The Makeover…

Several years ago, I arranged a much anticipated makeover with Beth at Makeovers With Elizabeth Taylor.  (Though I haven’t been back since, it’s for valid financial reasons.) But take it from me – she’s fabulous! I recommend her highly if you’re in the area. The first two thirds of my makeover was spent with wig and clothing selection, and makeup.  The balance was the actual photography.  Beth has a nice selection of clothes – (even some for us more-substantial gals!)  But you certainly can use your own if you wish! 

In my case, I used one of her wigs (she put my natural hair in a french braid underneath, to keep it out of the way), and the sleeveless top and skirts shown are from her wardrobe.  But as an experiment, at the end she un-braided my natural hair, added some products, and took a few pictures of me in one of my own outfits, as well.

 This long skirt is quite comfortable, and it helps one feel rather elegant…

I was very comfortable in it…probably because I have a long tan skirt, which I enjoy.

However, Beth wanted to put me in something a bit more daring, so she handed me a shorter skirt… above. Once on, I realized how much “on display” I was! Definitely a WOW factor here.

While I was still contemplating that “almost naked feeling” – very visible pantyhosed legs, and bare arms, (ultimately deciding that I liked it – a lot), she put out some pumps for me…with quite a bit higher heels than my own.  Being curious, I picked the cute pair of peep-toes and put them on (above).  They looked fabulous, but I seriously wobbled if I tried to move.  Maybe it was the fit, or just lack of practice in skyscraper heels themselves.  If someone made me wear these heels every day, I’d most likely fall over! (At least till I got used to them…)

Then came the realization that: I wasn’t going anywhere, and they were very sexy-looking.   So they absolutely had to be my shoes of choice for that part of the photo shoot.   I didn’t move around much…didn’t fall over (below was actually posed and slightly risque), and loved the way the skirt and heels made me look!

 It’s amazing how much this shorter wig actually changes my appearance!

Others have told me that a short wig would separate my androgynous appearance from my feminine side , and I can see from these pictures that it’s true.  It really does give the “two of us” distinctly different “looks.”  That would be a big plus. 

However…

Given my own circumstances, a wig would be a lot of trouble to store, and from what Marian has said, they’re very hot to wear outside in the summertime.  That’s a big downside, since most of my activities en femme are in the warmer months. Even if I could overcome the storage issue, I can’t picture myself wearing a wig to a car show in 90-plus degree weather….the perspiration dripping down my face would ruin my makeup.  And I wouldn’t want to smell that wig the next day!  I’d have to get my stylist to wash it after every use.  There’s already more than enough expense keeping the gray hidden in my own natural hair, something I can’t give up – I’m just not prepared to add 5 years – or more –  to my apparent age by going gray.

Just before I published this, I visited the wig shop my stylist had suggested.  It was not a successful visit – see my “Quickie – the wig shop” post, dated the 16th.  Absent an unexpected miracle, that visit pretty much ended consideration of a short wig that could be styled in a more-or-less male style.  Whether it’s age-appropriate or not,  I like my feminine long hair too much!

Back to my own outfit, and my own hair –  I still truly enjoy having long hair!

Beth is a wonderful hostess, and she helped me realize the potential to look my best.  I’d recommend her makeovers to anyone, trans or otherwise.  And for those who might want to come in from afar, a  hotel is very convenient to her location.   You can’t go wrong!

After finishing up at Beth’s it was late, and I’m not a night owl.   So, I went back to the hotel to remove makeup, shower and hit the sack. Sometimes I wish I were a night owl…hitting the clubs sounds like fun.  But I’d probably be asleep at the table, not enjoying the sights!  C’est la vie! (Did I spell that right?)

What a weekend!

Mandy