1 Pretty T Girls June 2014 The Magazine for the most beautiful girls in the world
A publication of Pretty T Girls Yahoo group 2 Pretty T Girls June 2014 The Magazine for the most beautiful girls in the world
A publication of Pretty T Girls Yahoo group 3 In This Issue
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Editorial by: Barbara Jean 4 The Future of Pretty T Girls Magazine 5 Busting Down the Closet Door 7 Expert Tips for Makeup That Last 8 11 Easy Ways to Make Your Eyes Look Bigger 12 At Home Hair Removal: Will it Get Easier 16 The Adventures of Judy Sometimes 21 The Exploits of Barbara Marie 23 Do Definitions Matter? By Rhonda 25 Work With What You Got by: Angela Gardner 27 Humor 29 Angels In the Centerfold 30 Mellissa’s Tips & Tricks 33 Tasi’s Fashion News 40 Dress Better Over 40 43 Nine Expert Tips for Walking in Crazy Heels 45 Lucille Sorella 48 Easy Figure Fixes 52 Bald is Beautiful by: Annette 54 The Gossip Fence 57 Fantasia Fair Scholarship Information 64 Shop Till You Drop 66 Calendar 75
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The Silver Screen An Editorial by: Barbara Jean
A recent conversation on the TG Woman board was concerning the portrayal of TG’s on the silver screen and television.
In the British mini Series “Hit & Miss”, Chloe Sevigny, a genetic female portrays a MtF transsexual who works as a hired killer and then discovers she has a son by a previous marriage and now must be the parent to that child after the mother passed away.
In the Movie “TransAmerica” Felicity Huffman, a genetic female portrays a MtF transsexual preparing for her surgery.
The question come about, why does Hollywood always use genetic females to portray a MtF transsexual? Certainly an actual MtF transsexual could do a better job or portraying a transsexual.
Now I will be the first to admit that I am not familiar with the hiring process used by the television and movie industry. Certainly they do not put an ad in paper or use the employment service to find an ac- tress. As I understand actors and actresses have agents who they would hire through. In any case no doubt there are a number of actresses that would audition for the part and then the powers to be in the industry will choose who they want for the movie or TV role.
I guess this brings the first problem, finding a MtF actress. How many MtF transsexual are there that are working/seeking work as an actress? And while an actual transsexual could do a better job of portraying a transsexual, can they otherwise play the part that is required for the movie/TV Show? It is only today that we now see Lavern Cox an actual MtF being employed on the silver screen.
Another problem is the roles that Hollywood has crossdressers and transsexual characters in. The portrayal of us as either criminals or prostitutes. In the mini series “Hit & Miss” our transsexual Mia works as a hired killer, I do think they did a wonderful job of portraying us in “TransAmerica” and also in the HBO film “Normal”.
I have not yet seen the movie “Dallas Buyers Club”, but in it Jarad Leto plays Rayon, a transgender person who has AIDS and along with his co-star who also has AIDS they go to Mexico to buy drugs that are not yet approved in the United States that may help them and others live longer. Perhaps this is a step up in the portrayal of the transgender on the silver screen. Yet we do so much wish that an actual transgender person was used to portray Rayon.
“Tootsie” portrayed a person who crossdressed to get a job, “Mrs. Doubtfire” portrayed a person who crossdressed so that he could see his children more, “Bosom Buddies” portrayed two men who dressed as women so they could live in a place that was for women only. While these did not portray us as 5 as criminals or prostitutes, they did portray us more for the purpose of laughs. In “Pricilla, Queen of the Desert”, and “Too Wong Foo” it was not crossdressers or transsexual that were portrayed, but rather drag queens.
While Lavern Cox may be the first actual transsexual to play a transsexual on the silver screen, I have to wonder how long it will be before we see more transgender people in staring roles in the movies and on the television. The big question comes how many transgender actors and actresses are there? I also have to wonder what kind of roles they will be given.
The Future of Pretty T Girls Magazine By: Barbara Jean (publisher)
Four years ago I took over the task of producing the Pretty T Girls magazine. The first issue that I produced had like 36 pages and today it averages around 75 pages. Almost as soon as I finish producing one issue, I am starting work on the next.
In 2012 everything was in one survey, while this year there were two surveys, one to ask how one was getting their magazine and one to ask what they liked to read in the magazine. Of the 32 who answered the survey, 5 indicated that they did not read the magazine. Of those who did read it the majority received their copy from my personal mailing list while about six use the group file and three got it from Rachel Williston’s website.
So What items did the readers like, what didn’t they like? Of course few people will read a magazine from cover to cover. Rather they look to see what is in it that they might be interested in reading. In our most recent poll Mellissa’s Tips and articles on makeup seem to take the top spots, and right after that came Angel’s in The Centerfold. Least read was the Gossip Fence and Miscellaneous TG Articles and yet even while the least, they did show that half of those who read the magazine read those items. Currently the Gossip Fence has taken the most pages in the magazine for any one item and I do think in the future we will see fewer pages here. I will have to be a little more selective in what news articles I put in this section. Rather interesting to me was that almost every type of article that we have published in the magazine it showed at least half of those who responded read.
One new series that has been started but was not asked about in the survey is “Busting Down the Closet Door”. This is a series of stories from girls telling how they came from the closet and also stories of how they told their wife of their transgender needs. Currently I have enough of these stories to continue for at least another six months. It is my hope that those who are seeking to come out of the closet will gain value from these stories and that they will give them the information and encouragement to emerge from their own closet.
In asking how to improve the magazine the one thing asked the most for was more pictures. Currently 6 ALL contestants for the cover girl contest were printed in the magazine. Those that did not make cover girl or calendar girl were put in the Angels In the Centerfold section. The more entries that we have there, the more photos there will be for that section. I have noticed that since Yahoo changed to their new neo format there have been fewer entries to our cover girl contest. I know working anything new is always a pain, but hopefully as time goes on more and more of you girls will learn to work the new system and we will return to the larger number of girls entering the cover girl contest.
In additions it was asked for themes. Starting with our next issue we will have them. Next month will be Summer Fun (get your summer fun photos in for that girls) and I plan a September Bride layout for September, Halloween Costumes for October, and Christmas photos for December. These will not be contest and you will not be limited to only one photo. (I may have to limit some if too many come in, but will include ALL who submit a photo for the theme)
Size, the size of the magazine does pose some problems. I originally create the magazine using Microsoft Publisher and then I let publisher convert it to a PDF file so everyone can read it. With my old XP computer I was using a version of Acrobat that was intended for Windows 95 and worked even with XP, but I discovered that that version will not work with my current Windows 7 computer. Acrobat did a far better job of compressing the file and as a result the file size now is about twice the size it was using Acrobat. Living on a fixed income I cannot afford the current version of Acrobat. (about $260) A problem is that Yahoo Groups will only allow files up to 5 MB and as a result I must put the magazine in the group files in sections. (currently usually 3) Publisher does not really let me do this so I must make like 4 copies of the publisher file and then start deleting pages. Of course for part 2 and 3 this changes the page numbering.
Will the magazine get any bigger? I may allow it to get a few more pages larger, but of course it would affect file size which is currently between 10MB and 12MB. For those who get the magazine direct from me I don’t think there would be any problem on this end, however some e-mail clients may limit the size of attachments to an e-mail that you receive.
Producing the magazine has been a labor that I enjoy doing and hope to continue doing for many more years. (since I am retired I do have the time) 7 Busting Down The Closet Door
My first time out By: Barbara Jean
During the time when I was in my 20’s I really had no choice but to remain in the closet, being out only to a very select few people. One of the reasons for this is that I was in the Military and discovery of my being transgendered would result in a discharge that would be of less than honorable conditions. I did dress at home and with both my first and second wife I did inform them of my crossdressing before we were married. While my first wife said she would accept, it turned out she did not and left after only six weeks of marriage. My second wife not only accepted, but was supportive and our marriage lasted for 22 years before she passed away. In 1976 my son was born and just about right from the start he did see me enfemme. In later years it did pose some problems of him telling friends and neighbors, but most did not pay much attention, except for the kids especially when it was teenage years.
I guess it was about 1985 or 1986, I had been promised a raise at work for about six months, but was always told when business was a little better. I come to find out one day that in order to get our secretary to come to work for us full time they would match what she was making at her old job and pay her insurance, something that I was not getting. Finally one day I decided that I was either going to get that raise or be fired. It was Barbara that came to work that day. Well the boss looked and asked what this was all about and I told him that when a secretary was worth more than a technician I would switch. Well rather than being fired I got a forty dollar a week raise.
Of course I really was not out in public yet though. It was a few years later, a trip to Atlanta for a Sigma Epsilon meeting, and later a shopping trip with another sister to a few thrift shops and a mall. The trip to the mall did not turn out good due to some teenage boy trying to show himself up to his buddies. But then it was shortly thereafter that a couple other sisters and me started the first TG group in Memphis. It was out to get refreshments, and do a little shopping at a couple of stores. Everything went good then. The meeting was in a hotel and we had drinks at the hotel bar and ate at the hotel restaurant.
That group did not last long in Memphis but moved to Little Rock Ar. With the help of another person another group was started, this time it was an open group for all where the first was a TRI-ESS group. Once again it was for me to pick up refreshments and such. One of the members of that group was a minister who was attending seminary there in Memphis for her masters degree and invited me to attend church at Holy Trinity, the then only “gay” church in Memphis. I initially attended as Jim, but then one day there was to be the first Pride march and it would happen right after church that day. I attended as Barbara with no problems and then there was the march. Now just before the march I was interviewed by the local paper and they had taken photos of me during the march. The next day my picture was right 8 on the front page of the metro section of our paper. The local radio stations were also talking about me and about how I was married and had kids and how they all knew and approved.
Since that time I had gone out more and more. There were periods in Memphis where I did not have a car and thus I had to rely on the local bus service for transportation. This too I did while enfemme. In 2000 I took a trip to Washington D.C. for the Millennium March on Washington and traveled from Memphis to Washington via Greyhound bus all while enfemme.
My trips out enfemme while living in Memphis were to malls, stores and restaurants. I also made a trip to Alabama and to Missouri enfemme.
In 2010 I made the move to Las Vegas Nv. Prior to departing Memphis I discarded all my male clothing driving from Memphis to Las Vegas, a three day trip enfemme, staying in motels at night and eating out in restaurants and buying gas in unfamiliar towns all while enfemme.
Since that day I have been living as Barbara 24/7. While my drivers license does have my male name on it and still has the M for a sex designator, it does have a photo of Barbara along with my discount card for the local bus service.
Expert Tips for Makeup That Lasts Source: Bride's magazine
Love is eternal, but what about your look? Will it last through the day or evening? We asked three celebrity makeup artists—Sonia Kashuk, of Sonia Kashuk Cosmetics; Matin, for Laura Mercier; and Mally Roncal, of Sephora—how they keep models and movie stars fresh-faced and fabulous. For a visage that stays vibrant all day long, select a category below.
Primer & Foundation Eye Shadow, Liner & More Blush & Powder Lipsticks, Stains & More
Primer & Foundation Foundation on bare skin? No way. A primer is the right product to fill in pores and lines so makeup glides on evenly. "It keeps your makeup from separating," explains Matin, a makeup artist for Laura Mercier, who favors a lightweight formula containing polymethylmethacrylate. "It gives a softer overall look, and imperfections like blemishes and redness won't be as obvious." And just a pearl- size dab will do. Try Nars Makeup Primer veils the skin with soothing botanicals to create a sparkling canvas for foundations and concealers, $30. 9 Need some extra camouflage? Choose a cover-up made for your specific problem— hiding ruddy patches, lightening dark areas, erasing spots, or evening-out skin tone.
Candy-colored cosmetics: M.A.C Select Cover-Up in tints such as Peach, Green, and Violet correct un-perfect skin, $12.50 each.
If primer is a budget buster, use a good, light moisturizer—it's the next best thing for helping makeup hold its ground. And give your moisturizer or primer time to sink in; wait at least 10 minutes before applying foundation.
You can't go wrong taking a minimalist approach to makeup—foundation applied lightly stays on longer, say our experts. Oil-free liquids and dual-finish products are less likely to move; in a humid climate, stick to the latter or try a powder formulation.
Spray misty for me: A featherweight finish is yours with Sally Hansen Fast and Flawless Airbrush Makeup, $7.99.
Does the way you apply foundation affect its longevity? For nonpowder formulations, Mally Roncal of Sephora puts her faith in fingers: "You really work the makeup into the skin."
Once you've set your foundation with powder, forget creams or liquids for touch- ups—they won't adhere. Instead, dust on a matching pigmented powder where you need it.
With Almay Nearly Naked Touch-Pad Liquid Makeup, just one dab with your finger- tip delivers the right amount of sheer coverage, $8.95.
For a concealer that lasts, choose one with a dry consistency. "Remember that you'll be smiling and crying a lot, so don't overload it around the eyes," says Matin. Always apply it after your foundation.
Eye Shadow, Liner & More
For maximum staying power and glamour, go with a liquid liner, but be sure to practice, practice, practice. For easier control and application, your best bet is an eyeliner pencil, which creates a softer look. Welling up? No problem when you use soft-touch pencils that tough-out tears. Try Laura Mercier Long-Wear Eye Pencil, $16; Christian Dior Aquadior Eyeshadow, $19; L'Oreal Wear Infinite Long Lasting Powder Eye Liner, $7. Looking for color that won't quit? Be sure to prep lids with foundation, loose powder, or eye primer, says Sonia Kashuk.
Unless you're going for Audrey Hepburn eyes, Matin suggests you dot liquid liner 10 between your lashes and smudge with a small brush to blend—the technique adds definition without hardness—'then cover liner with a matching powder eye shadow to set the look.
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner has what it takes to resist heat, humidity, and tears, $18 each.
Drooping eyebrow hairs tend to draw the whole face down. To keep them on the up and up, once you've added color, comb your brows into place with a clear eyebrow gel or mascara-style brush spritzed with hair spray.
Our experts agree: Waterproof mascara is the only guarantee against raccoon eyes and streak-stained cheeks. It tends to get dry and gunky over time, so unless you're a Tammy Faye Baker fan, spring for a new tube.
Revlon ColorStay Overtime Lash Tint goes even further than waterproof mascara, taking you through the cake cutting and beyond to darken and define your fluttery fringe for up to three days(!), $7.50.
Cream eye shadows don't have to crease. The newest formulas have special additives that promise greater adhesion and water resistance. One caveat: They set quickly, says Kashuk, so deft application is essential.
Whether you opt for powder or cream eye shadow, think thin—apply as little product as possible. Your look will last longer, and it will be easy to build depth layer by layer. Toss the little sponge-tip applicators that come with shadows. They deposit too much color on the lid. Instead, use a small brush to sweep on powder, shaking off any excess.
A berry luscious palette pleaser that's good enough to eat: Chanel Quadra Eye Shadow in Blue Notes, $53.50.
Blush & Powder
For a glow that stays incandescent all day, try layering your blush, suggests Sonia Kashuk. If you've already applied liquid or cream foundation, start with a cream blush, dusting it with translucent pow- der, then brush on a powder blush.
Try Clarins blush brush and Powder Blush in Rose Petal, $27; Neutrogena Soft Color Blush in Soft Suede, $9.75; Lancôme Blush Subtil in Miel Glacé, $25.50; T. LeClerc Powder Blush in Rose Sable, $25; Max Factor Natural Brush-On Satin Blush in Mulberry, $6.80; Pur Minerals Pressed Powder Bronzer, $15; Max Factor Natural Brush-On Satin Blush in Plumberry and Peach Spice, $6.80 each.
11 Unless you're adept at blending quickly, leave the new paint blushes, which go on creamy then dry to a powder, to the experts. "This type of color tends to go on really bright," says Matin, a makeup artist for Laura Mercier,"so you have to be very light-handed."
Blush is the makeup that's likeliest to fade first, so it's tempting to overcompensate by choosing a darker or more saturated color. But to look naturally flushed—not clownish—choose a blush that's the color of your chest, palms, or fingertips. "That way you're putting back the red tone that the foundation masks," says Matin.
The key to locking in liquid or cream foundation is loose powder; pressed powder does a better job of reducing shine.
A stroke of genius: Caron's Poudre Peau Fine, here (from left) in Invisible, Sable, and Peau Ambre, delivers the scent of Bulgarian Rose Absolute along with its pigmented coverage in a fine powder, $45. Sweep it on with Caron's fan brush, $20.
Choose the tool that's going to best deposit a thin veil of loose powder evenly. Sonia Kashuk of Sonia Kashuk Cosmetics and Mally Roncal of Sephora like big, full brushes; Matin prefers a velour powder puff that you fold in half and roll into the skin.
Translucent powders can look a bit ghostly on some complexions. To avoid resembling Marilyn Manson in a wedding dress, try using a pigmented powder with a little hint of yellow in it, suggests Roncal, for the most natural look.
Lipsticks, Stains & More
Sharply defined lips in bright colors were all the rage in the 1990s, but that was so last millennium. The new era has ushered in a much more delicate look. To go gossamer, Sonia Kashuk smoothes a bit of foundation on the edges of the lips before adding any color, which also prevents feathering around fine lines.
Going the distance: Cover Girl's Outlast Pearls All-Day Lipcolor Shimmer in Rose Pearl resists food oils without parching your pout, $9.50 (also includes a moisturizing top coat).
You may be wearing white, but stains can be a good thing—at least when they're on your lips, where they sink into the skin and repel oil. (Take that, Caesar salad!) Keep in mind, however, that a stain isn't a rich look and can even cause lips to become dry; to sustain shine and moisture throughout your wedding day, you'll have to continually top it off with gloss.
12 The new math: It's protection cubed in the form of Estée Lauder's Pure Color Lip Vinyl, with mineral waxes that form a barrier to help block color-busters, $20 each. To set your color like the experts, line and fill in your lips with pencil. Brush on your lipstick and blot with tissue, then reapply. Matin, a makeup artist for Laura Mercier, likes to separate a tissue into two layers, then uses one layer as a lip screen, dusting translucent powder over it with a big brush.
Sustainable shine: Shu Uemura's Rouge 4 lipsticks deliver intense color and weightless texture while retaining moisture, $20 each.
It's not just a wedding—it's an hours-long kiss-fest. And although you love the look of gloss, it may not be quite your father-in-law's style. To stop the shine from settling on your guests, apply a small dab of gloss in the center of your bottom lip. It's just enough coverage—your lips' natural movement will distribute the gloss evenly—without sticking it to your receiving line.
Matin warns brides to avoid wearing bright lip colors. "They smudge the most," he explains. "Some reds, for example, bleed a lot more than soft peaches and pinks. It's just the pigment formulation."
Pencil this into your schedule: Molton Brown Perfect Lips Stayfast Definer Lip Liner softly outlines while fighting feathering. Your bonus: a brush at the other end for blending, $18.
Have your wedding cake and eat it, too—just make sure to touch up afterward. First, blot your lips with a tissue to remove any excess oils, then reapply your color. Rather than tissue off smears outside your lips, dab them with some pressed 11 easy ways to make your eyes look bigger
By Lexi Novak
Colorful eyeliner, the right shade of concealer, and a swipe (or two, or three) of mascara. Just a few simple tweaks to your makeup routine is all it takes to emphasize your eyes.
Get a smooth start Shar-peis are cute. Puffy, wrinkly eyes are not. Adhesive eye pads like SK-II Signs Eye Mask ($110) calm inflammation and zap swelling in five to ten minutes flat.
13 "What also works wonders is anything cold," says makeup artist Susie Sobel. "Even a bag of ice." And try dabbing a silicone-based primer on crow's-feet to soften and fill lines. We like Smashbox Photo Finish Oil-Free Foundation Primer ($49.95 for jumbo size).
Even out Dark circles can make your eyes appear smaller. The right concealer can work double—even triple—duty on darkness and discoloration. It can also illuminate the entire eye area and draw attention to darker lashes. Choose a shade that's slightly lighter and warmer than your skin to brighten and correct any blue or purple tones.
Sobel likes to blend the product underneath the eyes and around them, as well as over the lids to really get a uniform base.
Curl up
Every woman owns an eyelash curler. Most of us forget to use it! You'll regret never spending that extra 20 seconds to curl your lashes. It can immediately make your eyes appear wider and more open.
"If someone's lashes are straight, they can cast a shadow on the eye area," says Sobel. "So I'll always curl them no matter what."
Mascara, mascara, mascara!
Did we mention mascara? Apply a lengthening formula, like Tom Ford Extreme Mascara ($42), along the upper and lower lashes to create wide, doe eyes, and then brush a thickening coat over the top for even flirtier, more battable lashes. Sobel likes to use rubber bristle wands, like CoverGirl LashBlast Clump Crusher Mascara ($11), to grab and bulk fine lashes without clumping. And for extra credit, focus an additional swipe near the center of the upper lash line to really draw the eyes upward.
Draw a tight line To enhance your lashes (notice a trend here?) and frame your eyes, apply a super skinny strip of black liquid liner along the base of your upper lashes. Felt -tipped options, like Marc Jacobs Beauty Magic Marc'er Precision Pen ($42.90), deposit rich, inky color while providing control and precision. "And I always like to do a tiny flick at the end just to pull the eye out a bit," says Sobel. 14
Consider color
Pencil liners are also effective. If you've worn out your brown and black eye pencils to nubs, you might be in a makeup-color rut. Try easing your way out with navy liner, like L'Oréal Paris Double Extend Eye Illuminator Eyeliner in Black Sapphire ($6.39)—it makes eyes appear whiter (read: bigger).
As for shadows, vibrant shades such as aqua, silver, or pink look best on bare lids "with a lot of mascara and a groomed brow," says Sobel. Lavender eye shadow is universally flattering and brightening. And a dark color blended into the outer corners is perfect for an evening look. Just avoid matte formulas, since they tend to look dated and don't reflect light.
Bottom out
Drawing perfectly seductive almond-shape eyes à la Angelina Jolie eyes is a breeze with the right technique. Take your pencil "from the center of the lash line out, and make it a little thicker on the outer corners," says Sobel.
Otherwise, "if it's too thick in the middle, you'll get round, panda eyes, which doesn't help give you a nice, wide shape that's lifted at the edges." Then smudge away any harsh lines with a cotton swab or clean eye-shadow brush.
Lighten the waterline
Filling in this area with a dark liner can look sultry paired with smoky, dif- fused eye shadow, but it can also make your eyes look about half their size. For a bigger-is-better effect, color the waterline with a flat, white eye pencil to instantly open and brighten them. We love NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner in Santa Monica Blvd. ($24).
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Define your eyelid crease
"I know it's been this way forever, but putting a medium brown eye shadow in the crease is always good," says Sobel. To avoid looking like a 90210 star, use a fluffy crease brush to sweep a matte formula in an arc from the outer corners all the way to the centers of the eyes.
Highlight
There's a reason that even in #nofilter selfies, models seem incapable of taking a bad picture (and it's not just their unfairly superhuman genes): They know how to find the light or at least fake it.
A pearly eye shadow or highlighter dabbed on the centers of the lids, under- neath the brow bones, and on the inner corners makes eyes look lifted and awake. Look for warm, rosy cream colors if your skin has pink undertones. Golden shades complement yellow and olive skin. And in a pinch, Sobel says, blending an extra dot of concealer on the inner corners and applying some heavy cream above the arches of the brows can also make a huge difference.
Shape up your brows
Groomed arched eyebrows create a flattering frame for the eyes. And anything that accentuates the eyes is going to make them appear larger. Tweeze away stray hairs—Sobel recommends cleaning up the areas above and below brows—and then fill in any gaps with an eyebrow pencil, such as Surratt Expressioniste Brow Pencil ($25 for the refillable pencil holder, $15 for the refills) or Clé de Peau Beauté Eyebrow Pencil ($25). Then brush brows up (this is key) and over with a spoolie for clean, defined shape. 16 At-home hair removal: Will it ever get easier? By Amanda Storey
A vintage photo of a women having her eyebrows shapedEvery woman I have ever known has battled with face and body hair removal. Whether it's your eyebrows, facial hair, underarms or bikini line, we've all taken it off at some point, somehow. Finding the right depilatory method can be very frustrating, painful and expensive. Many women make monthly (or weekly, depending on how quickly their hair grows!) trips to salons for waxing, threading and sugaring. Some women are able to control their hair in the privacy of their own home with shaving, depilatory creams, hair removal tools and at-home waxing kits. And then there are those of us who turn to technology and invest in laser hair removal treatments or electrolysis.
No matter how you look at it, removing facial and body hair is a burden. My literal "dark secret" is that I have very dark hair and it likes to pop up on my upper lip, my legs, my bikini line and occasionally in weird places. I don't have any hormonal problems and I am in perfect health. This is just my lot in life and I started dealing with it at around ten years old. Before I even shaved my legs, I was slathering depilatory cream onto my upper lip because a boy at school pointed and laughed at my "mustache".
Fair skin and dark hair are not the ideal conditions for a young woman entering into the grown-up world of hair removal. If I shave my legs at night, there is visible stubble by morning. I must address my underarms on a daily basis. Facial hair must be curbed every few days. It's exhausting. Many people might say, "just be natural", and for those who embrace that lifestyle, I fully support it. Hair removal, or lack thereof, is a personal choice and no woman should feel pressured by the media or anyone else in her life when it comes to how much or how little she wants to groom herself. Personally, I prefer to have less hair and that is what has led me on the journey to finding the ultimate solution when it comes to at-home facial and body hair removal.
A vintage NAIR depilatory cream advertisement. NAIR has come along way, but it still doesn't work for me.Hair Removal Creams a.k.a Depilatory Creams
A lot has changed in the world of depilatory creams since I first chemi- cal-burned my upper lip when I was ten. New and gentle "for face" and sensitive skin formulas have made melting your facial hair a little less risky.
Here are a few products I have tried and my experiences:
NAIR Face Cream- ($4.27) NAIR is the first product you think of when it comes to depilatory creams. As a little girl I remember walking in on my mom in the bathroom and wondering why she had a white creamy mustache on while she applied her eye makeup! The newer formulas of NAIR are much better than they used to be, but still far too harsh for my skin. They smell really bad and that is not helpful if you are trying to be discreet 17 about your facial de-fuzzing. Post NAIR, my skin has a rash and it's red and extremely angry at me even if I leave the cream on for the minimum amount of time. I recently tried the "sensitive skin face cream" and quite simply it did not remove my upper lip hair at all. However, our Shopping Editor, Krista DeWeese, uses the sensitive version with great success. For this product, I recommend using it for the minimum time stated and moving the time up if that doesn't work.
Olay Hair Removal DuoOlay Facial Hair Removal Duo- ($22.88) The day I saw the Olay Facial Hair Removal Duo at the drugstore the heavens opened up and angels trumpeted. I was so excited that there was another option to rid of my 'stache and that it was being offered by a trusted brand! I bought it immediately and waited patiently for my upper lip hair to present itself. My heart was full of hope that this would be my dream product, but sadly it was not.
I left the cream on for the minimum amount of time and checked myself in the mirror, Tom Selleck peered back at me. I slathered on more Olay hair removal cream and tried to wish the hair away. The time I gave this stuff to do it's job far exceeded the recommended time listed on the box and I still walked away with the same amount of upper lip hair I started with. I paid over $20 for this product, so with no embarrassment at all I headed back to the drugstore and promptly asked for a refund. Luckily the sales associate did not ask for any explanation and gave me my money back.
Bliss "Fuzz Off"- ($24)
This hair removal cream retails $24, quite a bit more than the drugstore items, and it did not remove my facial hair at all. I could have rubbed cool whip on my face and had a better experience.
The only positive is that it smells better than any other hair removal cream I have used. I think the smelly stuff is what removes hair best.
Palmer's "No Blade" Cream- ($6.60)
Finally, a cream that worked for me! Sure, it stinks, but it works. I slather it on for a few minutes and then tissue it off. If I leave it on for about three to four minutes my hair is gone and my skin isn't irritated. I don't recommend using this product in the shower though. It tends to spread a bit, especially with the moisture from the shower. A little dab on the upper lip may expand into a Hulk Hogan mustache and end up removing hair far outside the borders of your intended application. The 4.4 oz tube will last you several months. Palmer's can be used on legs, arms, underarms and even the stubborn bikini area. 18 Braun Silk Epil 7Hair Removal Tools
Electric Epilators - Electric epilators have been torturing women since the early 1980's. These at-home hair removal gadgets consist of coils and tweezer-like wheels that rotate across skin and extract any hair in its path from the root.
I have tried many different electric epilators, most recently the Braun Silk- epil ($87), and they are just too painful to integrate into my hair removal regime. I'm getting tense just thinking about it! If you have a high pain threshold, you can get great results from a device like this.
The "Tweezy" at-home hair removal tool"The Tweezy" and other coiled hair removal tools - I recently did a review of the "Tweezy" at-home hair removal tool and readers brought it to my attention that there are many other coiled tools that work in the same manner and may be more affordable.
For around $3 you can purchase the "MySpring It" threading tool on Amazon.com.
How it works: Lay the threading tool onto the area you want to remove hair. Bend and twist the tool to get hair lodged into the coils. Twist the handles to remove hair by the root. Sounds simple, but using these types of tools takes practice and care. You could pinch your skin or break the hair rather than completely remove it. The biggest deterrent from using a coiled hair removal tool for me is the pain. I don't think I'll ever get used to the jolt of pain that surges through me when I try to at-home thread my upper lip or face. Another unfortunate side-affect is the breakouts I experience after using these types of hair removal methods.
System Jo Women All-Over Body Shaving Gel PureShaving
Shaving is the depilation method I started with and still struggle with on a daily basis. I have used expensive razors (ALL razors and refills are expensive!) and medicated sensitive-skin shaving creams. I've shaved in the direction of hair growth and at the end of my shower. I've done everything right when it comes to shaving and I still experience razor bumps, ingrown hair and rashy irritated skin. It's awful.
My saving graces have been my men's Gillette Mach3 razor ($8) and System Jo Women All-Over Body Shaving Gel Pure ($12.24).
Yes, I use a men's razor. Why? I don't need a pink and purple flowery razor to make me feel like a woman. I don't need a slim handle or a mango-scented lubrication strip. I need a razor that works and 19 can handle my dark, coarse leg hair. I wish I was a hairless delicate flower that could use a goddess- inspired razor, but I'm not so it's the race car inspired Mach3 for me.
The System Jo Women All-Over Body Shaving Gel Pure is the absolute best shaving gel I have ever used and I discovered it by accident. A dear friend of mine was working for System Jo and sent me a care package of products to try. This unscented, extremely gentle and extremely slippery shave gel was among the products, and I haven't been without it since. The unique formula allows the razor to glide easily over my skin and the gentle unscented formula makes it ideal for sensitive areas. The 8-ounce bottle retails around $10 and could last for at least 4-5 months, even with daily use.
Tria Hair Removal Laser 4XTechnology for a hairless, dol- phin-like, body
A few years back I finally broke down and invested in a few rounds of laser hair removal. During the consultation I was told that my hair and skin tone made me the ideal candidate for especially stellar results. I think I skipped out of the doctors office!
When I got home I sat down and really thought about the procedure. There were definitely some risks involved including burns and darkening of the skin. I decided to test out laser hair removal on my bikini-line. This is an area I have always struggled with as far as irritation and ingrown hair (multiple hospital visits) and if the laser removal went awry and burned off my skin, at least I could hide it. Laser hair removal is not pleasant, quick or cheap. Have you ever been snapped by a rubber band? Imagine that same sensation over and over again across the skin of your most sensitive areas. That's what laser hair removal feels like and it can take thousands of laser pulses to get hairless results.
I completed four treatments and I still have to deal with hair on my bikini line. I was told six treatments would be ideal, but unfortunately at a cost of $1 per laser pulse I couldn't afford to continue. A few years have gone by and it seems I am exactly where I started. The four rounds of laser hair removal did not seem to have any permanent effect. This negative experience has left me a little suspicious of the new at- home laser hair removal systems, but I went ahead and researched them anyway.
Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X-
Like I said, I was skeptical about the effectiveness of at-home laser hair removal systems. But after reading pages and pages of reviews for the Tria Hair Removal Laser 4X, I find myself feeling hopeful and tempted to invest in the $449 tool. Most reviewers had great results with dedicated use and the initial hefty price tag seems warranted when you consider the longterm savings. Waxing at salons can cost upwards of a thousand dollars a year. Razors, refill cartridges and shave creams can set you back hundreds as well, so $449 dollars for permanent at-home results seems like a nice investment. Unfortunately, this product is not suitable for all skin tones. On the Tria website, there is an online skin tone test to help you decide if this will work for you. Since Tria's laser needs to find the pigment of the hair in order to zap it, the hair has to be dark and the skin tone has to be much lighter than the hair. This will not work on white, grey, red or blonde hairs. 20 NoNo HairNo!No! Hair ($270) I am not the only person searching for the ultimate hair removal product on the Yahoo Shopping team. Our Editor Krista DeWeese has Hashimoto's thyroid disease, which causes excessive hair to appear in places women shouldn't have hair. She tried the popular as seen on TV NoNo Hair device with some success.
"I found out about the No!No! from watching a YouTube demo. I was impressed with how quick the hair was removed and how long it took to grow back. What was not mentioned in the video was how the product actually worked - by singeing the hairs off. The smell of burning hair in the bathroom carried through the entire house, and my family had to leave the house until I could fan away the awful fumes. The major plus about the No! No! is that there is no pain, no stubble left behind, no breakouts and no water is wasted. Buffing away the singed hairs with a round sandpaper-like tool is the last step when using the No!No! and while doing that, you are also receiving a nice exfoliation! "
After hearing Krista's testimony, I was curious to try this myself, but she did mention some downsides: "The No!No! works best on the legs and arms, even the bikini line is easy. But when you're trying to maneuver around your chin or lip, you have to make several passes around those areas in order to zap those hairs. Overall, the product works well and does work miracles on that annoying peach fuzz on the slides of the face. The price point is a bit high initially, but since I've owned the product over 2 years, it has paid for itself. " Waxing hurts!The sticky hair removal methods Waxing and Sugaring-
There are a few different at-home waxing methods. You can go ahead and buy the wax warming pot, the wax, the sticks and the muslin strips and create your own little waxing salon right in your bathroom. You can buy the pre-made wax strips that are cut to fit different areas of your body. And there's also the little mugs of wax that you can heat in the microwave.
I have a wax pot with the supplies and I love it, but buying wax, muslin and sticks can get expensive and you have to store all of these supplies. The pre-made sticky strips have never worked for me and I have burned myself pretty badly trying to microwave wax over and over again in a mug. Besides the care it takes to heat wax properly to a non-scalding level, there is the care and technique it takes to properly remove the strip (and hopefully the hair) itself. I have "lifted" or torn my skin, I have badly bruised my bikini area and I have broken hairs off by trying to quickly and clumsily rip off a wax strip. Some people are awesome at waxing and sugaring themselves, but if you're not experienced it is best to leave these types of hair removal to the experts.
As I was writing this blog I started to realize how many hair removal methods I have tried and how truly dissatisfied I am with all of them. It's crazy that I can find anything in the world on the internet, my "pocket computer" can tell me the exact moment my bus will arrive and whether I need an umbrella but for some reason my upper lip hair has mystified this entire planet of scientists and inventors! 21 The Adventures of Judy Sometimes by: Judy Danials
Skirts On The Run
A little over a week ago our friend Karen's mother past away, shortly after getting the news a few of us made plans to attend the service which was on Saturday. She is from a small town called Ashby, MN. which is about 80 miles southeast of Fargo, somewhat in the area of our cabin. After some discussion it was decided we would make an adventure out of this road trip as the service and all that ensued would be a done deal shortly after lunch time. While out at trivia Thursday night I brought up the subject of attire for the funeral. We are all of the era that thinks its proper to wear a dress/skirt or at the very least dress pants, anything other than jeans like so many young people of both genders seem to think is OK now a days. We all agreed that a dress or some sort of skirt outfit would be the way to go. I ended up wearing the same outfit I wore to the funeral of my crossdressing friend Brenda some 6 weeks ago, a tunic style top with a self belt, a pencil skirt and boots all in brown tones. To spice the outfit up a bit I included my turquiose necklace, earring and bracelet set along with my usually rings. Even though temps were in the single digits I decided to go with my leather car coat rather than my heavy winter jacket since we wouldn't be spending anytime outside. Our adventure got under way shortly after 9 am, as we weren't quite sure how the roads would be after getting a rain/snow storm the day before. Usually the trip would take about a hour and 20 minutes or so, but we thought we should leave room in case the roads were icy. As it turned out the roads were great and we were in Ashby about 45 minutes before the service. Not having ever been there we ended up taking a little tour of the area which included a drive around Pelican Lake just north of town. I've always enjoyed checking out the scenery of other lakes especially the cabins and the drive took up just enough time for us to arrive at the church about 15 minutes before, enough time to sign the guest book, hang our coats and greet family mem- bers. Although Karen and her kids, her ex husband and boyfriend know me well, this would be the first time meeting her brothers and sisters and extended family. There was one moment of discomfort when Karen started introductions and introduced me as Dan/Judy, no one seemed to get to shook up with the realization of what was standing in front of them and everyone seemed to live through it, lol. Eventually we made our way into the sanctuary and were part of a beautiful service for this wonderful 86 year old women. We hadn't planned on staying for the brunch in the basement of the church after, but Karen's sister personally came up to us and asked us to join in so we felt obligated to do so. 22 If you've ever been to a Lutheran funeral you certainly know what to expect as far as the food goes and the spread didn't disappoint anyone. The main course was your standard hamburger hotdish, along with several different jello choices, buttered bread and enough desserts to make you go into a diabetic coma. Since we had planned on stopping for appetizers on our way back we went a bit light on the goodies. The highlight of the this whole church/funeral expierence definitely left me feeling kind of special. As we sat waiting for our table to fill, Karen came by and asked me to save a couple spots for her and her daughter Jenna, seems Jenna had asked her if she could sit next to me (eyes getting moist) while eating our lunch. I'm not quite sure what this 9 year old girl's fascination is with me as I really haven't had much contact with her over the years other than a couple visits to their house and a bra decorating event during last November's Breast Cancer Awareness event at the Fargo Civic. I haven't asked Karen if she has had a talk with her about me or not, but I'm going to just assume she knows about me and doesn't really care...as it should be. Of course after a long drive, eating lunch and sipping on coffee it eventually leads to needing the ladies room and since we were going to be hitting the road again I thought it best I use the facilities before leaving. Luckily the bathrooms in the church basement were one holers so running into any kind of uncomfortable situation was easily avoidable...or was it. I rounded the corner to enter the bathroom and as luck would have it the door was locked. I saw that the mens room door was ajar so for a moment I thought about slipping in doing my business and being done with it, but proper etiquette took over and I decided to wait. I ended up standing in the hallway where the bathrooms were for what seemed like an eternity. I actually thought for a moment that whoever used the bathroom before me accidently locked the door on their way out. Finally the door opened and I saw why my wait was so long. As we were making our way to the basement for lunch there was a little old lady who was having a terrible time getting down the stairs due to her age and physical capablities...guess who popped out of the bathroom ? Anyway, as she passed by me she looked up and said to me, wasn't that a beautiful service ? In that moment I nearly burst out laughing as anyone who would have seen us together at that second would have gotten quite a site. With my 3" heels I must have been a good 14" to16" taller than she was, lol. I answered, yes, it was very beautiful and then dashed into the bathroom. Of course as I did my business the door handle rattled a couple of times so I felt pressured to try and huury, but I wanted to powder my nose and touchup my lipstick so I took my sweet time. Upon exiting their were two ladies in the hall, neither seemed to notice anything out of the ordinary, but then, I'm not as observant as I used to be. Eventually we said our goodbyes to Karen, her sister and few others and then made our way outside to begin the rest of the day. Our agenda was to stop by our cabin on the way back to Fargo so we planned our course appropriately. There is a cool little bar in Dent, MN. called Peg Legs that we frequent during the lake season so thats where we thought we would stop for a drink and some appetizers. Upon arriving we were surprised to see that the place had changed its name to the DOUG OUT and had added an off sale as well as updated the bathrooms. Despite all the changes the clientele was definitely still blue collar as most of the men sat in coveralls and the ladies were in hoodies and jeans. You can imagine the looks we got when we all walked in wearing our skirts and dresses...oh well, being well dressed Dive Bar Girls we're used to the attention, lol. We each ordered a drink and an appetizer to share and I must say they had definitely improved the 23 quaility of their food too. Our cabin was another 30 or so minutes down the road and by now it was nearly 3:00 so we settled up and headed out into the frozen tundra. We knew we wouldn't be able to drive into where our cabin is as the road usaully doesn't clear of snow until at least mid April...if all goes right with Mother Nature anyway. So we just made sure it was still standing from a distance and then hit the road back to Fargo. Of course being thirsty girls we decided to stop by Specks before calling it a day. The place was pretty busy when we walked in, but a couple of the regulars made space for us and thus began a couple hours of good conversation and plans for the upcoming summer which may include lakeside camping on Lake Superior in late June just north of Duluth...COME ON SANDAL SEASON ! Judy (its a wonderful life) sometimes
The Exploits of Barbara Marie by: Barbara Marie Davidson
A CATCHING UP OF THINGS SINCE JANUARY 2014 BY BARBARA MARIE
Again I wish congratulate Liz for being the Pretty T Girls Silver Cover girl for May 2014 and Emma for being our Calendar Girl. Also I want to thank all of you who took the time to vote for me for the Golden Cover girl for May a well. It was a great Birthday Present as I will be 71 in May. I also want to thank all of you who took the time to participate in Barbara Jean’s poll about the articles in the PTG magazine. Our magazine is one of the finest on line magazines that I have seen. It is you; the members who support it with articles and comments that appear in it that make it worthwhile to read. I only wish that more folks would participate as I am sure that you/they have great stories to share.. I myself started my “writing” in 2008 after attending my first meeting of Sigma Epsilon, the Atlanta chapter of TriEss, in 2007. Since that time I have written about 60 articles concerning things and events that have happed along the way in my transition from M2F. I have also written several FYI only “historical” articles” with no TG/TS influence in them at all as they were strictly for you information only.
With the above being said, I started off the New Year by attending my first of two Robert Burn’s celebrations. In January I attended my first one wearing my “Bubba Skirt” – Kilt – as it was an all testerone organization of which I will be a fifty-year member of in 2015. The second one in February, I attended wearing a black top with a black and red sash (fire fighter tartan) over my shoulder and a long red skirt. I also made the haggis for that event as well. In March, I attended the first of three military functions that I will attend I the next few months. I was wearing a blue and white formal Vietnamese outfit when I went to the 212th Anniversary of the Savannah Volunteer Guards of which I have been a member of for about 10 years or more. (of note both of my son are associate members because of my 24 membership although neither have been in the military.) For me, I spent a total time of 26 years in my past life and am retired US Navy. picking” with the Savannah Association of Flying National Guardsmen as I was on flying status with the Georgia Air Na- tional guard for 4 ½ years as an aero medic in the 165th GAANG. The following day, I will be attending the 228th anni- versary of the Chatham Artillery of which I have been a member of for about 35 years now. Currently I am the only “female” in the CA association although the bylaws do allow females to join. It is just that no female in the National Guard that is flying the CA colors has applied to join.
The first weekend in May, I will attend two more functions. The first will be the Annual “pig picking” with the Savannah Association of Flying National Guardsmen as I was on flying status with the Georgia Air National guard for 4 ½ years as an
aero medic in the 165th GAANG. The following day, I will be attending the 237th anniversary of the Chatham Artillery of which I have been a member of for about 35 years now. Currently I am the only “female” in the CA association although the bylaws do allow females to join. It is just that no female in the National Guard that is flying the CA colors has applied to join. I am planning to wear either the “tangerine colored” Vietnamese outfit or the animal print sun dress that I wore to church last summer. I decided against the orange and went with the dress in the photo. You know, it’s a hard decision for a “woman” to make AS WHAT TO WEAR. One does not like to wear the same thing twice in a row to a function. Guys have no choice in the matter!!!
Several other things of great importance are going to happen in May as well. On the 5th of May, my house will be paid for “lock, stock and barrel”. It will be a great feeling. Sometime during the month, I Am planning on a “symbolic” mortgage burning party, complete with a bushel of crabs, shrimp, and maybe some Crab legs. All of my Vietnamese friend from the nail shop(s) will be helping me to celebrate it. The other item of interest is that “this Old (young) Girl” will be 71 years young on may 12th. I am considering using the one party for both my birthday and the mortgage burning party.
For the Georgia Southern classes, if one remembers, we did one in March with Phoebe, Rhonda, Sarah and my self-participating. The 25 next one is Friday may 23rd. It is my understanding that Claudia and Sandy are coming down for that one. It will be their first time giving a presentation. It will be the two of them and my self. We will have approximately two hours to give the presentation along with questions and answers from the students. The following Sunday, I will be giving a talk at the Universal Unitarian church in Brunswick, GA on being a M2F TG individual.
This one page, kind of sums everything that I have done or will be doing during the first 5 (five) months of 2014. I wish all of you in Sigma Epsilon a great time at the spring fling. I am looking forward to the photos.
Yours Barbara Marie Davidson
do definitions matter? our role in educating others by: Rhonda
Recently our local newspaper has run front-page articles on TG issues. The main questions being addressed locally are whether TGs should be admitted to all-female colleges, but there are other similar issues of genuine concern to many. The articles are generally excellent. However, a key item which I find misleading concerns the definition of "transgender." I don't enjoy debate about terms, but when it comes to making policy decisions, I think it important to understand how one defines one's terms in order that there be understanding as to who is/is not or should be encompassed by any decisions. I think most readers would conclude from the article that all TGs are trans-sexual, yet would probably also conclude that policy decisions would encompass anyone born one sex presenting as another, which would encompass cross-dressers as well as trans-sexuals. Regardless of where one stands on the issues, it seems to me critical that everyone at least understand the scope of what is being discussed and legislated.
Reference is made to a Williams Institute @UCLA School of Law population study, suggesting that perhaps 700,000 U.S. citizens are TG, and that this represents perhaps .1% of the popluation. I thought these numbers low, even if they referred only to trans-sexuals and not to what most TGs would, I think, consider part of the TG community. In the first place, the numbers are inconsistent, since .1% of the US population would be far less than 700,000. I saw reference to the same study in Tasi's Musings of the recent PTG newsletter. I suspect this study is getting wide press and could influence policy decisions, perhaps inappropriately, so I thought it worth reading. Here are some highlights:
- The 2009 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior concludes 5.6% of the population is LGB; other studies conclude results as low as 1.7%; - 2007 and 2009 MA Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Surveys conclude .5% of adults age 18-64 are TG; - A Conway 2002 study shows .5% of the population have strong TG feelings - A 2003 CA LGBT Survey concludes 3.2% of LGBTs are TG; A 2009 Health Interview Survey concludes 3.2% of LGBT are TG; the Williams Study therefore 26 estimates roughly 3.2% x 3.2% =.1% of the population is TG.
As stated above, this seems inconsistent with a conclusion that 700,000 are TG. It also seems on the low end of a range quoted as between .1% - .5% take steps to transition from one gender to another.
It is further stated that "TG" is defined as "those who have transitioned in some capacity." So the study would appear to reference only a portion of those who consider themselves trans-sexual. It would not seem to consider trans-sexuals who have NOT transitioned in some capacity, and would not even seem to touch cross-dressers and others who may present as female but have no desire to transition.
I think it important for those in our community to be aware of how statistics are being understood and used, as I think most reading articles such as these will jump to erroneous conclusions, and policy-makers will likely reach inaccurate conclusions as a result. Those impacted by decisions could be grossly understated or represented. It is up to our community, I think, to help educate where possible, if our interests are to be accurately represented.
I wrote the editor of the local articles, pointing out my concerns, and have tried to reach her by phone. I am hoping to meet, if she is receptive. While I am delighted to see attention drawn to these issues, I am concerned that even well-intentioned efforts can potentially mislead and ultimately do harm. I'd encourage any who are interested in such matters to review such issues and help educate, where possible.
What's the old saying, "Figures lie and liars figure"? A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing.
I hope these comments will not trigger a fire-fight on the meaning of terms, as that is not the point. But as long as terms are variously interpreted or mis-interpreted, no one stands to win.
Rhonda
27 Work With What You’ve Got Angela Gardner | (Reprinted from TG Forum)
Most of us who are inclined to crossdress as women want to look, as men say, “smokin’ hot.” Why dress up and look like a washer- woman or a bag lady? We want to be beautiful, alluring and sexy. Well, until scientists develop body swapping technology that can put your mind into a clone of Jennifer Beals’ body, CDs will have to make do with the equipment they’ve got.
Of course there is a lot you can do with silicone breast forms, Spandex® undergarments and the accessories that regular women use to project a more glamorus image. Without altering yourself physically you can look like you have nice breasts, show off a slim waistline and wear nude hose to make your legs look smooth and touchable. Wigs, makeup and can go along way to make you look like the ideal human female. It all can work for you if you have the Our inspiration, Jennifer Beals. right body type.
But what of those who aren’t 5’ 6” or under? What about crossdressers who have the need to doll up but have pot bellies, or thick body hair, barrel chests and over six foot heights? They want to look like the ideal human female too but, to be blunt, it ain’t gonna happen.
This doesn’t mean you should give up hope if you fall into one of those body types that is not conducive to hotness. You just have to do the best you can and work with what you’ve got. There are plenty of non-ideal female bodies to emulate. Just look around the next time you’re in a su- permarket or mall. There are tall women, round women and women who waddle more than they walk. There are women with thin hair, women with muffin top problems and women who look like men in dresses. They are out there walking around in public and living their lives. There’s no reason you can’t do the same. Women can be heavy.
Stand in front of your mirror, or better yet, set up a camera on a tripod. Take pictures of yourself in just underwear. Get the front, sides and back. Then go put on your clothes and take a look at the photos. 28
Identify the things about your body that are feminine features. Are your hips wider and more like a woman’s? Do you have some extra flesh in the breast area that can be pushed up with a bra and padding to give the illusion of full breasts? Make a note of all the things about yourself that work for female impersonation.
Then look at the photos and identify the masculine features that you need to overcome. Is there a rug on your chest? Is that chest bigger than a woman’s should be? Are your shoulders large? Glenn Close isn’t the perfect ideal.
After you have identified the femme positive and femme negative features you possess it’s time to consult expert advice like the articles found here on TGF or a book like JoAnn Roberts’ Art & Illusion. (Available in The Bookstand.) There are methods you can use to mini- mize the negative aspects and enhance the postive aspects. There are too many glamor tips and tricks for this article but there is much advice available on how to dress correctly to emulate any type of woman from the sexy ideal to a plain woman who is comfortable being who she is.
The final thought for this article is: learn femininity — not glamor. Glamor may be what we all strive for but if you create the perfect glam look and don’t ever learn to project femininity you will not be a success at being sexy as a woman. There are hundreds of body language cues that women, both attractive and not so attractive, put out that let the world know they are female. Crossdressers who either want to just blend in and be accepted or those who want to be seen as hotties on the prowl should learn to project those subtle clues of femininity. It takes observation and then assimilation. Look at women around you all the time. See what it is that makes the tall woman who is a size 14 seem as feminine as the petite 5’ 5” lady. Practice at home in front of a mirror or Some women are athletic. with a video camera.
Work with what you’ve got! Be the best woman you can be. Have fun!
29 Humor
Season Pass The female dormitory will be out-of- bounds for all male students, so too the male dormitory to the female students. Anybody caught breaking this rule will be fined $20 the first time. Anybody caught breaking this rule the second time will be fined $60. Being caught a third time will incur a hefty fine of $180. Are there any questions?"
At this, a male student in the crowd inquires, "Er... How much for a season pass?" 30 Angels In the Centerfold
Nina
Dee Gregory
Jonni 31
Andria Nicole Baker Liz Kelly
Trixi Deans 32
Heather Colleen
Rachel 33 A Special Thanks from Mellissa
I just want to thank you all, dear readers, for voting my column as the most-preferred in the maga- zine. I'm gratified and humbled by this, and, as I mentioned in this month's article, it couldn't have come at a better time for me. I was seriously considering taking some time off, with the other commitments I have going on in my life right now; the expression of support from this poll tells me that this might not be in my best interest.
I started writing for the magazine in 2008; it was a great magazine then, but much smaller. Rachel Wil- liston, the founder of the magazine and this site, was the editor, and worked her butt off to make the magazine amazing. She started the cover girl contest, and used to do interviews with the winners and other people as well. She had to depart in 2010 from the role, and Ms. Kylie Gingery stepped up to the plate for awhile to run the show. If memory serves me correctly, she had the helm for about a year, and then our Barbara J took over. The rest, as they say, is history; we are where we are, with one of the most entertaining and readable magazines on the Internet!
We've had a lot of people writing for the magazine in that time: Abby Lauren, Nan & Amy (also co- editors for a time, how could I forget to mention that!), Rachel herself, our Mexico-based fashionista Tasi, Gaby (another former editor!), Barbara Marie (our co-moderator), Barbara J (our co-moderator and editor), Judy Sometimes (shouldn't that be Judy Most-Of-The-time by now? :P ), and many others, all of whom I apologize for not naming.
I was also able to secure permission from a lady named Lucille Sorella. She runs a lucrative business providing information to ladies like us, and also publishes a monthly blog. I contacted her and gained permission to reprint her blog entries here in the magazine. She and I have conversed many times since then; she's a wonderful woman and has a great team of people working with and for her to bring us many quality products. I greatly appreciate her graciousness in allowing me to pass along her insights to the readers of our magazine.
For myself, I've written my tips and tricks column for the magazine for a non-stop six years now, every month that the magazine has been published since April of 2008. That's a lot of tips and tricks! At first, it was easy; I found a few magazine articles and online items, and slapped them together in a hodge- podge. I also only wrote a page and a half for my first column. By the third column, though, I was get- ting bored already with cut-and[pasting other people's ideas and started doing a lot deeper re- search. After awhile, I started getting e-mails from readers, who were asking me questions and sending me ideas. That livened things up! That's when I got really serious about this and started digging through older and newer makeup and hair books in the local library system, and actually started talking to cosme- tologists and estheticians, and began to get into the idea that I wanted to do this as my vocation. In many ways, my tips and tricks column is what set me on the path to becoming a licensed stylist!
It was interesting, recently, to go over my older columns and see how I've progressed as a writer and also from being a novice at-home makeup and hair enthusiast, to being a fledgling cosmetology student, to being the licensed professional I now am. There were some mistakes in my earlier columns that I'd dearly love to go back in time and fix, both in my writing skills and in my knowledge, but the past is the past...or is it?
I'm giving myself a chance to redress the mistakes I've found in those earlier columns I've been quietly plugging away at taking the best of my columns and adding some all-new material, to turn them into an e 34 -book. I started this project in January, but shelved it for awhile when I decided to go back to school and also got my chair in the salon I'm working in now. Now that both of those projects have settled into place and I have a schedule again, I'm dusting off the pages and getting back to this project. As always, I'm on the lookout for new tips and tricks and ideas to incorporate. Just like in my column, if you give me ideas to use, or have a question that I can answer, your name will appear with that tip or that ques- tion. One subject I'm particularly interested in getting some information about is dealing with, as it's termed in salon parlance, ethnic hair and nails and makeup. While I've done some work in school with ethnic hair, there is always more to learn, and to share. So feel free to write me! To get my address, all you need to do is get a copy, any copy, of the magazine dated April 2008 or later. My address hasn't changed in all that time! That sounds a little sad, actually...
In closing, I want to remind you all that the magazine doesn't just belong to a privileged few. We want every member of this group to see their name in print! Send in an article, or a joke, or something, any- thing, and enjoy the feeling of having contributed to the best free transgendered magazine in publication. It's always great to get fresh blood flowing! With the theme ideas Barbara's proposed, we should be able to get a lot of new faces. And don't worry, while Barbara J is a real slave driver to those of us who've been here for awhile (and I have the lash marks to prove it! :giggle:), she's very gentle with the new writ- ers. I hope to see some new names in the table of contents soon!
Hugz! Mellissalynn
Mellissalynn’s Tips & Tricks
Welcome to summer, girls! It’s officially time for sun fun, barbecues, and the beach! Spring has sprung, the trees and flowers are blooming, and it’s long since time to come out of our winter cocoons and spread the wings of our feminine beauty.
I hope May was good to you all. My month hasn’t been too bad. School is still incredible, and I’m hav- ing a lot of fun. I have an official graduation date now, of May 15, 2015. That means that, with luck, I’ll take my teacher’s exam sometime in June of next year, and be licensed no later than July.
My salon is set up! Here’s a picture of it so you all can see my situation. I’ve changed out the gray chair for my own black one, which matches the salon décor a bit more, and added a few more things to my hair station. The smaller wooden table is my manicure/pedicure station. The red item on my station is a paraffin wax pot, which I’m going to talk about a little bit in this article.
I want to thank you all again, dear readers, for voting for my column as highly as you all did in the recent poll. It makes me feel wonderful inside to know that you all appreciate my hard work in 35 scrounging up these tips and tricks every month. I promise to keep finding and sharing them until there just aren’t any more tips and tricks to share! That could take quite awhile…
So! If you want to give me decoration tips for my station, or you want to tell me about your summer exploits, or (as always) if you have any ideas, tips, or tricks to share, write me! You all know the ad- dress by now; I’ve been putting it in the magazine for over six years! But just in case you’ve missed it, here it is again: [email protected].
And away we go!
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As previously noted, we’re about to start summer. As much fun as everything else is about summer, it’s not the best of times for our hair. The humidity in many places causes frizz, those wonderfully warm summer rainstorms destroy our ‘dos, and the sun itself can cause damage via UV rays. So here are a few quick tips to help prevent destroying your mane.
Start by going light on the product if it even looks like it might rain. Rain and damp weather will cause gels, mousse, and hairspray to get wet and sticky again. This actually applies to any weather, but summer is especially bad. When the product dries again, it’s not where you originally intended for it to be, and can feel sticky or stiff. You’re better off staying with a lightweight dry shampoo. You can keep some in your purse for this purpose. I’ll be sharing a neat little DIY recipe for making your own dry shampoo later in the column.
Frizz happens when the cuticle in your hair shaft opens up and absorbs moisture. The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair shaft. The hair shaft soaks up moisture from hot, humid air and will get wild and poofy and uncontrollable. The first, best way to control this is to tend to your hair’s health. Give your hair a weekly protein mask. You can find decent ones at your local beauty store. When you apply the mask, start by coating every strand with it. Using your fingers, work the mask down the strands to the ends. The mask will basically fill and close the cuticles.
I’m betting you know that the sun can be bad for your skin. Well, you can damage your hair with too much exposure as well. There are several great leave-in conditioners out there that provide UV filtering aka sunscreen. Just like with skin, this will protect your hair from sun damage.
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What’s one of our greatest beauty aids, girls? That’s right, sleep! I’m not going to beat the get-8-hours- of-sleep-daily horse yet again, you all know that. You all also know that it’s not always possible. So let’s talk a bit about what we can do to rejuvenate ourselves instead.
This is a little esthetics trick I learned to get the blood flow going in your face and get rid of the puffy look. You can do this in your bathroom at home or even at your job in boring boy mode, if you like. I’ve tried this method and it feels really nice.
Start by applying a light touch of facial moisturizer. This lets your hands move across your skin more easily. Using the tips of your fingers, lightly stroke upwards on your neck toward your chin, alternating 36 hands to do so, for about 30 seconds. Place your fingertips right at the center of your chin, and glide your fingers upwards toward the ears along the jawline; repeat this motion ten times.
Next, position your fingers roughly a half-inch from your nose. Using a curving upward motion, stroke your cheekbones in an upward motion toward the hairline. Again, repeat this ten times.
Place your fingertips at the sides of your nose. Slowly, slide them upward until your fingers are just under your tear ducts, then move your fingers outward under the eye in a half-circle. Again, repeat this motion ten times.
Lastly, place the fingertips of one hand, whichever you’re more comfortable with, between your brows. Glide your hands upward to your hairline, then repeat with your other hands. Continue doing this motion for 30 seconds.
Remember, if you have oily skin, you may want to use less moisturizer. Conversely, if you have dry skin, you may need a small amount more.
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I want to share some information about teas. Three types, to be exact. I’ve shared before that green tea is loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and is wonderful in helping protect your skin from the effects of aging, and also skin cancer.
But did you know that black tea can help with stress, and help fight off diseases. Yep! Drinking black tea can lower the amount of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is stress hormone. By causing the cortisol level to drop, you can reduce the chances of heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, among other things. Additionally, add a touch of ginger to your black tea. Ginger has similar inflammation-suppressing properties to ibuprofen, and will help with joint pain.
Hawthorn tea is a diuretic, and will stimulate your kidneys. This will help flush your system, and provide some water-weight loss. Eating a good helping of dark leafy greens such as lettuce or spinach will also help reduce water weight.
Do you get in bed and toss and turn for some time before finally dropping off? Passionflower tea will help you to sleep more quickly and more soundly. Passionflower tea is a natural muscle relaxant. If you drink a twelve-ounce glass of it before you go to bed, you will double your chances of drifting off easily.
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One of the most important items in a girl’s beauty arsenal is her smile. I’ve said this a thousand times, both on here and on other sites. But did you know that smiling can help reduce your stress? We all know that being out and about en femme can be stressing. So smile! As women, most people expect to see us smiling more than men. Smiling also reduces stress to your central nervous system, which again reduces your cortisol (there’s that word again from the last tip!) levels. Cortisol can also cause clots in the bloodstream, so anything we can do to reduce the levels in the body is helpful. And lastly, it feels good to smile!
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Here’s a quick tip for the lady on the go! Make an eyeliner pencil do triple duty in your makeup arsenal. Start by using it as an eyeshadow as well as a liner. Color in from the lash line to just above the crease of the eyelid. After you’ve done this, use it again to contour your cheeks. Draw a light line just blow the cheekbones and blend it back toward your hairline.
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Do you do your own pedicures? Generally, I enjoy having my feel being pampered by someone else way too much to do it myself. In all fairness, I also have a school full of people who are willing and able to do this without charge to me, so I’m spoiled! But on those rare occasions when I need to do this for myself, I found a neat little DIY trick for making toe separators using common sponges. Cut a sponge in half longwise, then cut the four slits for your toes along the long side of each. Don’t cut too deeply or it will fall apart. Use these to separate your toes, then throw them away. I don’t advise reusing them; wet sponges can fill up with nasty bacteria very quickly. If you do decide to reuse the sponges, wash them thoroughly with hot soapy water, rinse completely to get everything out, then put the sponge on a microwave-safe plate and nuke it for at least two minutes.
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Let’s discuss the adam’s apple for a moment. It’s one of the glaring signs, according to many, of masculinity, and all too often in film and literature is the ‘sure sign’ that a man is impersonating a woman. In truth, everyone has an adam’s apple. Men tend to have larger ones, due to having longer vocal cords.
I’m one of the more fortunate ones. I have a naturally higher-pitched voice, and my adam’s apple is pretty much consistent with a woman’s. I know that many girls out there aren’t this lucky, and I’ve been looking for a good way to camouflage the adam’s apple with makeup tricks.
What we need to remember here is that this is all about highlighting and contouring. Highlighting is, as the name suggests, making an area more prominent. Contouring, on the other hand, is about shading, and creating visual effects that hide features. In this case, we’re looking to do some contour work. Take a powder bronzer, roughly one to two shades darker than your adam’s apple, on the protruding portion.
Another trick I picked up off the Internet is a little more interesting to read about and harder to perform. This trick will, supposedly, not only hide the feature, but will also improve your feminine voice.
When you swallow, your adam’s apple will move upward. Several people are suggesting that you stand in front of a mirror and swallow. You’ll see your adam’s apple move upward and then down again. After you observe this, try swallowing halfway, then hold your throat there and speak When you do this, you remove the male resonance in your voice, moving the vibrations from your chest to your head. You can play around by gently pushing on your adam’s apple in the same way and practicing speaking. Add 38 some more refined diction with a little breathiness at a higher pitch (not a falsetto!), and you're on your way.
I tried this on myself and I did detect a slight change in my voice. More practice might do more. Any readers who try this, I’d love to hear about, and hear, if you want to send audio, the results!
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I don’t talk about accessories much, girls. We each have our own style and our own look, and accessorizing is, to me, a matter of one’s own taste. But I have a few thoughts on the matter that I’d like to put out there for you all to ponder.
What do you think of when you think of accessories? Jewelry, obviously. I try to hit what I consider the four major areas when I go out: earrings, necklace, bracelet(s), and ring(s). If I’m wearing something with a short skirt, I’ll occasionally go with an anklet as well.
Hair accessories are important. The positioning of a barrette, the way a ponytail is worn, the strategic placement of a hair decoration…all of these can contribute, or detract, from a look. For example, when I was preparing my model for my senior presentation at school last year, one of the key components in the hairstyle was a flower in her hair, with a jewel in the flower. The style itself was extremely simple and basic, which was my intent; the accessory was there to set it off and make it elegant. You can judge for yourself from the picture. For the record, my instructors were very impressed; I received a grade of 100 for my presentation.
Your purse can also be considered an accessory. I tend to match mine to what I’m wearing. When I select a purse, I consider a few things. What will I be carrying? What will I be doing? What image am I trying to project? Obviously, if you’re going out for a day shopping, you don’t want a little clutch, or at least I don’t. I want something large enough to hold my pocketbook, my car keys, my phone, some makeup (for touching up), perhaps my tablet, my checkbook, a pen, and perhaps a small notebook in case I need to jot something down. I also always make it a point to carry a tampon and a napkin with me. Not for my own use, but as I explained a long time ago about using the ladies’ room, you never know when another woman may stop you and beg for assistance because Aunt Flo came to visit unannounced.
Here is another thing to consider as part of your accessories: your keys. Women’s key rings are very personalized to them; to some it’s almost a fashion statement in itself. This was pointed out to me by one of my nieces several years ago in a conversation we were having. She told me that my keys were a dead giveaway of my gender, because they were bor- ing. Girls like a touch of color and fun, she said. I started to pay attention, and lo and behold, she was spot on! So I added a couple of cute keychains to the mix, and when I had to get a new remote key lock for my car, I found one in a Barbie pink.
39 Another thing she pointed out. Girls will have multiple key rings. Guys tend to stack them all on one ring. This was another little observation that panned out. I have one big ring for my boring boy self, and transfer my car keys to a smaller, separate set when Mellissa is out to visit.
These are just little things that women notice, that you should all keep in mind. Ultimately, there is nothing that you can’t ‘girl up’ a little bit in your presentation. I’m not saying be girly-girls about everything; that’s as good a way to be read as any. I’m saying remember that the devil is always in the details, and that goes more so for your feminine presentation. Anything that you can do to increase your believability is something worth pursuing.
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Well! This was an interesting column to me. There wasn’t a lot in the way of actual makeup tips; in fact, I think this column has less true makeup tips than any I’ve written before. I think it may be the longest one I’ve written also. I hope what I’ve written will be interesting and useful to you all!
As I think I may have overstayed my welcome this month, I’m going to make my wrap-up short and sweet this time, ladies. Once again, I want to hear from you all. What would you like to see more or less of in my column? Would you like me to go longer? Am I going too long? Are there specific topics you would like to know more about? Please, tell me! I said this at the beginning of the column, and here it is again: my address is [email protected]. Feel free to write me at any time, I’ll always answer.
Before I go, a quick plug. I’m writing a column over at Sister House, Tasi’s website, called Mellissa’s Beauty Corner. So far, I have one column published, but I’m polishing up a second one that will be up soon, with luck. These columns are focusing on a single subject, and are much more in-depth than I go here (usually!).
If you haven’t checked Tasi’s site out, you really should; she’s busted her cute little tush to make it something special. Joining the site is free and there’s a lot of good stuff there. I believe there’s a link to Sister House in the back of this magazine.
Have a great June, dear readers! I’ll talk to you next month!
40 Style Lessons from the “Mean Girls”
Tasi Zuriack |
Style lessons from the Mean Girls or how to dress like a teenager, not that some of you need this advice. Still there are some fascinating takeaways from this smart, sassy and snarky comedy that describes how female high school social cliques operate and the effect they can have on girls. Of course what drives my interest is that early-2000s wardrobe of flippy mini- skirts, couture tracksuits and pointy-toed pumps.
Now Lindsey Lohan (this was probably her best starring role) is not exactly my favorite actress, but any film produced by Saturday Night Live (SNL) with a screenplay by Tina Fey will keep you laughing … see this preview of the film. In an interview about the film, Tina Fey noted, “Adults find it funny. They are the ones who are laughing. Young people watch it like a reality show. It’s much too close to their real experiences so they are not exactly guffawing.”
Now you may find the ridiculous fashion rules — pink on Wednesdays, ponytails once a week, jeans restricted to Fridays just a bit silly but there are a handful of notable fashion lessons we’ve taken away from the movie.
When in doubt, go monochromatic. Fact: Styled right, a bold color worn from head to toe almost always looks good, whether it’s basic black, winter white — or pink on Wednesday. 41 Use makeup to bring out your best features — just not all at once.
The conventional wisdom is that if you’re highlighting your eyes, you should leave your lips relatively bare — and vice versa. We think that accenting both can work if done correctly — say, a smoky eye and classic red lip — but don’t then pile on the shimmer powder, brush on the bronzer and add a ton of lip gloss.
Dress your attitude, not your age.
Think you can’t get away with short skirts, long hair, bright colors or skinny denim past the age of 40? Guess again. When it comes to the rules of “age appropriate” dressing, there are few hard-and-fast laws — if you feel confident wearing a certain trend, you should go for it. In fact, the older you get, the more you learn what works for you and develop your own sense of personal style. And if you don’t believe that, then check out the Advanced Style blog. However: do not blindly copy those styles in the teenager magazines, instead go here.
Pick personalized jewelry.
Initial pendants and nameplate necklaces (hello, Sex and the City!) may have enjoyed a major moment back in the early aughts, but they’re now back and better than ever. For a 2014- appropriate update, try a bold pair of dangling earrings, a stacking ring or a statement necklace.
Unsure about a potential wardrobe purchase? Ask a friend!
In the immortal words of Gretchen Weiners: “I mean, you wouldn’t buy a skirt without asking your friends first if it looks good on you!” Not always possible for many of us, but seek the advice of a knowledgeable saleslady. They are there to help. And you’d be surprised how often other customers will 42 venture an opinion when asked. Think about it … women love to give advice. Of course if you have a well dressed girlfriend with you, then there’s your help. And it’s not that I’m stuck back into the ’50s, but a full circle skirt looks good on EVERYONE. Trust me on this.
Shop according to what fits, not what the size label says.
Every brand and designer sizes its merchandise differently. While you may find yourself fitting into 8s at J.Crew, don’t panic if you’ve got to size up to a 10 or 12 in Alexander Wang! And don’t get me started on denim — most women I know own jeans in at least four different sizes. Remember, once the garment’s on, nobody will be able to see the label — but if you try to squeeze yourself into something that’s obviously too small, you’ll be fidgeting and generally feeling uncomfortable all day long.
Don’t buy (or wear!) shoes if you can’t walk in them.
Sure, those five-inch python pumps look stunning when you’re sitting — but if you can’t actually walk in them, you’ll feel ouchy and look like a to- tal fool. And probably wind up upside-down in a trash can, too. Even real girls need to learn to walk in their stilettos
Make sure your wardrobe’s weather- appropriate.
If there’s one thing we (love to) hate, it’s seeing fashion people looking dangerously underdressed during NYFW in February, stepping out mid- blizzard in open-toed heels and sheer lace dresses. Don’t be a ridiculous dresser — if temperatures are in the teens, layer up and wear a coat, or else enjoy that frost- bite. If there’s a 30 percent chance that it’s already raining, for goodness sakes, put on some wellies or at least a pair of sturdy moto boots. 43 Don’t blindly follow a trend if you think it’s ridiculous.
Chances are, just like Regina George’s “peekaboobs,” it probably is. Just as I love to watch the runway models from Fashion Weeks in New York, London, Paris, and Milan, it takes some major redoing to make them street-wearable. There are probably 20-25 new (not really) trends every season. Only a few may be you.
Above all, own your style.
With the right amount of confidence, you can make even the most out- landish or unconventional outfit look amazing. Just look at Susie Bubble, who routinely piles on clashing colors with abandon, or Anna Dello Russo, who regularly steps out dressed like a disco ball. Or the Plastics, whose mega-miniskirts, slogan tees and pointy pumps aren’t exactly regulation North Shore High attire.
The original article from Lucky Magazine has been adapted for the transgender girl. For more ideas on how to dress stylishly, check our Pinterest page.
Dress Better Over 40 You Can Still Get Your Fantasy Wardrobe! By Cynthia Nellis
Too young. Too trendy. Too sexy. Too expensive.
Tell me your reason for having so much trouble getting dressed in middle age and I’ll bet there are a million other women over 40 out there with the same trouble. So why is it so hard for us to find clothes we like? For starters, many of us have 44 very different bodies than we did 30 years ago. And it’s no longer enough to just snatch up trendy pieces to wear out partying on the weekend like we did as youngsters. Many stores aren’t much help either, because they push the hottest, trendiest pieces and stack classics in the back of the store.
Some middle-age women combat the nothing-to-wear problem by sticking to the same styles they’ve worn for years. Others buy loads of new clothes, only to find they still have nothing to wear in their closets because they hate everything they own.
Me? I have to confess that I usually have something to wear, only because I have put some thought into every purchase. I’ve found that by building a dream wardrobe -- then finding a balance in reality -- I end up with clothes I like.
Here are some of the questions I've worked through myself:
1. Fantasy: How would you dress if you had a limitless budget? Answer this question and it will help clarify your true style. My dream wardrobe would consist of amazing menswear-type pantsuits (of the $2000+ Ralph Lauren Black Label variety) mixed in with some body-conscious Donna Karan ($1000+) and something edgy or artsy (like Thakoon.) If I could spend anything on clothing, I’d have plenty of ultra luxe cashmere, leather and suedes and the most fabulous shoe collection (heavy on boots, which I love.) I frequently window shop in stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus to see what these high-end designers are making that I love.
Reality: Incorporate your fantasy wardrobe into a budget. Instead of being discouraged by stuff I can’t afford, I get inspired and challenged to find similar looks on a budget. Fortunately, some of the designers I like also make lower- priced lines, like Lauren by Ralph Lauren. Once I realized that I like the textures, cuts and colors of high-end designers, I was able to find cheaper pieces of luxe. Affordable cashmere can be found at stores like Land’s End and every department store has its own budget version of leather and suede.
2. Fantasy: How would you dress if you had the body to carry off anything? In my imaginary fashion closet, I’m 6 feet tall and a size 4. I wear skinny jeans and look great in them. Clingy knits look amazing and I’m able to walk in 5 inch heels. And most of all, my arms are perfect to show off in sleeveless styles and my belly is flat so I can wear anything I want.
Reality: Dress for the body you have now. Playing with that pretend “perfect” body image helps me realize that what I really want is to look tall and lean. That may not be your projected ideal, but it’s mine. So I like sleek, long looks either in monochromatic shades or body-skimming cuts. Heels – as high as I can stand them – are a must for dressing up because nothing makes you look taller and 45 thinner faster than heels. I still wear bare arms a lot – even though my arms are much less than perfect – mostly because it’s hot where I live and I think showing a little skin makes you look younger.
3. Fantasy: How would you dress if age weren’t an issue? If the word “age- appropriate” didn’t exist, would you wear microminis and zebra-print leggings? I usually wear whatever I want as long as it flatters my figure, so this isn’t my biggest hang up. But I do find myself questioning things like blue nail polish, tattoos and bikinis. If age weren’t an issue I’d probably wear slogan T-shirts, rolled -up jeans and flip flops most days.
Reality: Find the balance between ageless and age-appropriate. My fantasy ageless look is less about sexy and more about comfort. So I definitely turn to jeans and tees (no slogans, though) for every day. If you would wear miniskirts in your pretend perfect world, try them now (maybe layered with tights or leggings for more coverage.) Nine Expert Tips for Walking in Crazy Heels, Straight from Fashion Industry Pros by Lucky Staffers
While New York Fashion Week's Fall 2014 shows as a whole had a serious shortage of high heels, a number of major designers included impressively towering shoes amidst the abundance of flats. On the catwalk, Erin Fetherston's dainty designs paired nicely with clear-sided pumps, while Marchesa featured intricate, strappy sandals. The season's street style stars and front row celebrities proved that the craziest-and at times, most uncomfortable-high heels are far from dead. While we'll happily slip into a beautiful pair of towering heels any day, we figured we could use a few tips from those in the fashion business who know the shoes best.
To that end, we asked around throughout NYFW for models' and celebrities' tried-and-true tips for how to walk in sky-high heels. Click through the slideshow above for your go-to guide for getting around in stilettos, and you'll be strutting it like a pro in no time.
Hanne Gaby Odiele "You need to have confidence and keep your head straight." 46
Bella Thorne "Walking up the stairs can be really hard, so what helps is kicking up your dress with your feet. My heel always gets stuck on the bottom of the staircase, so I always have to kick up every time. Kick them up, so they don't get stuck!"
Charlie Paille "Don't think about anything! Be confident and just go for it. Standing up straight is everything. No slouching."
AnnaSophia Robb "Practice makes perfect, and focus on your core. Try not to think about it. And wear shoes that fit-that's the absolute most important thing you can do."
Malaika Firth "I try to fly! Stand up straight and walk softly."
Anmari Botha "Find a shoe that fits and then practice a lot!" 47
Gina Torres "I would say keep your weight up. Think up, rise up, keep your posture going-it's very important. You don't want to sink into your knees, you don't want to sink into your feet. And keep moving-don't think about it!"
Kristine Zandmane "Make sure you start off with a straight back. When you take the first step make sure the other leg behind you is very straight so your legs make a 'V' shape. Then, swing your hips!"
Marique Schimmel "As long as you're confident, you can walk in high heels!" 48 Belly Flattening Fashion Tricks for Crossdressers and MTF Transgender Women By Lucille Sorella
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Lucille Sorella is a GG (genetic girl) who teaches crossdressers, transsexuals, and transgender females how to look, act, and feel like real women. Her goal is to help T-women express their inner and outer femininity and increase their confidence as women. She has a professional background in fashion, beauty, dance, and natural healing and has been working with the trans- gender community for the past 12 years. Her website is loaded with useful information and is located at http://www.flat2fem.com/index1.html .
A slim waist is an important symbol of feminine beauty. So does that mean all hope is lost if your tummy is your trouble spot? Absolutely not, girlfriend! Keep reading to discover 7 belly-flattening fashion tricks for crossdressers and MTF transgender women:
Trick #1: Wear a shaping camisole
Corsets and girdles will certainly pull you in, but they’re not very comfortable for daily wear. Instead, wear a shaping camisole under your clothes. It’s a wonderful alternative for trimming inches from your waist and belly – while still allowing you to breath.
49 Trick #2: Try a tummy-minimizing peplum
Peplums are very “in” right now and they’re a fabulous style for crossdressers and MTF transgender women.
A peplum is a short overskirt attached at the waistline of a top, dress, or jacket that’s perfect for covering a full belly. And thanks to the fit-and-flare styling, a peplum will also give you a sexy hourglass shape.
Trick #3: Avoid bottoms that sit too far above or below your waistline
If you have a big belly, the waistband of your skirt or pants should sit just below your belly button.
If the waistband is too high, it’ll look like your stomach is popping out below. If the waistband is too low, you’ll get the “muffin top” look.
50 Trick #4: Wear a light colored jacket over a dark top
Wearing a light colored jacket over a dark top is a great way to downplay an ample tummy. The jacket conceals excess poundage while the dark color underneath makes your belly recede into the background. For the best results, look for a jacket with some shape. Princess seams are especially feminine and flattering.
Trick #5: Just say “no” to tight clothes
If your belly is your trouble spot, you should obviously avoid wearing tight clothes. Clothes that are too tight (including bras and panties) will dig in and create unsightly bulges – calling even more attention to the area. 51 Trick #6: Downplay belly rolls with a ruched top
Ruching (i.e. fabric that’s gathered along the seam line) is perfect for concealing an ample belly.
Unlike “flat” fabrics that reveal every bulge, ruching hides what’s underneath – including those dreaded belly rolls.
Trick #7: Avoid oversized clothes
A lot of people make the mistake of trying to hide a big belly under oversized tops. But all this does is make you look even bigger.
Instead, look for clothes that skim – rather than drown – your midsection.
Now that you know how to deal with the most common problem area for crossdressers and MTF transgender women, let’s focus on the positive … Namely, your assets! 52 Easy figure fixes Fashion solutions for your body type By Cynthia Nellis
An empire waist dress draw attention away from hips, from Donald Deal. Cynthia Nellis
Every woman has something about her body she'd like to hide, whether it's heavy thighs, a pudgy tummy or a too-round bottom. With just a few visual tricks, your problem areas will disappear and let your true beauty shine through!
Bottom-heavy
If your hips are wider than your shoulders and your thighs are round, you have a classic pear-shaped body. Dressing is a snap if you remember to accentuate the positives: a shapely waist, delicate upper body and attractive shoulders and arms.
Bottoms
Avoid anything too tight. A-line skirts that hit around the knee area are ideal because they draw attention away from problem areas. Miniskirts are generally a bad idea because they accentuate heavy thighs. Pant waists should fall somewhere below the natural waistline for a better fit. A straight or slightly bootcut leg is the most flattering. Avoid patterned or light- colored pants. Skip fussy details like big cargo pockets, rouching or excessive zippers around the hip area.
Shorts can be tricky, but for workouts and casual wear choose lightweight, loose- fitting shorts (no bike shorts). Slimming side stripes on shorts can give the illusion of sleekness.
Tops
Avoid too-baggy tops or too-tight tops: the looser tops will make you look large all over, the tight tops will make you look out of proportion to your hips. Look for fitted -- not skintight -- T-shirts (something with some stretch) and button-front tops. V-necks, turtlenecks and open collars all call attention to the face, which is always a good thing.
53 Jackets and blazers should hit anywhere but the widest point of your hips. That could mean right below the waist to mid-thigh, depending on your height. Wear jackets and blazers open for the best vertical lines.
Dresses
Look for dresses that nip in at the waist and slightly flare out over hips and thighs. You can pull off a full-skirted ballgown because it will hide heavy hips and thighs. Try sleeveless and strapless dresses to play up pretty shoulders and arms. An empire, or raised waist dress brings the eye up away from problem areas. Careful, though. Sometimes this gets mistaken for a maternity look with fuller figures.
Top-heavy
The apple-shaped body is usually softer around the middle and has heavier breasts, with narrower hips and slimmer legs. Make the most of your womanly figure by showing off your legs and great cleavage.
Tops
Avoid too tight (plays up large breasts too much) and too baggy (just makes you look heavier). Opt for fabrics that skim the body, preferably knits and wovens with stretch for a better fit. V-neck, boatneck, turtle and mock necks and shirt collars are your most flattering necklines. Play up nice cleavage with a peek, not a Dolly Parton-sized slice. Especially appealing: a pretty lace-trimmed cami showing under a jacket or top. Avoid full sleeves or puffy sleeves.
Bottoms
Balance out a top-heavy figure with an A-line skirt that will give you the look of a waist and more of an hourglass look. Choose flat-front, never pleated, pants that have a lower rise than the natural waist. Five-pocket jeans are your friend! Front pockets on jeans help disguise a tummy problem, while back pockets can help define a flatter rear common to top- heavy women. Avoid anything too tight -- from pencil skirts to skintight jeans -- because it will only accentuate top heaviness. Play up nice legs with shorter (an inch above the knee) skirts.
54 Dresses
One-piece dressing is tricky for you. Best bets: A sleeveless black sheath, a soft princess seamed dress, a strapless dress with corseted top.
Resist the urge to cover up head-to-toe: showing a little skin, whether it's bare arms or shoulders, is much more flattering.
Body basics for every figure
Wear colors that look great on you. Not sure what those are? Grab a trusted friend and head to the mall. Hold up tons of colors next to your face and get feedback from your friend. Hues that compliment most complexions: pink, blue, white (you'll just need to change the intensity of these colors to suit your coloring, i.e. hot pink for darker skins, carnation for fairer, ivory for olive tones, etc.) Nobody looks good in high-waisted, pleated pants with narrow ankle openings, but manufacturers still turn these out in droves. Avoid!
Don't worry about being trendy when you look at what suits your figure: concentrate on what flatters, and add up-to-date shoes, handbags and accessories later.
Bald is Beautiful! by Annette Brunette
Recently at the annual First Event transgender convention held in Peabody, Massachusetts last January I saw a very nicely dressed lady...but that well groomed beard that she was sporting just didn’t fit in! Having been out and about since the mid 90’s I’d seen a lot of strange sights but most “gender benders” were trying to draw attention to themselves. Super high stiletto heels, big big hair, ultra short mini-skirts etc... Without the beard I am sure this lady would have disappeared under the radar. I later heard she was criticized by the gender junta for her “incorrect” presentation. It seems the fashion police and their socially “correct” minions aren’t just limited to the outside world. Much of it comes from within the community. Anyway I was curious to hear the story behind this person and I wasn’t disappointed. It seems she was married to a non supportive spouse who would let her attend First Event only under the condition that she not shave her beard! Hey, it may not be a perfect situation but it’s a start, right?
I thought about this gender bending theme years ago when I was touching up my own pictures with photoshop. (PS) I’d been fiddling and diddling with PS for the last 12 years or so having 55 become reasonably proficient at fixing things. It seems the majority of us want to become more beautiful, more feminine. (i.e. more hair) What would things look like at the other end? True gender bending, in other words, not just dressing to fit in. (gender blending) I began to experiment with myself and my friends. Now as the hair that you see in these pictures (the mop) is my own natural hair going bald was a bit problematical.
My friend and fellow victim Karen Reeves is abducted, I mean, INducted into the bald women hall of fame gallery. The massive amount of hair removal in this picture was quite tricky.
It should not be assumed that going bald is the only new fashion statement. Women can have beards, too! See for yourself.
56 Former First Lady and Secre- tary of State Hillary Clinton also knows a thing or two about gender bending. Brings female pattern baldness to a whole new level. Yes I know, the dimensions and ears probably don’t match
And who can forget Sarah Palin? Going Rogue? How about Going Bald! Forget about the Mama Grizzlies. The Mama Cueballs are doing just fine!
Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer shows off her shiny new dome in between photo shoots for Vogue. Marissa has been on a torrid pace redesigning everything Yahoo related. From a new look logo to brand new sports, business and weather pages. Along with a completely new email system, the Yahoo groups Neo experience was warmly welcomed by the user community much like ants in a picnic basket. The nice thing is that these changes were implemented literally overnight with no warning and no beta testing. We wish Marissa the best of success in her new “follicularly challenged” look and feel she will be a shining beacon for bald beauty queen aspirants everywhere.
As the old saying goes, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...but baldness goes straight to the dome.” 57 The Gossip Fence Transgender In The News
New Study Finds Increase in Number of Top Companies and Federal Contractors with Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Policies since 2010
LOS ANGELES – Ninety-eight percent of the country’s largest companies now prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and nearly 85 percent prohibit discrimination based on gender identity, according to a new study from UCLA’s Williams Institute. The study also finds that 86 percent of the top 50 federal contractors prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and over 60 percent prohibit discrimination based on gender identity. Combined, these contractors represent 48 percent of all contracting dollars awarded by the federal government—over $218 billion in spending.
The top ten Fortune 500 companies with gender identify and sexual orientation non-discrimination polices include: Wal-Mart, Chevron, Apple, General Motors, General Electric, Ford Motor, AT&T, Fannie Mae, CVS Caremark, and McKesson. The top ten federal contractors include: Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, L-3 Communications Holdings, United Technologies, BAE Systems, McKesson, Humana, and Computer Sciences Corporation.
HHS Expected To Lift Blanket Medicare Ban On Sex-Reassignment Surgery Soon
WASHINGTON — The Department of Health and Human Services is expected to end Medicare’s blanket ban on sex-reassignment surgery at the end of a panel review, according to sources familiar with the process.
Medicare has for decades considered sex-reassignment surgery “experimental,” despite opposition from many major medical professional associations and LGBT advocates, who say the ban denies necessary care to transgender people. The private insurance industry has also been slow to adopt coverage options for sex-reassignment surgery and related care, something advocates say stems from the Medicare ban.
That could begin changing in the next couple weeks, as an independent HHS review panel hands down its ruling on a challenge to the Medicare ban filed last year by the ACLU, GLAAD, and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Lifting the blanket ban would not necessarily mean Medicare would then cover sex-reassignment surgery, but would make it possible for Medicare officials to consider covering the procedure. The change would allow the government study coverage options just as it does for other medical procedures.
“AMA supports public and private health insurance coverage for treatment of gender identity disorder as recommended by the patient’s physician,” reads a section from the group’s bylaws. According to a May 2012 statement, the American Psychiatric Association “advocates for removal of barriers to care and supports both public and private health insurance coverage for gender transition treatment.” 58 Advocates closely watching the HHS appeal timeline believe a win is coming, but have been reluctant to say so publicly. The advocacy groups directly behind the Medicare challenge declined to speak on the record about it.
Some private insurance has begun covering sex-reassignment surgeries as well as associated care that comes with it. But many companies are still staying away from the new coverage options, citing cost and other concerns. Though cases are still working their way through the courts, current understanding of the Affordable Care Act is that the insurance reforms in the bill do not force companies to cover gender reassignment.
That’s partly why ending the Medicare ban is seen as so important among advocates, as well as increased awareness around other health-related issues the transgender community faces. Companies and insurers often take their coverage cues from what the government pays for with Medicare.
Transgender Lobby Days
Sunday, July 13, 2014 - Tuesday, July 15, 2014. Washington, DC, 20005
The National Center for Transgender Equality is proud to announce the 2014 Transgender Lobby Day. Building on the historic Senate passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) in fall 2013, over 200 transgender and ally advocates from across the country will convene in Washington, DC to educate their members of Congress and lobby for ENDA's passage in the U.S. House of Representatives. Every participant will receive training to ensure our members of Congress listen to our stories of workplace harassment and violence.
With our voices in the fight, we can move ENDA forward and ensure all Americans can seek and keep jobs without hiding who they are.
Click here to learn more or to register and attend the 2014 Transgender Lobby Day.
Battery Charges Dropped Against Calif. Trans Student
After completing a restorative justice program, battery charges were dropped against 16-year-old Jewlyes Gutierrez, reports the Transgender Law Center.
Gutierrez, a transgender student from Hercules, Calif., made national news after video surfaced of her and three female classmates involved a physical altercation last November. Although all four students participated in the fight, Gutierrez was the only one charged with a crime, finding her- self facing misdemeanor battery charges. All of the students were briefly suspended from school, but none of the three other girls involved — all cisgender (nontrans) — were charged in connection to the altercation.
Trans teacher still banned from classroom, after being fired and reinstated
A transgender teacher who was fired by a Texas school says she is being kept away from the class- room, despite officially being reinstated. Laura Jane Klug had been teaching as a substitute at Lum- 59 berton Intermediate School, but has said she was told not to return to her classes after parents said they were concerned that their children might be “distracted” because she is transgender. She was officially reinstated after a school board meeting on April 10, and at the time said she was “relieved” to have her job back.
However, Klug said this week that despite publicly being reinstated, she has not received any teaching assignments, and has now been asked to relocate to a position outside of the classroom. She told LoneStarQ that she accepted the position that keeps her away from children, because she needs the money and can’t afford to turn work down. She said: “I said I’m willing to do whatever because I really need a paycheck. It doesn’t make me very happy, but I think it should placate them [the parents] somewhat.
Klug, a pilot by trade, added: “I’m afraid that all this attention that I’ve gotten throughout the entire situation might have ruined my chances of every finding pilot employment.”
Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel: Military’s Transgender Policy ‘Continually Should Be Reviewed’
After the 2010 repeal of the policy barring gay and lesbian service members from being open about their sexuality, known as “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” activists turned their attention to the transgender policy, calling on the military to allow transgender individuals to serve openly. But to this point, there has been no review of the ban. Earlier this month, a Pentagon spokesperson told Slate, “At this time there are no plans to change the department’s policy.”
In an exclusive interview that aired on “This Week with George Stephanopoulos,” Hagel said he’s now ready to reconsider the ban. “I’m open to those assessments, because, again, I go back to the bottom line, every qualified American who wants to serve our country should have an opportunity if they fit the qualifications and can do it,” he said. Transgender issues are “an area that we’ve not defined enough.”
Hagel said his biggest concern is providing the medical support necessary to support transgender individuals, especially if they are stationed in what he called “austere locations.” A recent commission, co-chaired by a former U.S. surgeon general, found that there was no “compelling medical rationale” for not allowing transgender military service.
Criminal Justice System Discriminates Against LGBT People
An exhaustive new report from the Center for American Progress and Columbia University makes wide-ranging recommendations on federal policy changes that should be adopted to combat the disproportionate incarceration of LGBT people and those living with HIV.
The guidelines include detailed outlines of "policy measures that federal agencies can adopt to address discriminatory and abusive policing practices, improve conditions for LGBT prisoners and immigrants in detention, decriminalize HIV, and prevent LGBT youth and adults from coming in contact with the system in the first place".
The 84-page report includes numerous recommendations on how state and local law enforcement can improve its treatment of LGBT people, including veterans, homeless people, and transgender individuals, as well as steps to take to combat the criminalization of HIV. 60 The brief makes a powerful effort to share the stories of McDonald and many others who have become victims of failed justice policies that end up targeting those they claim to protect.
Laverne Cox Is The Leader Our Community Needs: “Your Lives Matter, Your Stories Are Valuable”
Consider Laverne Cox one of the most visible and impactful trans role models of our time. Her work in LGBT activism, her tireless effort in starting a productive conversation about issues facing the transgender community and her role as Sophia in Netflix’s breakout hit Orange Is the New Black have thrust her to the forefront of a new movement aiming to switch up the way we’ve historically seen gender and sexuality. She’s inspiring change in the most unlikely places, and she doesn’t plan on quitting anytime soon.
Fresh out of the GLAAD event that awarded her with the Stephen F. Kolzak award for her efforts in eliminating homophobia, and ahead of the undoubtedly busy summer before her, we sat down with Cox to talk about her continued activism, her take on trans progression in America, and what it means to be a true LGBT leader.
Her appearance with Carmen Carrera on Katie in January became controversial after you were both asked some pretty inappropriate questions. Couric later called the discussion it spawned a “teachable moment.” The discussion continued to gain national attention with Janet Mock’s appearances on Piers Morgan Live the following month.
Her character on Orange Is the New Black is also a trans woman. Does she think there’s a certain benefit to casting trans women in trans roles, as opposed to cisgender men or women, as was the case in Dallas Buyers Club?
Ms. Cox said “I have heard from so many trans folks saying that my character in Orange has given them a way to talk about themselves with their friends and family. Folks have transitioned because of this character that they find themselves do relating to. Folks who aren’t trans find themselves relating to this character and the trans woman playing her. I believe that when we connect with people as people all of our misconceptions about people who are different from us can melt away. Those are the benefits for the audience. As an actor I want to be able to play a variety of characters as i think most actors want to and I would never suggest an actor shouldn’t have that opportunity because I want it.”
Ms. Cox will also be serving as the keynote speaker for San Diego Pride’s Spirit of Stonewall rally. When asked “What do you hope to inspire in young trans people through your career and advocacy work?” Ms. Cox replied “I want everyone to be inspired to be more of themselves and to ask themselves what they can do to make the world safer for themselves and others to live authentically. I want everyone to also think about how race, class, gender, sexuality and ability intersect to make the world less safe for far too many and to begin to imagine how we as individuals can undo those unsafe systems.”
61 Governor presses for transgender teen's release
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Connecticut's governor is pressing for a transgender teen to be moved from a Connecticut women's prison where she has been held without charges for a month. The 16-year-old girl, identified as Jane Doe in court papers, has been held at York Correctional Institution at the request of Department of Children and Families officials who said she was too violent and dangerous to keep elsewhere.
A spokesman for Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says the governor and the DCF commissioner agree the girl should be moved to another setting as quickly as possible. Spokesman Andrew Doba said Friday the governor hopes the transition can take place in a matter of days or weeks.
An attorney for the girl has said putting her in an adult prison violated her rights and he wants her placed with a foster family.
Kansas: Local organizations promote understanding of transgender residents with billboard
In an effort to help raise awareness and visibility of the transgender community, a billboarding featuring Adam O’Brien, senior in fine arts, was constructed alongside K-177 by Sunflower Pets.
The Flint Hills Human Rights Project funded the sign, which launched on March 31, International Day of Transgender Visibility, which reads, “I am an art student at Kansas State University and an avid tattoo designer. I am an older brother, a best friend, and a full-on nerd. I am a transgender man. I am Manhattan.” The billboard, displayed through the month of April, was part of a series called the “i am project,” with other billboards displayed in Wichita, Kansas City, Lawrence, Overland Park and other major Kansas cities.
The idea behind the billboard and event was to spark conversations and promote open communication between members of the Manhattan community. “It’s easy to dismiss transgender people when we feel we cannot or do not relate to them,” Elle Boatman, founder of The Face of Trans, said.
Sore Winners: Christian Group Offended by Mississippi Businesses That Won't Discriminate Against Gays
Not all Mississippi businesses plan to take advantage of a new law making it easier to discriminate against LGBT people in the name of religion. The American Family Association, apparently, would like to change that. In a blog post published this week, the fundamentalist Christian activist group printed a list of what they called "Mississippi businesses that discriminate against religious freedom." That list, which the anti-LGBT group says is "taken directly from a pro-homosexual website," includes a number of businesses in the state who have agreed to display the sticker “We Don’t Discriminate. If Your Buy- ing We’re Selling”. That sticker clarifies that the business in question will not refuse to serve a cus- tomer because of his or her sexual orientation.
The AFA believes this amounts to discrimination against Christians who might want to refuse to serve LGBT people in the state: Ironically, this sticker represents the very promotion of discrimination...against the freedom of religious convictions. Businesses that display this sticker believe Christians should be forced, by law, to embrace homosexuality and deny their faith in personal business 62 practices. Get that? If you advertise that you don't discriminate, you're persecuting people who want to discriminate.
Michigan Business Coalition Forms To Push For Update of Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
LANSING - Job providers from across Michigan's economic landscape announced May 1 the Michigan Competitive Workforce Coalition, a partnership of business leaders and their companies who have come together with the goal of working with public policy makers in Lansing to update Michigan's Elliott- Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) to include sexual orientation and gender identity. The coalition also includes chambers of commerce an associations around the state.
"Rebuilding Michigan's economy means building Michigan's reputation as a state known for treating all people fairly, recognizing talent, rewarding hard work and a shared commitment to doing what it takes to strengthen our economy and attract jobs," said Jim Murray, President of AT&T Michigan.
Funding campaign under way for trans shelter
Brianna "Breezy" Golden-Farr and Elizabeth Howard are spearheading an unprecedented project that addresses the absence of emergency shelter housing for transgender women in Oakland. Called Queens Cottage Shelter, or QCS, the housing initiative, while still in its beginning stages, is quickly establishing a foundation that the project's team, supporters, and community are hopeful about.
In partnership with Transitions House, a local transgender housing advocacy group, QCS created an Indiegogo campaign last month to raise start-up funds. Clair Farley, Transitions House co-founder and associate director of economic development at the San Francisco LGBT Community Center, was able to leverage her social media aptitude for the project and within one week of going live, the campaign had surpassed the $5,000 goal.
At press time, the campaign had raised $9,475 with 22 days left to fundraise and there's one thing Golden-Farr, Howard, and Farley are sure about – QCS is going to need more.
The QCS team intends for the shelter to be a starting point for transwomen to gain stability and access to skills, resources, and health care in a safe and affirming environment. Golden-Farr and Howard foresee space for 10 residents initially, each with case workers, and a van to provide transportation to the shelter.
To donate to Queens Cottage Shelter, visit https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/trans-housing-now- queens-cottage-shelter. The campaign ends June 5.
Harvey Fierstein's Casa Valentina Will Drag On
Boys will be girls on Broadway for a bit longer than expected.
Casa Valentina, Harvey Fierstein's new play about husbands who identify as heterosexual but congregate in the Catskills to dress and act like housewives, has added two weeks of performances to its limited Broadway engagement. 63 Directed by out two-time Tony winner Joe Mantello (Take Me Out, Wicked), Casa Valentina opened April 23 at Manhattan Theatre Club's Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Originally scheduled to close June 15, the world premiere will now run through June 29.
"Back in 1962, most men went to the Catskill Mountains to escape the summer heat, but others took the two-hour drive to escape something else entirely: being men," read press notes about the drama, which is inspired by actual events.
Casa Valentina recently received four Tony nominations, including Best Play. The cast includes Reed Birney, John Cullum, Gabriel Ebert, Lisa Emery, Tom McGowan, Patrick Page, Larry Pine, Nick Westrate, and Mare Winningham.
A film adaptation is "under discussion," Deadline reports.
Md Gov Signs Trans Nondiscrimination Bill Into Law
Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley signed into law the Fairness for All Marylanders Act, extending housing, public accommodations, and employment protections to transgender citizens and visitors of the state. When the law goes into effect on October 1, Maryland will become the 18th state — along with Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico — to enact a statewide antidiscrimination law.
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October 19-26, 2014 Provincetown, Massachusetts
Scholarships Available for Fantasia Fair 2014
FANTASIA FAIR FOUNDATION and REAL LIFE EXPERIENCE, INC. 554 Boston Post Rd #187 Orange, CT 06477 Contact: Miqqi Alicia Gilbert Email: [email protected] http://www.fantasiafair.org
The Fantasia Fair Planning Committee will be awarding scholarships to the 40th annual Fantasia Fair, to be held October 19 - 26 in historic Provincetown, Massachusetts.
Individuals receiving full scholarships will receive free tuition to the Fair, including all seminars, workshops, banquets events, daily lunches/brunches, and shared room accommodations for seven nights. The scholarships are open to individuals of all ages who demonstrate financial need. Typically, six to eight scholarships are awarded and one of these scholarships goes to a couple. In addition, a number of partial scholarships will be awarded. All scholarship recipients will be responsible for their own transportation to and from Provincetown.
"We're proud to make this announcement" said Miqqi Alicia Gilbert, Executive Director of Fantasia Fair 2014. “Each year, the Fantasia Fair Foundation offers a number of scholarships as another way to help the community. Although we have been able to keep registration fees relatively low, we understand that some people still find it financially difficult to attend. These scholarships are an investment in the greater community. Scholarship recipients learn things at Fantasia Fair and then go back to their local communities to share what they learned.”
Scholarships are open to individuals of all ages who demonstrate financial need. Applicants will be required to submit an application that will describe why they want to attend Fantasia Fair and why they need a scholarships to attend the Fair. Scholarships will be awarded based upon the judgment of the Fantasia Fair Foundation Scholarship Committee.
Eligibility Requirements
* Have a financial need * Must have submitted a scholarship application by the submission deadline * If an applicant is under the age of 18, they must be accompanied to Fantasia Fair by a parent (or legal guardian) or provide, in advance, a notarized letter of permission from their parent (or legal guardian) * Must be willing to participate in and contribute time to the Fair during the week of Fantasia Fair 65 Submission Deadline
All materials must be received no later than July 15. Be sure to include your contact information. If you provide a phone number, please mention what name to ask for.
Scholarship Rules
* The applicant must meet the eligibility requirements outlined above * The applicant must submit a scholarship application which describes such things as why you want to come to Fantasia Fair and how your financial situation prevents you from otherwise attending * The scholarship application must be filled out accurately and completely * All scholarship-related material must be received no later than the stated submission deadline Following the submission deadline, the Fantasia Fair scholarship committee will evaluate all submissions and select which applicants are to be offered scholarships * Applicants offered a scholarship will be notified on or about August 15 * Applicants offered a scholarship must notify the Scholarship Committee of their acceptance within 2 weeks or risk forfeiture of that scholarship In the event that an applicants who is offered a scholarship is not able to attend Fantasia Fair or declines the scholarship, another applicant may be awarded that scholarship.
Email: [email protected]
Postal mail: Fantasia Fair Scholarships 554 Boston Post Rd #187 Orange, CT 06477
Additional details about Scholarships are available at www.fantasiafair.org/Scholarships.aspx. Information about the Fantasia Fair conference is available at www.fantasiafair.org.
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