My story is similar to many transgenders. Born male, as I grew up it, being male never seemed to be a good fit for me. I was shy and a bit timid. My height ended up being an average woman’s, well below a average mans. I had relatively small hands as well. Above all I was feminine. I wanted to wear woman’s clothes, makeup, and appear as woman do.

Suppressing these feelings most of my life probably lead to depression, alcohol abuse, and eating disorders. Finally later in life I decided I really needed to explore my feminine side. I started to assemble all of the items needed to allow me to cross-dress. My first attempts were very rough, and a bit discouraging. I kept at it, and bought a little more stylish clothes, higher quality wigs, nail tips and polish, and worked more on makeup. Finally one day, after slipping on some pumps and looking at the mirror, I saw her. Not a passable woman, but the potential for someday becoming one.

So for my journey, I suppose every woman has a style. Mine is understated or refined feminine. I am not one for wearing stilettos and short skirts. I do like bright florals or colors, medium length hair, jewelry subtle but there. Medium length polished nails are my go to. I really like a medium cross body purse like the one pictured. Heels, yes I like wearing heels. 2 1/2 inch is probably my max height these days. I consider the classic white pumps I am wearing here timeless. A noticeable lipstick is always part of my appearance.

While dated I think the above picture does say a lot about my style and aspirations. Again the first person noticing I am not passable is me. Still as I finished with my wig and makeup and slid on these heels, the picture represents the real Brian Gladstone more than any of me as a man. Flaws and all and even before starting feminizing hormones, I have a lot more potential as a woman than ever as a man.