Should I say? If so What should I say?

[Raven Skyy]

I have a question that I've pondered for a while. I see individuals presenting as women in public, not always the best presentation but none the less they are in public, when I don't have the courage to do the same. Yet when I see them at times, I wish I could go up to them and acknowledge them for their courage and tell them I'm proud of them for being so brave.
My question is while I'm dressed in DRAB (supposedly an intimidating man) what I could say to acknowledge and support a fellow member of the sisterhood. Or should I say nothing and just leave well enough alone which is what I've done but just feels wrong to me!

[kimdl93]

I would not say anything.

[Sandi Beech]

Yes I agree normally nothing, but if something catches your attention that you like, a simple oh I love your nails etc should go over well. Just be honest and sincere. It works with women quite well. Just pick and choose something that feels right. Do not over do it.

Sandi

[Sherry Ann Evans]

I agree, don't say anything blunt, however little compliments are wonderful!

I go out on a regular basis and pass pretty well. Once in a while, people have said things that they meant well, but it didn't land well with me. For example -- one time a genetic woman CROSSED THE STREET just to walk up to me and say, "You look so put-together!" ... in her mind she was being awesome, but all I could think was, "So you could tell from all the way across the street that I'm a crossdresser?" ... whereas another time, a genetic woman simply asked me for directions, I provided that, and then she kind of looked me up and down, paused for a second, and said, "You've really got it going on!" ... which was authentic and made me smile.

[laurajade]

There have been times, when I was in drab, that I would see someone presenting male but they had painted nails or women's jewelry or were even wearing a skirt. I always want to say something to them and usually do, something like "I like your look. I appreciate people who aren't afraid to be unique" and leave it at that.

As far as someone presenting female but perhaps easily read, I think I would simply pass by and nod and say "Good day, miss" and let that be enough.

[audreyinalbany]

nope...don't say anything...its one thing if a compliment is coming from a GG, but coming from a guy I think it'd just be creepy

[GaleWarning]

Whenever I served an obviously crossdressed member of the public, when I was working in the OpShop, I treated them with the same courtesy and respect I would to any other member of the public. It is my humble opinion that most members of our group do not need/want to be brought into any spotlight but are quite content to be allowed by all and sundry to simply go about the business of their lives in peace.

We need neither vindication nor vilification.

[Kayy]

I have seen a few cds out in public, but I’ve never said anything, because I think it draws attention to the fact that they’ve been seen as different.

[SaraLin]

My opinion, for what it's worth, is this:
If you meet someone presenting as a woman, treat her like a woman.

Simple, right?

[Crissy 107]

I think it depends on the situation, where they are and how many people around. Normally I have said nothing but one time I was walking my pup at the park, the park was empty when I got there, I saw a GG and a CD having a good time sort of dancing around in the field not far away. I went on my walk and when I came back I saw them sitting at a picnic table talking. I yelled Hey, the GG said What in a sort of defensive way. I said I just want to say you both look beautiful. The GG said, in a very nice tone, Thanks we really appreciate that.
I was happy to give the compliment and think they were happy I said it.

[OrdinaryAverageGuy]

I won't comment on a woman's clothes or nails or makeup, because it would only sound weird at best and creepy at worst. I wouldn't think a crossdresser who is trying to pass would want that comment any more than a woman. BUT if it's a guy in a skirt, or with painted nails, or whatever, but obviously not trying to fool anyone, then I would think something like "love that look, wish I had the guts" would be appreciated? At least I would appreciate something like that if I was brave enough to go public in a skirt.