I feel your pain! Oh yes; it was difficult the first few times. I mostly shop at thrift stores. But years ago at Big Lots, a customer with her daughter in line behind me said, "I hope that's not for you." referring to the Vasserette padded bra I was holding, (36-B). I was starting to sweat--but i managed to blurt out, "Its for me. Hope it fits." After checkout she asked If I did drag shows or sing on stage.
Also, I have told cashier girls I was a crossdresser, actually one didn't believe me. Another said, "What's a crossdresser?"
In recent years, I usually say nothing--or--if the girl gives me a friendly smile or knowing look, I tell them I am a crossdresser and, "Hope it fits." or some such comment. Conservative religious thrifts. Maybe.
