Beginners Luck: How to Start Building A Wardrobe Actually this isn't just for beginners. Jessica Brandon takes you through the early steps of creating your look with some rock solid tips on what you need to do first. Written in a friendly easy style you're sure to enjoy.
Beginner's Luck: Makeup How much makeup should you own and which tools should you buy to apply it? Jessica Brandon offers up some ideas for saving money and for getting the most out of your cosmetics purchases.
Beginners Luck: Part 2 Jessica Brandon takes us further into the Shopping experience. You should read this whether you're building a new wardrobe (again) or simply adding to the existing pile (like me!) Does this lady know how to shop or what!? This time you might want to be a
Beginners Luck: Part 3 Accessories make the outfit or so it is said. In this installment of Shopping 101 Jessica Brandon takes us through the basics from the inside to the outside.
Beginners Luck: Part 4 In her final chapter on shopping basics Jessica Brandon gives you solid information on how to accessorize your look with jewelry and hosiery. It's not complicated in fact simplicity is the real key to a pulled together look.
Beginners Luck: Part 7 You've got all this stuff. Were do you put all this stuff? Storing stuff is as important as purchasing stuff. So this month Jessica shares with us some tips on where to put things when you're not using them. Including the all important family jewels.
Beginner's Luck: Wigs and Coats Jessica Brandon tells you how to buy these two important items without destroying your bank balance. Well written and lively with good tips from someone who knows how to get the most for her money.
By The Book Jessica Brandon reviews some of the better and more interesting clothes catalogues for you and has included a way to get them. A well-done article by a great shopper who knows how to find bargains and still be in style. Ever wonder where you can find a bra with water-filled pads? She'll tell you...
Checks and Balances How do you budget for two or more wardrobes? When do you know what you've found something you MUST have or something that's just a luxury? Jessica Brandon has some sage ideas for you if your finding money getting a bit tight on those shopping outtings.
Don't Be Blue On Black Friday The biggest shopping day of the year is coming up very soon and Jessica Brandon has some very very smart ideas for being a wise shopper. Things can get very crazy with everyone scrambling for bargains so it pays to know what you want to do ahead of time.
Look Mommy! There's A Man In The Ladies' Undies! Jessica Brandon our bachelorette of shopping often has to shop in her male personna when looking for women's clothes. A funny and too-real article by a lady with a lot of sparkle in her eyes.
On the Right Road for Cosmetics Jessica Brandon brings you some really excellent information about where to buy your cosmetics and why. Drug store stuff is inexpensive but there are real disadvantages to using inexpensive cosmetics she says.
Shopping 101 this month is dedicated to the proposition that money talks and no crossdresser should walk out of the store without the purchases she wishes to make. Jessica Brandon remembers the bad old days when she was afraid to buy women's clothing and makeup at the mall. Wouldn't the Gender Police be called if she bought a dress while dressed as a guy? That's the way many folks still feel. If you're one of them don't miss Shopping 101 Tales From The Counters.
Shopping 101 with our latest addition to the writing stable Jessica Brandon. Have you ever looked up at the celing in a department store? If not you're in for a surprise! Guess who's watching?
Shopping 101: Big Can Be Beautiful Our own stylishly attired Jessica Brandon takes us on a stroll through the Women's Department. Are you totally clueless about the difference in sizes between Women's and Misses? Miss Brandon is here this month to help you out
Tall Girls' Clothes's Shopping It can be a real pain finding clothes that fit particularly if you aren't in the "Misses" range. But there are plenty of options and ways to get around this plus get some great clothes that will make the little ladies envious! By Jessica Brandon
Tall Story Are you a bit overblessed vertically? A touch taller than average? You'll appreciate Jessica Brandon sharing her shopping finds for the tall crossdresser that you can use right now.
Ten Commandents of Shopping A plague of locusts will beset you if you don't follow the Commandments. Even worse you may have to listen to a Charlton Heston bible tape! Save yourself before it's too late and read Jessica Brandon's great tips for wise shopping and saving money.
Roberta Angela Dee's Beauty & Style Tips
Before Makeup Roberta Angela Dee has some very useful ideas on maintaining beautiful skin for people of all skin colors and types. A good skin care routine can really make a difference!
Beware of Online Advisors! Women of color should be very cautious about taking advise from online advisors particularly when it comes to issues like electrolysis and skin reactions. By Roberta Angela Dee.
Caution: Alpha Hydroxy Acids In Cosmetics The wonder skin creme of the mid-90s is now being used in all kinds of cosmetics and questions are being raised about dangers. By Roberta Angela Dee.
Caution: Online Medical Advice There are people on-line who give medical advice solely based on personal experience. They have never had a day of formal medical training nor do they have any idea of the medical history of the individual to whom they offer advice. By Roberta Angela Dee
Diary On Beauty: Getting Hip Presenting a realistic feminine image is all in the details. That and knowing a few tricks of the trade.
Dressing to Suit Your Figure Roberta Angela Dee tells us that it's not the size of the package it's how you wrap it. Don't worry about your dress size. With Roberta's helpful tips you'll be able to figure out how to flatter your figure no matter what your body type. Plus helpful hints on how to hide those little defects that plague almost all of us at least every now and then. Particularly after chocolate binges.
Five Hot Voice Tricks Roberta Angela Dee continues her series on voice training with some great ideas for modifying your voice without spending a lot of money.
Foods For A Girlish Figure A truly useful article that provides quick easy food choices that are tasty and help us stay young. Keep this one it is a classic. By Roberta Angela Dee.
How to Get Rid of That Facial Hair! Roberta Angela Dee takes us on a shaving saga in this month's installment. How do you get the shrubbery off of face? Ms. Dee has hints and tips for everyone from the electric razor users to the double blade types. It's hair today gone tomorrow with these tips and hints to get your face as smooth as Elle McPherson's before your foundation goes on.
La Derriere it's about proportions ladies. In this well-done column Roberta Angela Dee describes the true proportions needed for the ideal female shape and why it's hard for males to mimic them especially the backside. However there is hope and Roberta has some exce
Mechanics of Beauty The holidays are upon us (including a party or two) so Roberta Angela Dee answers some of the most commonly asked questions about the Mechanics of Beauty. I suspect there'll be a tip or two in here that you could use.
More Beauty Tips from Roberta Angela Dee. This time she discusses selecting the correct wig.
Roberta's Beauty Tips: Beautiful Eyes Learn some excellent tips to more attractive eyes from someone who knows how to look great. Roberta Angela Dee's tips are always helpful - and useful.
Stay Sweet, Girls Information and ideas about alphahydroxy acids. What they can, and cannot, do for you. By Roberta Angela Dee.
The Corset A friend who knows her well gives Roberta Angela Dee a very special surprise to mark her 15th year living full-time.
The Corset and the Waist One reason so many cross dressers fail to "pass" in public is that they don't appreciate the importance of presenting a physical proportion that is feminine. The key is proportion and you can do it with very inexpensive body shapers as Roberta Angela Dee explains in this most readable and most informative article.
Twenty Ways To Look More Beautiful A delightful column by Roberta Angela Dee that goes beyond the mechanics of a pretty look. Her ideas are practical sound and reminders of things we can do to look better that last longer than anything from a bottle.
Voice Training Roberta Angela Dee has some no nonsense ideas about training your voice to be more feminine. Solid tips in this very good "how to".
Diane Hutchinson's Beginner's Tips
Talking To My Friends Diane Hutchinson could no longer pretend to her friends that she was just "one of the guys". In a powerful letter to her two best friends Diane explains to them in very clear language what it is to be transgender. Well worth reading.
Makeup Tips for 1999 This month Diane Hutchinson shares some of her tips and tricks for the makeup artist in all of us. So get your brushes ready and
Coming out to Mom Diane Hutchinson has a new photo for her column this month. As if that's not reason enough to visit her topic is the very scary idea of coming out to your mother. Mom was one of our strongest feminine influences. How will she take to the idea that her strong handsome son is happy looking like her daughter? Join Diane as she comes out to her mother and see how the ordeal goes.
Beginners Help: What to Do Early On When you're just starting out it is helpful to have a few signposts and advice from people who have been there before. This month Diane Hutchinson discusses some of the basic issues you'll confront when you first venture out of the closet as well as providing some very basic practical advice on the products you'll need to get started.
Passing Is Possible: Follow The Women Getting over in the real world means doing a little research. Just what are the women wearing at the mall in the afternoon? How about at night. There are differences. Is your voice really making it? And are you still putting your hands on your hips a la
Reaching and Maintaining a Healthy Weight The rules are pretty basic simple even. But really losing weight and keeping it off takes a commitment. You DO want to fit into a size 12 don't you? By Diane Hutchinson.
The Beginner's Guide To Crossdressing continues to school us on a topic that's always on the mind of most women—weight control. Diane Hutchinson gives usa list of weight control tips that work for her and just might help you drop a dress size or two. Put down that bag of chips and get the tips.
Trying to Turn Hate into Understanding If you've got your own web site then you're probably no stranger to some hate mail. What would you do if the mail came from a family member? Diane Hutchinson tries to turn a bad situation around and defuse an ugly mess.
Crossdressing and Bathrooms a Dangerous Combination? You're out in public while dressed and one too many diet soda's have worked their way through your system. Whatcha gonna do hotshot? Read Diane Hutchinson's sensible advice for those who may and do find themselves gathering the courage to open the right door.
How to Meet Women and Influence People.....While Crossdressed! Will our heroine find everlasting love while crossdressed? Diane Hutchinson certainly has and is willing to reveal the secrets in her "tell all" column about how she met a wonderful woman en femme. You can do it too.
Cosmetics
Woman's Touch: Halloween Look may be all it takes to get you out in a dress this Halloween. It's a night for spooky scary fun and maybe you should consider using it to take yourself outside the closet and into the world... with none of the usual concern for the consequences of your feminine frolic. Wendy has some suggestions on how to make your fantasies a reality on the crossdresser's holy day of obligation.
Woman's Touch: Tips Wendy Farrell shares more good advice on how to work on your makeup. This information comes from a professional "in the biz" and she is sharing some of her most important secrets with us again this month!
Andrea's Makeup Lesson 3: Contouring Techniques and tricks for reshaping a less than ideal face. Simple and smart these are ideas you can use for a lifetime of beauty
Andrea's Makeup Lesson 4: Foundation Andrea York continues her marvelous makeup lessons with discussion of finding the right foundation for you. Smart and easy.
Andrea's Makeup Lesson 5: Undertones Makeup expert Andrea York discusses the importance of know what your real skin tones are in putting together that perfect look.
Andrea's Makeup Lesson 6: Eyeshadow Cosmetologist Andrea York helps you to make up your eyes beautifully and simply in another of her terrific articles on looking your best.
Beautiful Brows set the stage for your makeup strategy. We often struggle with eyebrows but it isn't that hard to figure out how to have ones that look great tonight and won't raise any tomorrow. By Cindy Martin
Blusher: Easy To Do Right...and Wrong Transgenders seem to have more trouble with their cheek color than any other part of their makeup scheme. It isn't that hard but you do have a lot of options.
Cosmetics Don't Cause Acne New research indicates that there are a lot of myths about modern cosmetics that don't hold up anymore. Oil based cosmetics which many of us use to cover problem skin and beards are not necessarily bad for you at all.
Cosmetics Don't Cause Acne New research indicates that there are a lot of myths about modern cosmetics that don't hold up anymore. Oil based cosmetics which many of us use to cover problem skin and beards are not necessarily bad for you at all.
Dark Red Please Our Stacy Clement reports on an enjoyable trip to the manicurist for the kind of pampering a lot of us wouldn't mind. Okay it's vicarious pleasure but even if we can't be there it's still fun!
Eyebrow Tutorial: Animated! A fabulous tutorial on doing your brows. Plus: a Shockwave Animation! Enjoy the story in standard form then try out the little film.
Eyes Have It! Honey Harlow one of the great TG entertainers shares some of her most exciting makeup secrets in her new column. This month Honey talks about how to do your eyes. Everyone can take something from this article because Honey really knows how to do it right!
Foundation (Pt. 1): Where It All Begins Part One: Shopping. Picking out the right foundation color is the key to your whole look. Choose poorly and the fires of hell await...no no...and you won't look right that's it. Learn how to shop for the color that works for you. By Cindy Martin
Foundation (Pt. 2): Where It All Begins Part Two: What Is The Best Type for You? Decisions decision. Should you go with an oil-base or an oil-free? Powder liquid or cream? Picking out the right foundation type will make a large difference in the way you put your face together. Learn how to do t
Foundation: Beard Cover No doubt about it there is a shadow hanging over a lot of TGs one that turns up around 5 o'clock. Cindy Martin gives you some ideas and tricks about getting rid of that annoying dark frame on your jaw. It really can be done.
Hair Today Pass Tommorow! TGF reader Kerri Edwards has a great tip for you if you want to make it out in the real world.
Honey's Makeup Ideas: Luscious Lips TG Showgirl Honey Harlow tells her secrets for wonderfully beautiful lips. This is the kind of information you can get from no one else and Honey explains it all in easy to understand language.
How to Do Foundation An exciting new series on Cosmetics begins this week by Wendy Farrell operator of Woman's Touch a TG friendly transformation service. Learn how to put on this very important base. If you've ever had trouble with beard cover and foundation this is the article that will help you.
How to Remove Makeup Yes you really do need to know how to do this properly if you don't want to get funny looks from the folks at work the "day after." Bobbi Williams gives you all the details on the best way to clean those traces.
I'm Ready For My Close-Up Mr. DeMille Talk about makeovers! Stacy Clement gets the full treatment at the Jim Bridges studio in L.A. The world renowned cosmetician who is very well-known in the TG community gives Stacy a wonderful look. The "Before" and "After" shots are amazing.
Lips: Beautiful Not Beastly Cindy Martin takes you through the simple steps to beautiful lips with some practical ideas for those problem areas.
Makeover A major story by Bettina Bourne that captures succinctly and accurately all of the major elements tools and tricks you need to really do your face right. A masterful work.
Mirror Mirror Stacie B. Haven has many extremely valuable makeup ideas for you. Almost anyone can profit from her ideas on how to achieve a look that really works for you. Her "rogues" gallery concept is a real winner.
Miss Tips on Nail Polish How to select test and use this important product from one of the world's great experts on cosmetics and their use. It's Our Miss Tips!
My Secret...for Beautiful Skin Peta Wilson and Robyn give us some excellent ideas on preparing and then making up beautiful skin. Both these ladies are well-versed in creating a wonderful look.
My Secret: Along the Right Lines This is a terrific primer on doing your eyes quickly and perfectly. Sheryl Marie Lynn has come up with techniques born out of the necessity of getting her makeup down quickly before leaving for work but whether you're living full-time or not these are outstanding tips.
My Secret: Camille's Over-the-Top Beauty Tips Our lovely raven-haired beauty from California has some terrific ideas for your makeup strategy if you like being a little daring and different. Dowdy no! Drag si!
My Secret: Eyebrows by Tina B One of TGF's most attractive readers shares one of the secrets of her successful look. This is an excellent "how-to" about an area of the face that is crucial to a good appearance.
My Secret: Kathy Moore and Ways to Make it All Work Reader Kathy Moore provides an outstanding series of tips for improving your look that are easy and practical. You'll find something here that will matter to you.
My Secret: Luscious Lips Pretty lady Yvonne Sylvester has a really great trick for pretty lips with color that won't come off on your first cup of coffee. Best of all you don't need to spend a lot for this trick to work for you.
My Secret: Michelle Ross One of TGF's prettiest readers Michelle has an excellent tip for you on how to make your eyes look great.
My Secret: Michelle Ross One of TGF's prettiest readers Michelle has an excellent tip for you on how to make your eyes look great.
My Secret: Michelle Van Equity Fun loving Michelle tells us how she gets those great bedroom eyes with some marvelous tips. The lower lid idea is terrif!
My Secret: Odds Ends and Other Claire Louise Stafford and Rebecca have a number of really useful easy tips that will help make getting ready to go out a whole lot easier!
My Secret: Odds Ends and Other Claire Louise Stafford and Rebecca have a number of really useful easy tips that will help make getting ready to go out a whole lot easier!
My Secret: Puff & Plum For Lasting Looks California cutie Michelle Stanton shares a couple of her favorite tricks for getting a great look. Sound advice from a lovely person.
My Secret: Sherri's Look Lovely Sherri spills the beans on how she got her terrific look. There is a little something here for everyone. Great ideas and sound advice.
My Secrets to a Feminine Face Diane Kaye has some very fine ideas for working with beard cover and other basics to a pretty look. Interesting tips for you.
Product Review: InstaFace Drag queens have for years used tape to give them a younger more feminine look. Here is a product that does the same job only in a more sophisticated way. Review by Diane Barker.
Saya's Makeup Ideas Our gal in Tokyo the stunning Saya shares her favorite beauty tips in this graphics-rich article. Excellent basic and advanced ideas. Her two-color foundation strategy is a winner!
Secret of Lips The "kewpee" doll look has been out a long time but "bee sting" is in. Wendy Farrell discusses the colors and the design you need to get look that works today. Easy totally useful and a lot of fun to read.
Stylin' with Ms. Tips: Beard Cover (pt. 1) The way to a well-covered beard is through some simple steps but you have to practice to get it right. In this first of two parts Lynda Krupa explains the prepping necessary to do it right.
Stylin' with Ms. Tips: Colorfast Lipsticks Expert cosmetician Lynda Krupa reviews the products that deliver or not on promises to beautify you lips and keep them pretty for as long as YOU want. Premier column by a terrific person.
Stylin' with Ms. Tips: Eyeliner The wonderfully gorgeous Lynda Krupa discusses the art and science of using eyeliner. This is a fine "how-to" on a product that a lot of us screw up.
Stylin with Ms. Tips: Nail Polish How to select test and use this important product from one of the world's great experts on cosmetics and their use. It's Our Miss Tips!
Stylin' with Ms. Tips: Tools of the Trade Brushes are among the most important tools you'll have in your makeup kit. But to use them right you have to know what to buy and what they are best used for.
Stylin' with Ms. Tips: Tools of the Trade Brushes are among the most important tools you'll have in your makeup kit. But to use them right you have to know what to buy and what they are best used for.
A Women's Touch: Doing Your Eyes Professional cosmetician Wendy Farrell walks you through some of the key basics for getting your eyes just right. These are extremely practical tips that can help anyone no matter how often you've done your eyes.
Photograpy Tips
Glamour Photos Part 1 brings us useful information for those who are tempted to commit their beauty to film. Donna T. discusses the different elements necessary to produce a good glamour shot. You'll learn about the best type of lighting to use the value of props and even effective use of fog. In Part 2 Donna will get into makeup for glamour shots.
Glamour Photos Part 2 You have sent the kids to Disney land and the wife is on her way to Sweden to a spa you have your props background and camera all set. To do it right you need to have a clear idea about what goes into a great glamour photo. Strong makeup and good foundation are vitally important to getting that great shot. Big hair doesn't hurt either. Terrific nuts-and-bolts help by Donna T.
How To Do a Photo Gallery/Pictorial is part one in a series by Ricki Weaver. This month Ricki gives us an overview of what you need to do your own photo shoot and get glamorus results. She talks about cameras tripods settings and... of course hair and makeup. Don't miss this one if you have been wanting to take good shots of yourself to send in for a TGF pictorial.
How To Do a Photo Gallery/Pictorial: Part Three Ricki Weaver wraps up her three part series on how to create your own first rate picture gallery. Previously she's focussed on the equipment that you'd need now she talks about the content of your pictures. Haven't we all seen enough of our sisters' standing by their front door or sitting on a sofa? Ricki shares some of her most creative ideas for you to use.
How To Do a Photo Gallery/Pictorial: Part Two This month Ricki Weaver gives us some ideas on how to clean up bad backgrounds and manipulate a photo to improve it's appearance. Editing programs can do wonders so long as you don't mess around with the most important thing in the picture: YOU! A really helpful article...
Intro to Photography If you think a "hot shoe" is a 4 inch stiletto and "depth of field" describes your lawn because you've been dressing the last three weekends then this month's installment ofIntro To Photography will get you going on the basics
Intro to Photography This week we introduce you to our new photography columnist who will soon be sharing some of his tips for getting a better picture.
Photo Tricks: Nylons and Vaseline Use these great products to make your photos look really special. Terrific nuts-and-bolts help by Donna T.
Photography: Digital Picture Basics Posting a photo on the Web or emailing it to a friend is one of the most enjoyable things people in our community do on the Internet. But while inexpensive scanners and cameras have made getting a digital photo is easier than ever there remains a great deal of confusion over some of the most basic aspects of this form of photography. Julie Peters' article sheds some light on what can be a tricky subject
Photography: Getting Safe Film Developing Getting your film developed safely and inexpensively isn't difficult but you need to watch out for a few things that could result in a redface when it is time to pick up your pictures. Julie Peters comes through with sage straightforward advice on how to get all your kix from your pix without a nix from the hix.
Photography: Making The Picture Work For You Attitude and the right equipment will get you going in the right direction when you decide to improve your photo skills. In this the first of a series of columns on getting quality photos Julie Peters describes some easy basics that will help immediately
Photography: Setting Up A Studio Unless you love the "snapshot" look the best way to get a great picture is to simplify your background and work on your lighting. To do that you need some kind of a studio area. Julie Peters offers you several ways of doing this and you don't need to be a professional to make it all work.
Saving Face Have you ever seen an artist start a painting on a dirty canvas? Or a photographer not care what film he used? Not likely so what about the skin you put that makeup on? Clean is a must if you want your foundation to be even and stay on your face. Terrific nuts-and-bolts help by Donna T.
Say Cheese! Diane Kay tells us about the importance of a good photo when a girl needs a little perspective. And she gives us hints on how to get the most useful shots. Find out how to get the most out of your equipment and get a few pointers on how to look your best
Style Counsel
Backcombing to Beautiful Hair With today's looks you need to know how to backcomb to get the most out of your hair. Ideas and tips on how to do it from Kimberly Lorraine Adams.
Beyond Press-Ons Let's be honest: ordinary press-on nails don't come large enough for our thumbs. Jayne Nicole TGF's newest writer has a fabu idea for ending that tragedy of too-teeny faux nails. You gotta work a little but don't all good things happen that way?
Bras & Panties: What Every Girl Wants to Know Diane Kaye presents a wonderfully lucid article on what to look for when you are shopping for these essentials. All part of the details of getting together a solid look.
Bridal Salon Jenn Blake tells how she got the courage to go to a bridal salon try and purchase her own gown. Fun outting!
Clubwear! You haven't been out since Travolta danced in his white suit and you're going to a club filled with people in their 20s. What the hell do you wear? Mardi Clark can help you in this great fashion Do's and Don'ts for today's club scene. Now we cannot do any
Corsetry Comfort Comfort is of utmost importance to those who desire to indulge in the art of tightlacing. If a lady does not FEEL good when wearing her stays then the incentive to continue dissipates. This also happens to be an excellent buyers' guide. By Tes Staylace
Gina's Secret: How to Shave Really Close Let's be honest this is a must for most of us much as we hate it and prefer not to do it. But since it must be done Gina Mylano has some excellent ideas for getting an extremely close shave without the cuts burns and bumps. Well worth your time and make SURE you see Gina's website. The link is with the story.
Going Public: State of Mind Let's face it getting out into the real world is something most of us really do want to do. But making it all work isn't just a question of cosmetics and clothes. You have to have the right attitude if you want to "be real". Robin Jean Peters begins a three part article on how to develop the poise and confidence you need to pass in public.
Hair Styling Part 5: 'Volume For Longer Hair In her fifth part of this terrific series of informational stories on doing your hair Coreen Clark describes her methods of working with a longer style. Nice read very useful!
Hairpieces Are A Great Option to Wig Wearers They are light look a lot more natural than those hair helmets we call wigs and you can wear one on a motorcycle. Hairpieces are pretty great though they have some downsides. By Jayne Nicole
Hairstyling Part 2: Products and Appliances Correen Clark runs down the gear and the goop you'll need to get the perfect look. A really fine overview and even if you aren't stylin' now this is one you'll come back to later...
Hips! Texas beauty Nicole Asahi shares her favorite secret for creating those most curvaceous areas. First in a new series written by our prettiest readers that we think you will really enjoy.
How to Buy A Wedding Ring It's the perfect final touch to a complete look and great passing trick. A good idea to put in the old trick book. By Kelly Green
How To Put On A Bra In adolescence many of us learned how to take them off our chosen partner but here's some practical advice about how to put them on. It may seem a minor point but doing it wrong can land you on the floor. Read Elizabeth Parker's advice for the proper exercises you should do to fasten the contraption.
Little Things Mean A Lot It's in the details that will make or break your look. Sometimes much less really is more explains Leslee Anthony. If passing is important to you then you certainly want to read this
My Secret: Beautiful in a Bargain Some people say that cross-dressing is the real "sport of Kings" because it is so expensive. Doesn't have to be that way explains Jade Devlin our bargain-hunting gal from Central California. A very practical "how-to".
My Secret: Gain Without Pain Cheryl who lives in Manchester UK has several terrific ideas for making small eyes large large waists narrow and non-existent cheeks pop right out. Quick useful read.
My Secret: What Works Best For Us Two TGF girls who know a thing or two about putting a look together share some of their secrets with you this week. We always learn if we're willing to listen and bothe Georgia and Brenda have some valuable things to say.
Nailed It! Ever considered a nail kit to enhance the look of your hands? Leslee Anthony has the full lowdown on how to work with these products. If you want to know how to do it Leslee is your lady!
Nicole's Secret has to do with "taming the mane" -- real or puchased. This TG Forum pictorial beauty has the locks and knows how to whip them into shape. You can roll through this piece quickly (you'll realize how bad of a pun that was after you read her story!) and might even look better for it.
Nine Inch Nails Well not really but if you want to know how to feed and care for your nails so that they look great and hold up under a good scratch then Diane Kaye has the info you need. News you can use...
No Business Like Shoe Business In the second part of the series Diane Kaye describes the various styles that most shoes derive their look from. Coverings and construction quality are also covered.
No Business Like Shoe Business In this first part of an excellent three part series Diane Kaye takes you through the basics of shoe styles and construction. This really is news you can use!
Perfect Nail Finish Diane Kaye gives you excellent advice on how to get your natural nails looking as shiny and perfect as those fake ones. If you want you hands to be beautiful this is a good way to get started.
Petticoat Pond: Full Skirts Wearing these kinds of garments may be the ultimate in femininity but keeping things nice and tidy takes a bit of knowledge. Tes Staylace offers you some ideas on how to wear the crinolines and petticoats that make these dresses so much fun.
Petticoats and Hoops That Extend the Charm (Part Two) Wide skirts whether in the form of hoops crinolines farthingales or voluminous petticoats alone are a direct barometer of the times. Skirts become paltry during times of war and unrest only to widen and become exuberant again in the postwar period. A bit of social history and plenty of interesting commentary on those BIG skirts. By Tes Staylace
Protect Your Nails Men don't worry much if they break a nail. Why should they? They haven't spent a month trying to grow and shape them. Once you've invested the time for nice nails shouldn't you also pay attention to the way you use them? Sound advice from Diane Kaye
Protect Your Nails Men don't worry much if they break a nail. Why should they? They haven't spent a month trying to grow and shape them. Once you've invested the time for nice nails shouldn't you also pay attention to the way you use them? Sound advice from Diane Kaye
Psychology of Color It is true that wearing the wrong colors can effect how you feel and behave. So can wearing the right ones as Dr. Alycia Ellison discovers. It's very important to know what works for you and with just a little practice can be the best investment in your a
Reusing Custom Sculpted Acrylic Nails If your budget can handle the initial outlay custom nails can be reused over and over IF you know how to do it. Alexandra Angel shares her techniques in our "My Secret" feature this week.
Robin's Secret: Developing A Feminine Walk We devote a great deal of time and money to our clothes makeup and hair because one thing we all have in common is that we not only want to be pretty but confident that we can go out in public without being read. This requires more than beard cover and makeup: you also need to know how to walk properly. An excellent primer by Robin Jean Peters.
Shoes Stacy Clement offers a few ideas on where to find shoes if you're a touch over size 9. Good little story on where to look for larger size shoes or where to mail order for them.
Shoes: Straps and Sizing In the final chapter of her most informative primer on shoes Diane Kaye discusses the differences between straps and teaches you how to properly convert male to female sizes and vice versa. A handy thing to know next time you place that catalogue order!
Shoes: Straps and Sizing In the final chapter of her most informative primer on shoes Diane Kaye discusses the differences between straps and teaches you how to properly convert male to female sizes and vice versa. A handy thing to know next time you place that catalogue order!
Shopping with Angela Our Doctor of Shopology unveils the secrets of finding real bargains. In the closet or not there are great tips for saving money in this article.
Size 20 and Surviving In a Size 10 T-World When she's all dressed and in her heels she is 6' 6" from top to bottom and says that she knows "I will never pass in public even without the platforms. Hear me voluptuous ones never." once she accepted that fact and decided to do the best with what she has watch out! Roxy du Monde is gorgeous and smart and she's also large. Her two-part series will be invaluable to those like her but EVERYONE can benefit from her commonsense tips and ideas. A great fun read.
Skirt Flirting! The gentle and very feminine art of using one's skirts and crinolines to send a message. Lovingly written by Tes Staylace.
Slacks and How to Wear Them Pants can be very feminine and they're great when you need to scoot around but TGs especially TVs tend to avoid them. Be pantless no more! Diane Kaye and Cindy Martin explain how to choose the type of pants that are most flattering for your body type.
Style Counsel: Be A Hippy! Leslee Anthony has some great advice for you: get some hips if you want to look right. Let's be honest if you were born male your hips are narrower than your shoulders. Fix that and you're on the way to a great femme look.
Style Counsel: Be A Hippy! Leslee Anthony has some great advice for you: get some hips if you want to look right. Let's be honest if you were born male your hips are narrower than your shoulders. Fix that and you're on the way to a great femme look.
Style Counsel: Clothes for the Taller and Larger Person Perhaps you cannot change your size but you can change into something that will emphasize your best points and minimize your problem areas. Cindy Martin discusses some ideas for the bigger transgender person's wardrobe.
Style Counsel: Developing A Wardrobe Clean out that closet! Time to take a hard look at what you have in there and identify the losers and winners. In this Style Counsel we take you into the dark recesses of your wardrobe and learn how to use what you have as a foundation for a great new lo
Style Counsel: Sizing Establish a style and find your best look but first no how big or small you are.
Style Counsel: Wigs Joann Roberts talks to you about how to find a wig that suits you.
The KISS Factor Simplicity is the key to passing. In this marvelous style article Leslee Anthony explains that the basics ARE the secret to moving around unmolested in the real world. Solid reporting.
Thongs: How to Wear 'Em They're sexy and for some outfits they are absolutely essential. But thongs weren't exactly designed with us in mind. Diane Kaye tells us how to pull it off! Um I mean do it successfully.
Toe Jamb? How To Make Shoes Fit How many times has it happened to you? You find "THE" perfect pair of shoes for that new outfit. You get them home try them on only to find that after wearing them for a few minutes your toes start cramping as if you had run a marathon in them. There is an option to returning them that may be perfect for you. By Gabrielle.
Tush Push It's here and it's fabulous says Julie Peters. Get the low down on the latest is gaffing accoutrements.
Walk The Walk Looking good and walking in high heels is not as simple as it sounds. A lot of us don't really do it right and worse look bad in the process. Learn how to walk the right way with heels and you're whole outlook en femme will improve. By Bobbi Williams.
What A Quality Corset Should Be In the second part of her latest article on corsetting Tes Staylace describes what a good corset is made from and the differences in the kinds of materials you're likely to encounter when you make a purchase.
What The Well Dressed Gender Nerd Is Wearing Transgender Forum's own Jamie Faye Fenton makes a confession in a special story she shares with us this week. She's a gender nerd! Those of us that know TGFs systems administrator weren't taken aback by this revelation at all. But then she also suggests we get our next pair of earrings at an electronics supply store! Now that surprised us!
What We've Learned Barbara Satin and Becky bring you their tips on how to develop the feminine voice you've dreamed of and the beautiful nails you long for. Two great readers sharing their "secret" with you...
Who's Wearing the Pants On Those Hot Summer Nights? Correen Clark had a problem: she cannot shave her legs. The double pantyhose trick is great in the winter but what about when it gets warm? Terrific "how-to" that will help you advance your look.
Wide Skirts: Extending the Charm Tes Staylace discusses the enduring charm of the wide skirt and its power to exaggerate the female figure. The wide skirt seduces us into a world in which few men participate for beneath its surface lies a myriad of captivating items.
Woman's Touch: Wigs and Turkeys Cosmetics and style expert Wendy Farrell has some ideas for you on choosing the proper wig...Getting the right locks can make all the difference between getting the wrong kind of double-takes and passing without question.
General How To
28 Reasons To Cross Dress Hebe Dotson comes up with a very interesting and saucy list of reasons found in literature and the media that try to explain why people cross-dress. See if you're in here.
Achieving a Natural Look It's the difference between drag and reality. The Natural Look is first and foremost YOU. It is always a mistake to try to reinvent the wheel or turn back the clock on styles you wore when you were twenty years younger. Useful advice from Toni Evola.
Being On The Net You want to get your own page set up on the Web. You'd like to load it up with your favorite pictures and tell every one that finally you have arrived. But you haven't got a clue how to start. Stef Matthews will take you through the steps of getting up a
Being On The Net: Part II TGForum Assistant Editor Stef Matthews takes you into the brave new world of web page building with an easy to understand lesson on HTML the coding language used for web page creation. Don't be scared: you can do this!
Being on the Net: Part III Stef Matthews moved you past having a basic template for a web page (don't worry you can catch up to earlier parts of the series) and into the specifics of some tags that you'll use in almost every page that you create. A keeper for those of you interest
California Dreamin' Was Not A Nightmare But it looked it would start that way. Joan Rowe's adventures with the cops in car hell as she ventures out for the first time during the day.
Chatting On The Net Learn how to chat with your sisters and brothers on the Internet and where to get the software to do it. By Sally Nelson.
Coming Out - Face to Face Haven't come out yet? At all?! Then read Jayne Fischer's advice on how to and as importantly who to the first time you do. You might be surprised at her suggestions.
Coming Out At Work Kelly Ann Stiles's memo was her way of telling the bosses something very special. If this issue even remotely concerns you this is one to read.
Coming Out At Work: Telling Everyone Hannah Reinstein's memo to co-workers about disclosing who she is to her son is also her way of telling them. Emotional and educational a must read for those of you considering transition on the job.
Coming Out At Work: Telling Everyone (pt. 2) Hannah Reinstein's memo to co-workers about disclosing who she is to her son is also her way of telling them. Her colleagues responses are emotional and educational a must read for those of you considering transition on the job.
Crossdresser's Guide to Stepping Out This is an important concise article for the person getting ready to get out in public. Carolyn Woodward gives you the nuts-and-bolts you'll need to get started.
Dealing Respectfully With TG Customers--A Guide For Shop Owners Most "How To" guides in this community are aimed at TGs but what about those people who provide services and products to us? In a well thought out article Susan Hall writes for people who deal with us at cosmetic counters and clothing racks but she also
Don't Be A Shopping Wuss! You're the one paying the money so you should expect good service and the chance to try things on. Don't let shame get in the way. By Andrea Blank
En Femme Credit Card Wouldn't it be great when you pull out the plastic to have your femme name there instead of that "twin brother"? Here's how to do it legally and easily. By Jayne Nicole.
Exactly Woman If you let down your fears and take a reasonable chance it's amazing the magical things that can happen. Cindy Jones describes how a visit to a nail salon opened up a new world for her...and for a lady who wanted to learn much more about us.
Flying En Femme: What about ID? Allison Marsh reports in her usual straightforward fashion on identification issues if you are planning on flying cross-dressed.
Going Solo Sometimes you just need a little push to make that next move. For Stephanie it was being dropped off at the front of a major shopping center and being forced to sink or swim. Would the gender police bust her? Would the kids all laugh the adults point and smirk? If you're thinking about finally going out in public or just want to remember those moments this is for you...
Gotta Do It! Okay you don't go out in public and your wife won't buy clothes for you. So how do you build a wardrobe? You've got to do it yourself. Scary. Cissy B takes you through her experience shopping for women's clothes as a man. Fun read and too true.
Hairstyling: Getting Into The Swing Of Things Hairstyling is an art and though it is beneficial to start with a guiding hand using your imagination to dream up new things to try is fun too. In this part of her series on hairstyling Coreen Clark gives you some ways of doing that. A true keeper of a s
Helpful Hints: First Outings What is a good plan for that first time out? Should you try to blend in and hope for the best or expect people will notice and play it out as it happens? In her inaugural column Stacy Clement offers a few ideas that might make things go a bit easier that first exciting time.
Helpful Hints: Victim vs. Survivor Personalities It may not be PC to say it but are some people victimized verbally and physically because of their demeanor appearance and reaction to confrontation? In this exceptionally thought provoking column Stacy Clement looks at the phenomenon of victimization and who may be most vulnerable. Strong ideas. Solid writing.
How To Make Transmen Feel Comfortable at Your Event We say we want inclusion and then either by design or ignorance we chase F2Ms away. Here are 10 simple rules that might help. Good too if you are just generally interested in knowing more about good manners in the community.
How To Pass In 3 Months From newbie hiding in the closet to proud and confident able to go anywhere Diane Kaye walks you through her techniques for "fasttracking" into the real world. The closet might be fun but nothing beats the real world. Super "how-to" .
Intro to Photography This week we introduce you to our new photography columnist who will soon be sharing some of his tips for getting a better picture.
Intro to Photography If you think a "hot shoe" is a 4 inch stiletto and "depth of field" describes your lawn because you've been dressing the last three weekends then this month's installment ofIntro To Photography will get you going on the basics
Ladies Room Sooner or later you gotta go. But going to the Ladies Room needn't be traumatic especially you follow Leslee M. Anthony
Mail Ordering Clothes Leslee Anthony takes the mystery out of this fun but often frustrating process. Finally a good "how to" on measuring oneself to do catalogue or any other kind of shopping
My Glamour Shot Adventure Gorgeous Michelle W takes you inside a Glamour Shots photo shoot. It's a fun thing that you can do too!
My Secret: A Temporary Facelift! Our gal Kay passes along a wonderful tip for getting rid of those wrinkles any time you want. And no large medical fees either!
My Secret: Allie McLaughlin Got wrinkles? Worried about those laugh lines? Allie has some long term and short term tricks and tools you can use to minimize those canyons and keep you looking young.
My Secret: Arch d'Triomphe Getting great eyebrows is one thing going to work the next day is another. Here are some handy workarounds to that little problem from Laura a gorgeous TG from the UK
My Secret: Build It Out Cover It Up Reader Susan Sinclair shares some very good easy-to-do and valuable ideas on doing your hips and covering beards
My Secret: Cissy and Stephanie A pair of TGF beauties describe some of their very best dressing and cosmetic tips for you. Lots of excellent ideas you can use right now!
My Secret: Gabrielle Know how you can never quite style a wig right with just two hands? Gabrielle has a nifty inexpensive idea for getting your crowning glory just so.
My Secret: Go Public! Jennifer Blake offers some classic tips for how to get around in public while en femme. Timeless ideas.
My Secret: It Never Hurts To Ask In her "My Secret" turn Donna talks about stabilizing a look and a style even if you live in a place that may not seem gender-friendly. Her suggestions about seeking out professionals to help are not only sound they'll save you money in the end. Worthwhi
My Secret: Looking So Sharp Bobbi Swan and Karen Michelle share some of their best tips with you. Don't be a slouch and find out the best way to deal with body hair. Shared knowledge is the best knowledge...
My Secret: Lori Larkin Some great tips to improve your look from one of the prettiest TGs there is.
My Secret: Sheri . Sheri from Washington D.C. reminds us of a few good tips for developing feminine beauty.
My Secret: ShortcutsTo Your Look Gorgeous June Kasumi a 25-year-old beauty from Hawaii shares some of her favorite tricks for developing the look you want. Basic and sensible ideas for you...
My Secret: Things that Work For Me Karen Adler shares some of her favorite makeup and shopping tips...this is a lady who knows what works for her because she knows herself.
My Secret: Weights for Success Can lifting weights really improve one's feminine appearance? Cissy shares her secret about how "pumping iron" can help one achieve the figure we all wish for.
On The Road Again Living in a suitcase can be fun especially if it's full of your dainties. For some of us the only way to get out in public is when we're on the road for a business trip. Ricki Weaver presents some ideas and strategies for doing it right.
One Way to Find a Partner: Be Yourself Aurora DeLeonne debuts here with solid information on how to find a partner and get out of your isolation. She's young and attractive but her approach should work for anyone.
Pad Those Hips! Jami Ward presents a truly excellent "how to" on creating your own hip pads. Well done and illustrated Jami's article succeeds in explaining the real differences in body shapes between men and women. A keeper.
Petticoat Pond: Full Skirts Wearing these kinds of garments may be the ultimate in femininity but keeping things nice and tidy takes a bit of knowledge. Tes Staylace offers you some ideas on how to wear the crinolines and petticoats that make these dresses so much fun.
Photography: "To Catch A Butterfly" Joel Greenberg shares some important ideas for anyone who has ever been unhappy with a self-photograph. Like everyone.
Piercing: The Times May Be Right Are you ready to have your ears pierced? But what will they say around the water cooler. All you ever wanted to know about piercing tricks to hide the holes and how people tend to react. A+ "how to" by Coreen Clark
Pretty Voice Pretty Hands Pretty You Our Pictorial girl Barbie Satin has some solid advice for you on how to get a better voice while Becky a lovely lady from Texas describes one sure way to end those ugly nail blues.
Product Review: Quik Shave It looks a bit odd but this new product delivers on much of it's basic promises says Diane Kaye. In this consumer product review Ms. Kaye tells you both the good and the not-so-good. Only in TGForum.
Queen For A Day Just imagine: a day spent being made over by one of the world's best make up artist's and then doing a photo shoot in exciting outfits! Yes. This is a fun story with great looking photos. You'll enjoy it. By Stacy Clement.
Say Cheese! Diane Kay tells us about the importance of a good photo when a girl needs a little perspective. And she gives us hints on how to get the most useful shots. Find out how to get the most out of your equipment and get a few pointers on how to look your best
Self Portraits: How to Do It Right . Leslee Anthony professional photographer explains the fundamentals and the tricks of getting a great self-portrait. Useful stuff.
Shoes Shoes Nothing But Shoes Our "go-out" girl Diane Kaye and her pal Anne Marie hit the bricks again this time in search of footwear. The simple joys of getting out in the real world.
Shopping For Linda It isn't easy to overcome your fears but sooner or later you've got to buy clothes in the real world and guess what? It's fun and a heck of lot better than guess your way through a catalogue. Linda Jensen tells a bit of how she overcame her fears and offe
So You Want To Be A Bridesmaid If you love the look of bridesmaid dresses you can find all kinds of inexpensive ways to fulfill your desire. In this fine "how-to" Jennifer Blake gives you the scoop on finding the dress of your dreams and the accessories at incredibly low prices.
Stef Matthews: Throwing Scouts Ladylike sitting poses some ahem tricky little problems. Not to put too fine a point on it but one does need to avoid "throwing scouts" which Stef will define for you. Great "how to" on keeping appearances right.
Style: Internal and External Leslee Anthony looks at the attitudes that can shape or misshape our presentation to the real world. A solid mix of straight talk and in the last half of the article some very very good "how to" tips on the details that will make or break you out there.
Talk Like a Woman By Melanie Phillips. Classic primer on developing a feminine voice.
Thought Transmission: Melody's Realistic Tips and Tricks Our young TS columnist has extremely sage advice that anyone can use newbie or post-op. Don't miss her miscellaneous tips towards the bottom of the story. One or two may put a grin on your face.
Tight Corsetry and Bringing the Waist Size Down It can really be down with the proper corset and consistent training. Tes Staylace describes how you can take an incredible eight inches off your waist.
To Pass or Not This is a brilliant "how-to" that gives anyone who wants to make it in public as a woman some extremely valuable ideas and techniques. Leslee Anthony's analysis of key movements and gestures is one of the very best of its kind.
Tuck It! This is how-to get rid of that unsightly bulge when you need to wear something form fitting. Jennifer Petersen gives you the skinny...
Unwanted Advances (Part 2) What to do when you are the object of unwanted attention from someone who KNOWS you are transgender. By Heather Lee.
Unwanted Advances. Pt 1 You're out on the town and enjoying yourself when you suddenly feel a strong masculine hand on your shoulder. "Can I have this dance"? It's flattering but is it what you want? By Heather Lee.
User ID: It Better Be You Carolyn Woodward presents a concise piece of information on the do's and don't of you identification as well as how to change it. Sooner or later you're going to need to know something about this subject.
User's Guide to Getting Out and About Understand the basics of what prevents you from getting out is the first step out the door. What are you actually worried about? How then do you deal with it? By Diane Kaye
What Do You Scream For? Ricki Weaver gets her thrills from a special smooth and creamy cool and luscious concoction. And she tell's us all about in this very detailed step by step easy to understand how-to. You won't be the same once you've gotten the proper equipment and given it a try. As long as you're careful and take it slow it'll definitely be worth it in the end... whether you like it with whipped cream or hot fudge.
What Every MtF TG Should Carry In Her Purse An excellent checklist of things you should have with you before heading out that door. Everyone can use a refresher on what sort of must-have items one needs no matter how long you've been out in the world. By Diane Hutchison.
White-Collar World Groceries and the Men In Blue The kind of day out many of us dream of but it almost turns into a nightmare for Coreen Clark as she navigates through an adventurous 12 hours. Fun true-life "go out" story.
Why Do People React To Transgenderism The Way They Do? In this fascinating piece Stacy Clement describes research that shows how quickly people make a judgement about something they see hear or feel. She also describes a most illuminating bit of information about how "mimicking" another person's behaviors can result in quite unexpected results.
Wigs & Skirts Are you buying a little "young"? Going cheap with your wig? Allison Marsh brings her experience and common sense to issues of style for people of all ages. Homey and useful.
Wigs: Tighten 'Em Up! When a big wind blows or some wiseacre wants to test out your "hair" better make sure it doesn't go anywhere. Allison Marsh tells you all you need to know to keep that wig in place.
Without Even Trying . Allison Marsh develops the perfect feminine voice after a lengthy hospital stay. What's it like to be mistaken for female without even trying?
Writing Well : Ms. Bobbi Swan reminds us that even email deserves to be well-written to attract attention. She shares her ideas with us on how to connect in a sea of bits and bytes.
