Tips
Nails: Can't wear long nails on a day to day basis, tired of the fake pads that have all your nails in your purse by the end of the night, don't want the pain and mess of trying to get nails off you have glued on? Well try this trick. Coat your nails with Elmer's white glue then use regular nail glue to put your fakes on. They stay on tight but still will come off and are easy to clean up.
Shoes: The best fit and most consistent fit I have ever had from shoes are at Payless Shoe Source. Size 12W fits me perfect every time in every style. The local Payless is very TG friendly so I have no problem trying on new shoes there but if you are shy you can buy on line at http://www.payless.com/
Breasts: I am sure you have all seen the adds on TG sites for silicon breasts and freaked out over the prices. Well all I can say is shop around. Silicone breast enhancers are available at JC Penny's for under $50 and they also carry foam breasts for around $10 for a package of 6. If you must have full silicon breast then contact me. I have full silicone breasts starting at $139 as well as nipples, hip pads ect.
Don't be afraid to check out the regular online catalogues as they often have lower prices then many TG sites..
Makeup: Experiment, experiment experiment. Remember we have to usually learn without the benefit of a professional makeup artist (I got lucky). Also I found the Cosmopolitan Virtual Makeover program to be a great help. Even if you have a woman around to help you with makeup.. what works on her will usually not work for you.. We need to use a much heavier foundation and require more contour work then most women. Good news. I am now a Jafra Cosmetics rep so you can order from me. I can do a photo makeover for you so you will see what colors work best. Want to be a Jafra rep, well get in contact with me and we can arrange that to. Comming soon my Jafra Page.
Clothing: I know the 1st instinct is to go for mini skirts, sheer blouses and 6" heels. This is a lot of fun and does have it place. I have several trash outfits myself. But if you want to pass remember that you need to dress for the occasion and your age. Most women don't shop in a black leather mini and it is rare to see a woman in her 40's in a see through blouse. Pick up some slacks (yes I said slacks) and don't be afraid to use one of your own gender neutral T-shirts. Also a must for serious cross dressers is a nice business outfit and some nice evening wear. Remember real women don't wear trash all the time. If you are on a limited budget (aren't most of us) you can find very nice cloths at thrift stores. Some of my favorites are Catholic Charities and Deseret Ind. Many of my outfits cost as little as $1 and in some cases were brand new. At those prices you can toss them out or give them to a needy cross dresser if they don't fit right. But if you have the money and are not shy.. well go into the shops at the malls. You will be suprised how many of them are willing to help you. After all your money is green too.