Thought for Tuesday & Tip #1 - 3

As I was driving into work today, I had an idea for my next blog. I have read tons of articles describing the differences between men and women. One difference that I have come across several times is that the authors assume that women are calmer and more forgiving behind the wheel. As I was cut off by a woman in an SUV for the fifth time in thirty minutes, I had to question that logic. While posing the question, a blonde haired beauty in a Lexus roared by me in the left lane, swerving in and out of traffic like she was on a slalom ski course.
Here is my point: quit worrying about doing everything like a woman. The more you try to ensure all of your mannerisms are feminine, the more those mannerisms will appear rehearsed and fake. Think of drag queens. All of their mannerisms are overstated, and it is obvious they are playing a part. Are we playing a part or trying to be ourselves? I know when I am presenting as Janet, I am doing all things as the woman that I am. I just do what comes natural to me, and do not worry if it is inherently masculine or feminine.
When I was at the casino last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to watch ladies as they played the slots. The majority did not sit like prim and proper ladies with their legs crossed at the knees and their hands gently crossed on their laps. They sat any way they felt comfortable. That should tell us something. If we are not comfortable, how can we properly present as our femme personas? We can't. 
Tip#1
So I am going to offer this first tip for those CD/TG MTF ladies out there who are starting out and might be concerned about presenting or passing in public:
Relax! GGs (genetic girls) walk in different styles, talk with different resonance, sit in different ways, have different mannerisms, and generally act differently from one another.
Now, this is not to say that we should all go out there in mini-skirts sitting with our legs wide open, grabbing our crotches while we are burping and farting uncontrollably, but try to make your bodily movements seem as natural as possible. An uncomfortable person, whether male or female, will show their comfort level through their body movements. It draws attention to you and makes people who normally would not give you a second glance pay closer attention to you. And that is when most people get read.
Tip#2
Have fun! Nothing pushes people away more than a frown. I understand that some of us do not want to interact with others when we are en femme because of voice or other issues, but how are we going to make the world understand that we are normal unless we start acting normally? If a salesperson comes up to you, do not brush them away. Talk to them. You will be amazed how much assistance you can get with wardrobe and makeup tips when you talk to others. Find places such as Dress Barn and Sephora that are CD friendly and give it a whirl!
Tip#3
Dress appropriately! This may sound basic, but it is true. How many times do you see a woman in a cocktail dress and 4 inch heels shopping for groceries at 10 o'clock at night? I will assume never. If you are going to a nice dinner with friends at an appropriate location, the cocktail dress and heels are appropriate. Or maybe if you are going to a wedding or a formal party. Here are my ideas for everyday wear that will allow you to fit in while still looking nice.
During the week:
Businesswomen do go shopping before and after work and at lunch. Wear a skirtsuit or pantsuit with three to four inch heels, moderate makeup, and basic jewelry from 6AM to 6PM. If you are going to do a lot of shopping with tons of walking, I would suggest shorter heels.

After 6PM, most women have changed into casual attire. If you go out for normal errands after 6, change into jeans or capris with a nice knit shirt and flats or low heel wedges. As this is my blog, I will state my #1 pet peeve--flip flops. Flip flops are NOT a fashion statement and are not appropriate except for places that serve fruity drinks with umbrellas in them while the sand covers your feet as you walk. Nothing turns me away more than a lady with a nice dress or other nice outfit wearing flip flops. Janet does not own a pair and never will. My male persona has a pair but restricts their use to around the house.

Weekend:
In the summertime, a pair of shorts or a light skirt and a t and canvas shoes or ballerina flats works well with minimal makeup and jewelry during the day with a sleeveless or cap sleeve sundress and flats or dress sandals for nighttime wear.

In the spring and fall, replace the shorts with capris and add a thin cardigan for the daytime. For the nighttime depending on where you are going, a dress with hose and high heels or jeans with a silk blouse and low heels work well.

For winter, jeans or leggings tucked into boots (low heeled during the day, high heeled at night) with a big sweater is the way to go.

 I am by no means a fashion expert, but these are the types of outfits I have found blend easier than extravagant ones.
Well, that is all for today's blog. I will add more tips as I find ones that I feel I should share.
Until later, keep your hose run-free and your wigs unmatted!
Janet