful when dressed very happy.

[wendy]

In my early years of CDing, it was both sexual and sensual. Now that I'm older, the sexual/sensual aspect is still there but not as much. For me, it just feels right to express my feminine side while dressed.

[taruhhhh]

ive done tons of research on the topic and im pretty sure the feelings of sensuality arise from the same place as the feelings of sexuality, its how they are channeled that manifests whichever expression. after practicing abstinance for a while i experienced results that backed up my hypothesis so i recommend trying to abstain from the sexual aspects and embrace the other ones, if that sounds like something youd want to do of course. (:

[Lacy PJs]

It started as sexual for me and that is still probably the majority of my feelings. But lately, I've noticed that I'm more and more comfortable with leaving the clothes on afterwards... if that is appropriate, like a night gown or pajamas. So while sexual is still a part of dressing, it is growing beyond that as well.

Lacy PJs

[Tina_gm]

mostly relaxing, but also somewhat sensual, I enjoy the soft smooth feel. the lightness of women's clothing moreso than men's clothing. the typically more snug fit. Dressing doesn't do a thing for me sexually, the act of dressing, but after I have dressed, when I am feeling femininity in a more strong way it is easier for me to get aroused. Ive never really figured any of that out, It doesn't effect me directly but indirectly...

[Jenny22]

I, too, started wearing pretties way before I had any sexual thoughts. And even though I'd pencil trace women' figures from mom's magazines, it really wasn't sexual or even sensual, just curiosity. Then BANG!! Puberty hit, and everything seemed to become sexual, and it stayed mostly that way up to my aging point where my male biologics just stopped. Then, sensual. Now, I just enjoy being as pretty as I can.

[jacques]

hello,
my motivation has changed through my lifetime.
I started when I was young so it was about the feel of the clothing. After puberty it was a fetish. Now it is for relaxation and a deeper happiness.
luv J

[ginapoodle]

Kassie,

At this moment: fully dressed, expert makeup and wig...I just feel joyous. I feel pretty and confident and feminine. Words don't describe....had a bit of a cry after getting home and seeing myself...especially my gorgeous eyes....so happy....not sexual...just deep core authenticity.

[sometimes_miss]

According to a retirement book I have, men need to get off 21 times a month to keep your sex organ good. OH boy, dressing does not turn me on anymore but it is sensual.
Really? What book is that? I'm curious.


I wish I could explain why we get the calming effect we do from crossdressing but apparently a lot of us do.
We may subconsciously repress the desire to crossdress, which causes stress, but of course we're not aware of why we feel that way. So when we DO crossdress, we get relief of that stress, hence, feeling a sense of calmness.

[KymG]

Fully dressed it used to be sexual only. as time has gone on its become a mixture of both, but more sensual and less sexual.
Mainly relaxing above all else.

[StephanieM]

I think for most of us it starts off as a sexual thing then for some of us it turns out to be something else.
When I first started out I couldn't wear a pair a pair of panties without instantly being turned on. Now I rarely get turned on even when fully dressed.

[karynspanties]

Neither. I started wearing girls clothes (age 3) before I knew what sex was. I dress femme because I am transgendered.

[Barbara Jo]

FWIW......

Through the years, I have asked a few females about how they felt when dressed feminine and/or sexy .
They all said that it made them feel sensuousness and sexy, deepening of course what they wore but, skirts and dresses were said to be particularly sensuous.
Is that not what we feel?

Also, they said that are times when they do not feel like dressing feminine.
Again is that not how we feel?

The only difference is that we have a penis that can get hard but this is not that unlike a woman getting an erect little clit and getting a great felling down there about how she is dressed.

Granted, all females are are not the same and neither are all males the same.
However, a lot is made of the differences between the sexes but, not much is ever acknowledged about the similarities that can often exist. :)

[dynastycarol]

Dressing pretty turns me on, pretty high heels and sandals also,good manicures , pedicures,dresses,gowns, skirts and more.
I get a thrill out of looking good.
Being able to dance at a club as a go go dancer and show girl gives me a thrill I can't explain.

[Mollyanne]

I don't know if its the sexual part or the sensual part of dressing, but ALL I DO KNOW IS THAT I LIKE LOOKING AS FEMININE AS POSSIBLE AND I GET A FEELING OF CALM AND CONFIDENCE.

Mollyanne

[Jenniferpl]

When I was a teenager and early twenty's is was more of sexual thing but slowly evolved into sensual. These days it just seems right.

[Pinkthing]

For me it's definitely sexual. I tweek what I wear usually to my fetishes....fishnets, heels, silk etc. I absolutely LOVE dressing up& getting pics of myself. Wife has even agreed to take pics of me dressed up in a secluded area for my collection.

[cdveronica27]

Great way of describing it. Dressing up is both a sexual and sensual thing for me.

[TrishaLake]

as many have said , it is both for me. Yes there is a fetish component with sexuality, but I also sometimes just sleep in some female clothes and find them sensual. Over time it is a bit of all those things and something i must do.

[Jaylyn]

Can't say I started sensual or sexual, since my mom kept me in a dress almost the first year of my life. Dad put a stop to it. When I was in my middle teens I am sure it was sexual for pretending I was the girl making love to myself while I was looking at some old playboy magazines, this lasted till I feel in love for real and got married. I would sneak in my wife's makeup, hose, skirts and gowns. I told her and she was ok with it but reminded me she married the man. We played dress up every now n then till retirement. It was a sexual thing until the retirement years. Now it is sexual sometimes but I enjoy the sensual part more. Just getting dressed and relaxing and enjoying the feelings of the soft gowns, hose, panties, and makeup especially the dark red lipsticks on my lips. ( the lipstick can still make the dressing turn sexual especially if my wife applies mine on my lips and then hers) kissing another while both wearing lipstick is still hot sexually to me.

[Lindajane]

All the above, below.
For me its not that the dress itself is sexual or femine. Its more of an implied sexuality. The dress is not like a sock that is invisible to most people most of the time, the dress expects to be seen, it wants attention and forces people to make certain decisions, choices about the dress itself and the wearer. With the implied connotations of the dress and the general social expectation of gender roles, to see a male clothed in what is considered to be a female garment, confuses some people and they are caused to make descisions they are not prepared for and they are not informed enough to consider the complexities that created this situation, therefore giving the average viewer no solid base to make a logical descision about what they see. At this point most people use the fight or flight method, they either get offended or "ignore" what they see.

We do the same within ourselves.

To answer the question is wearing a dress a sexual thing, for me I would have to answer yes, is it a sensual thing, again yes. There are also psychological aspects as well. I feel great just wearing my dresses and not having any sexual thoughts, just being regular me like its perfectly normal, for me its just as natural as jeans and t. I admit there have been times when dressed that I have entertained homoerotic fantasies, I have strong desires to please a man sexually. Though I am not attracted to men, I would be ok with having one sexually while en femme. I would love to play out my sissy maid fantasies, being dominated by a strong woman and being " forced" to perform sexually for her in any way she directed me to. I love sissy maid uniforms and cant imagine wearing one and not wanting to sit on daddys lap.
Though I have never had any of this, it is fun to imagine. In reality I have considered the implications of having homosexual relationships when I only have those desires en femme, and am not attracted to men otherwise. I just cant work it out logically and I know its just a fantasy anyway but its fun. I do find some comfort knowing this will never happen. Still, the maid uniform, yummy...
Being honest with myself is something that helps me to understand me better. I dont always like the truths I find but its impossible to manage if its hidden or ignored.
Through all this I am still trying to find the real me

[ricki4678]

It is a Pavlo's Dog thing for me. When I started crossdressing it was in anticipation of sex. So it became that my sex life included wearing female lingerie and as time passed, female over-clothes. So now days when I dress, with no plans of sex, I automatically get sexually turned on.

[Barbara Jo]

Consider the following........

Dolly patron has said a few times that if she was not born a female, she would have been a drag queen as she loves everything feminine and the way feminine female clothes etc make her feel.. ..wigs dresses makeup fancy feminine underwear, etc .

I once knew a younger gal who did not even own any pants . She loved weaning pencil skirts. She confided in me that she loved the way they confined her legs.

So you can not lump all females together anymore than you can lump all CDs together. :)

Since both males and females are both human of course, they share-love much of the same sensations etc .
The position that females wear the clothes that they do just to attract men is just not true . :)

[jack-ie]

In my case, there is no doubt that early on just getting dressed was a turn on. At the very first, even panties were a turn on. Now it is something that I enjoy, feels natural and relaxing whether casually femme or full makeup/dress up.
Still, deep down the must be something more there. How many so called "normal" men own a pair of breast forms? :-)

[Leslie Mary S]

Of the two options, it is JUST sensual for me.
Sensual is more than the silky feeling on the skin. It is the swish of a skirt, the look in the mirror, the elevation from wearing heels, the change of your face with the application of make-up, even if it is a just flesh hue of lip-stick (Bright reds for me please, I do not like many of the other colors out there.) . it is there.

[Lacey New]

No question that it was nothing but sexual when I first tried on panties. And it remained that way for a long, long time. However, I guess it was akin to an addiction. Just like a heroin addict needs more dope to get high, I found that in addition to panties, adding a bra added to the excitement. Then it was adding more and varying pices of lingerie that made the experience even better. Of course, it eventually got to the curiosity of outerwear as well. So even today ,I still think there is a sexual component to my dressing but the excitement is not so much putting on a pair of panties and going out underdressed but it is more the act of dressing up that gets me going.

[Aleca]

For me it is both. Started out for years as a lust/ arousal thing, got worse and worse with that behavior that I sought treatment in SA and SAA 12 Step programs. Through that I surmised that was because I was in the closet too much - repressing too many feelings. As soon as I got out of the closet more and more, acting out behaviors dissappeared.

[Susan Smokes]

For me, it is both, sexual and sensual.

[Kayliedaskope]

+1 on the 'both' vote. I still get a nice little thrill sliding on some pretty panties.

[HollyGreene]

Just as many have mentioned on here, I sometimes get aroused by it, and other times I don't. I recently had the house to myself for three weeks, and for one of those weeks I was on vacation from work, so I spent most of the day dressed, and there was no sexual arousal from it. During that week I stripped out the bathroom and fitted a new bath and shower and tiled the walls, and in another room replaced a window with some doors, all while dressed. I just got on with my life as normal, but dressed.

[Emily Myers]

Personally I find it more therapeutic. I feel more like myself dressed as Emily rather than Adam. I feel more confident in myself when I can express my feminine side, and present in femme. I also just absolutely love women’s clothing! I dream of one day having a walk-in closet filled with clothes and tons of shoes! I feel so much more comfortable in denim shorty shorts, a cute top, and heels, than I do in cargo shorts and t shirts. I envy the way women can express themselves through their clothing. I love the feeling of looking like a pretty Emily, rather than a boyish Adam. I would say there is an underlying sense of sexual pleasure/empowerment, but I really just feel more comfortable, and more like my true self in femme, than in boys clothes. ✌️💖😁

[Maria 60]

In a percentage answer I would say it is a 70/30 split. 70% sexual and that 30% percent I just enjoy relaxing being dressed without a sexual thought and doesn't end in a sexual manner.

[halljennifer]

Sometimes I feel super sexy while wearing something feminine, and other times I feel comfortable. Earlier on in life I felt a rush while getting dressed, but now I feel a genuine sense of calmness and being able to relax. To quantity this in terms of numbers does not work for me personally, I think it has a lot to do with other life events, or day to day events that influence your response to dressing up, or other forms of release. Sometimes the sexual release will satisfy the immediate desire to be whole, but may leave a bit of depression later, whereas I find dressing for the sensual, takes a little longer to feel whole, but tends not to crater out so bad later. This is just what I feel.

😘 Jennifer

[karrin]

absolutely, positively, yes! :)

[Hollibelle]

For me it is both. I think the ssame xual side of it drew me back". I am gettng better are prlonging sessions when I have time to stay dressed for several hours.

[Bobbi46]

Neither, dressing is the completion of being able to feel feminine. To get up in the morning and dress in a nice skirt and blouse and all the rest is now just a normal thing to do.

[Teresa]

Kassie,
At your age I would definitely say it was much more sexual, that's the way it started for me at the age of 8-9 years and the feeling has never fully gone away . To me it's associated with AGP , the combination of females, clothing , dressing and sex all combined in my childhood , I describe it as a combination lock in my brain being set but the code to release it doesn't exist.

If at times it has that effect on you then you can do very little about it. I will admit I find it irritating and annoying at times , part of me is still a fully functioning male with certain needs so it's part of life that we shouldn't feel guilty about .

[Cherylgyno]

As a kid of 6 year's old it just felt good. When puberty hit it became a sexual thing. After college it was a combination. After getting married it became a natural feeling. It always has been and always will be a great feeling.

[Beauty Parlor Bev]

YES and YES!

[RachelCD4]

Definitely both for me.

[savannaxdrsser]

As with others here, it was sexual wearing female things and I thought that it may be a fetish, but something inside kept drawing me more and more to the idea that it is a part of me and that dressing is more than sexual. As the years have gone on, it has become more a feeling of release, a feeling of being pretty and attractive. When I take any pics, I always make them very feminine, I like seeing myself as female.

[Ressie]

To me, the word sensual is pretty much a euphemism of sexual.

sen·su·al
ˈsen(t)SH(o͞o)əl/
adjective
adjective: sensual
of or arousing gratification of the senses and physical, especially sexual, pleasure.

"the production of the ballet is sensual and passionate"


synonyms:
physical, carnal, bodily, fleshly, animal;

[Iris Tse]

Put me in the yes yes camp!

[EmilyByNight]

I'd say I lean heavily towards sensual. However, I have some narcissistic tendencies, and since I see Emily as someone separate from my male self... well as a man, I'm attracted to Enily. It's an acknowledged weird thing.

[PertyX]

It's definitely sexual for me. Wonderful and glamorous and exciting.

[Periwinkle]

It's not really sexual for me at all. My female persona must be asexual because even thinking about sex while crossdressing feels weird. Like, not good weird.

[Jayne44C]

It use to be a turn on up until I got into my mid-twenties. Since and including today it is definitely more of a sensual experience.

[CONSUELO]

The Doc is correct. Although sexual relates to all things to do with sex in its many manifestations, sensual has the following meaning - -of or arousing gratification of the senses and physical, especially sexual, pleasure.

I'm glad that many have pointed out that it is not something to feel guilty about. Whenever this subject comes up, somehow there is a subtle implication that dressing leading to sexual arousal is not such a good thing.
I have always had a wonderful sexual joy from dressing and I am lucky that unlike many of my age, I am physically able to take advantage of it.
I think the term " fetishistic transvestite" describes me well and I am happy to be one.

[xandralovesleather]

For me it is sexual, sensual and affirming of who I am.

[Lea]

When I was young it was part sexual. But going through puberty what isn't?

Now it gives me a since of completeness of who I am.

[laura.lapinski]

It is for me. I am turned on by seeing myself in a pretty sweater dress, or anything that makes me look femaleish, and have some vivid fantasies.

[Rebecca Star]

In my early years of CDing, it was both sexual and sensual. Now that I'm older, the sexual/sensual aspect is still there but not as much. For me, it just feels right to express my feminine side while dressed.

Was exactly the same for me.

Though, I always felt a little different to my male friends, just the way I processed thoughts etc. About 3 years ago, I was diagnosed with Klinefelter Syndrome (aka 47 XXY), and the pieces of the puzzle finally slotted together. While there are the negative aspects of having KS, the positives far outweigh the downside. One of which, I hardly grow any facial hair (only top lip and a bit on my chin, which only have to shave every 4 or 5 days, body hair is sparse too). The other plus, my breasts have grown slightly as I've got older (nothing like man boobs per se) definitely shaped like a female breast.

These days, I just accept that's me, and that's how it is. I guess you could say I share this body with both a male and female persona's. I'm cool with that!

[Sandra_Dodds]

Sensual, in the literal sense of how it makes me feel, without meaning sexual or aroused. I love the sensation of having my legs firmly encased in pantyhose.

[Jane G]

I enjoy cross dressing, it's part of who I am. If I get turned on well heck that's perfectly natural, enjoy it. It's not every thing, but it's sure fun when it happens. Just be genuine, be your self and get on with life.

[Tracy Ann]

100% percent just enjoy the comfort of woman's clothing without a sexual thought. I just wear the close. No Makeup or wigs. At my age sex is a rare thought.

[Krea]

It started with a certain sexual element for me. At first there was a bit of a thrill about putting on something different or "forbidden", but i soon discovered that wearing these clothes makes me feel happier and i enjoy the feel/fit of the clothes. I think they suit my short, skinny frame better.

[Vicky_Scot]

Little bit of both for me.

[yvette]

When I first started dressing in mom's clothes is was a combination of both. On the other hand there was also relief that it was my true self who did this.

[Faith Noel]

I agree with Lea. Now if I dress to go out, I would work so hard on my apperance, makeup, hair,ect. You just loose the sexual asspect of it. Ain't easy being a woman! Lol

[Ronnica]

Both for me, depends on my mood really

- - - Updated - - -

Both for me, depends on my mood really

[Vintage4sarah]

For me, whether it is sensual or sexual is connected. The sensual side of your appearance, the clothing, wig, make up and just being female can trigger the sexual side and that all goes hand and hand. When I am with other Tgirls in a group setting or out in public with a friend that total feeling that I get is very sensual and not at all sexual. There can also be those times when both merge to be a women with all of the attention it can attract.

[Barbara Jo]

Sensual and sexual feelings are related .

It's a given that we all often wear clothes that are sensuous.
This is particularity true for females who have always been allowed to were very sensuous clothes .
Females often try to find just the right clothes to make them feel feminine and yes, sexy.
The notion that females only wear feminine clothes to attract men is just plain BS.

Males are not immune to this either.
Males who dress in an ultra masculine manor to do whatever are doing so as it is stimulates their masculine urges and feelings .

Having said that.. not all males are the same and neither are all females.
However, we are all human and males and females both have a lot of the same urges to make then feel more like the sex that they are and enjoy being.
The key point is .... make them feel more like the sex that they enjoy being. :)

So, what is wrong with us enjoying sensuous clothes... no matter if you are M to F or F to M ? :)

[Dana44]

I love being feminine and when I dress it is sometimes sensual. but i like being feminine..

[Kelsey dresses]

Both ,however a calming thing also

[Nikki A.]

It may have started as sexual, moved on to the feel and freedom of the different options. At this point it just seems normal.
My thing is that if I do dress it is in a skirt or dress. I guess if I did it everyday then I would also add jeans to the wardrobe.

[kimberly c]

Hi it started as a sexual thing with all types of lingerie and now its just the normal way I dress.

[Cheryl T]

It's emotional for me.
When I was younger it was sexual and thrilling. It became sensual as the thrill dissipated and I reveled in feeling feminine and attractive.
Now it is emotional as I feel it allows me to express how I feel about myself.
As B.B.King said, "The thrill is gone", but the happiness and self worth remain.

[Jaymees22]

At first I thought it would be a sexual thing but then I found out it was something better my true self.

[MissAmber]

For me at first it was all sexual however as my dressing has progressed and I look more femme it's definitely not as sexual I just love looking femme now occasionally I do have those sexual feelings when I dress but I don't get hard and wet every time I put on panties anymore

[Leah Love]

It’s always been a very sexual thing for me. I’ve never had the desire to go out dressed up, it’s always been confined to the bedroom. Besides...it would be really awkward walking around in what was in my closet! I’ve never owned any lounging around clothes...it’s always been (for lack of a better word) ****ty clothes.

I’ve only dressed with a few people and it’s always ended the same way...intimate. When I’m dressed, I do take on the more feminine role as I enjoy the sensuality of the role reversal. I’m not attracted to men...well I’m not attracted to masculine men. I like others like myself...crossdressers and transgendered but I’ve only ever been with women.

For now...it’s a sexual thing, but that could change as I get older.

[Melissa Lange]

Gotta go with Ms. Tse here. Double yes!

[SaraLin]

I think I've finally come up with my answer to this question... For me, it's a little bit of both, but a lot of neither.
I'll explain.

(sensual) Yes, I like the feel of feminine clothing, The fabrics are smoother, softer, etc. But that's not really why I wear them.
(sexual) Yes, I feel more sexual when dressed, but it isn't the clothes themselves that do it for me. It's how I feel inside.

For me it's something else. It's being just a tiny bit closer to what (or where) I wish I could be. I'll give an analogy to to try to explain.

I'm sure pretty much all of have seen scenes on TV or the movies where a woman is missing her man (who is off to war or something) and she goes into the closet and gets out one of his shirts, smells it and puts it on. She isn't doing it for sexual or sensual reasons.
She's doing this so that inside her heart she can feel just a bit closer to him, and feel the love she has for him just a bit more.

For me it's similar to that. When I'm dressed, I feel just a bit closer to where I wish I could be. I feel the love for something that I can't really have. For a time, I'm a bit happier than my normal existence. It's bittersweet, but it's so much better than nothing - and I won't - no - I CAN'T give it up.

Of course that's just me...
SaraLin

[Robyn n TN]

Great question! When I started experimenting with wearing womens clothes it was very sexual. When I decided to get serious about dressing, when I bought my own clothes, breast forms, wigs and makeup, it has not been that sexual for me. It has been very sensual, I guess you would say. I love the way it makes me feel. While I do like to dress sexy I don't dress anyway that I wouldn't feel comfortable being out at a nice restaurant.

[Rayleen]

Sensual because in every move when dressed, I can feel my breast, soft clothe caress my body and my body feminise my brain.

[Kendalli]

It totally started out as a sexual fetish type thing for me. I know that I'm not as old as some of these ladies, but the sexual aspect has dwindled some over the years. The fabric definitely is what does it for me. I do want to be more of a girl all the time though and that feeling had only grown stronger with time.

[Robyn2006]

When I was a young teen and first trying on my mother's and sister's clothes and playing with their makeup, it was a huge, sexual thrill. There in front of my mother's dresser mirror, wearing all she had to offer, and putting on her lipstick... OMG, those was amazing, hormone-charged days. Now, like so many here have said, it's just who I am and, yes, quite senual.

[Kristy 56]

Sensual always. Sexual in that I feel very bi curious about what it would be like to be a total woman with a man. Other than that,can be dressed all day without a sexual thrill, but enjoying my femme side.

[debbie409]

while we all share the same general passion particular experiences are vastly different.
ditto robyn2006... i can identify with you early experience!

its still primarily sexual for me after nearly 40 years with a huge sensual component that has grown stronger over the years, the two work together to create the consummate experience. i definitely consider myself a heterosexual/fetishistic cross dresser primarily interested in vintage lingerie and foundation garments. when i was younger i could put on a girdle or slip alone and that would satisfy my urge. at this point in life its the whole ball of wax that excites me most, wig, makeup, heels, nails etc. looking in the mirror fully made up and dressed is both an incredible sexual turn on accompanied by an incredible sensual feeling.
every dressing session always ends with intense sexual gratification. when i am finished all my clothing gets hidden away until the next time i get a severe case of the "pink fog".

[Monique65]

Dressing started as a definite sexual arousal for me. These days, however, it evokes more of a calming or soothing feeling of inner peace. I'm finally being true to my authentic self, and that is much more rewarding than any physical relief I might get out of it.

[Kimmie WJ]

As mentioned in another thread, I am still a closet CD and somewhat new at it. It is comforting to know that others have the same feelings I have when dressing and the strong sexual aspect of it will abate over time. Right now I love the sensual feel of hosiery, microfiber panties and wearing skirts that show off my legs. Sexual tension is ridiculously high and look forward to just enjoying the apparel.