Monday, July 29, 2024

A Bold Step Towards Gender Expression

Prom night is a significant milestone in the high school experience, a night filled with glamour, excitement and memories. Traditionally, it has been an event where gender norms are strictly adhered to with boys in tuxedos and girls in elegant dresses. However, in recent years, a growing number of high school males are challenging these norms by attending proms dressed as females. This bold move is not just about fashion; it’s a statement of self-expression and a step towards greater acceptance of gender diversity.

For many high school males, choosing to wear a dress to prom is a powerful act of self-expression. It allows them to showcase their true selves and break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles. This decision is often met with mixed reactions, ranging from admiration and support to confusion and criticism. Despite the potential for backlash, these students are paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting environment.

Xavier Parkins and Mom
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Twitter have played a crucial role in normalizing and celebrating this trend. Hashtags such as #PromQueen and #PromDressChallenge have created communities where individuals can share their experiences, offer support and inspire others to embrace their true selves. These platforms have also provided a space for allies to show their support and amplify the voices of those challenging gender norms.

There are numerous inspiring stories of high school males who have attended prom in dresses. For instance, Xavier Parkins, a 15-year-old student, made headlines when he attended his prom in a short pink strapless dress and was crowned Prom Queen. His story resonated with many, highlighting the importance of being true to oneself and the impact of supportive peers and school environments.

While there are many positive stories, there are also challenges. Some students face significant opposition from school administrations and peers. For example, Kevin Logan, an 18-year-old student, was turned away from his prom because he wore a dress. Such incidents underscore the ongoing struggle for acceptance and the need for policies that protect students’ rights to express their gender identity.

Support from friends, family, and school staff is crucial for students who choose to attend prom in a dress. Positive reinforcement can make a significant difference in their experience, helping them feel accepted and valued. Schools that foster an inclusive environment by allowing students to express themselves freely contribute to a more supportive and understanding community.

High school males attending prom dressed as females is more than a fashion statement; it’s a courageous act of self-expression and a step towards greater gender inclusivity. By challenging traditional norms and embracing their true selves, these students are not only making their prom night memorable but also paving the way for future generations to express their identities without fear. As society continues to evolve, it is essential to support and celebrate these brave individuals who are leading the charge towards a more inclusive world.



Source: Madeleine
Wearing Madeleine


Arte Johnson and Bert Convy
Arte Johnson and Bert Convy femulating on a 1977 episode of television’s The Love Boat.

Sunday, July 28, 2024

Friday, July 26, 2024

Menswear Revolution: Embracing Womenswear

In a surprising twist in the world of fashion, the latest trend sweeping the globe is men embracing women’s clothing. This new fad, dubbed “Womenswear for Men,” is not just a fleeting trend but a bold statement of individuality and comfort.

From flowy skirts to elegant blouses, men are redefining traditional gender norms and finding freedom in styles previously reserved for women. Fashion icons and celebrities have been spotted sporting these looks, inspiring a wave of followers eager to experiment with their wardrobes.

Fashion experts attribute this shift to a growing acceptance of gender fluidity and a desire for more diverse and comfortable clothing options. “It’s about breaking down barriers and expressing oneself without constraints,” says renowned fashion designer Alex Monroe. “Men are discovering the versatility and comfort of women’s clothing and it’s changing the fashion landscape.”

   Charles Greene and son, Maurice, are two men who wholeheartedly embrace the 
   “Womenswear for Men” movement.

Retailers are quickly adapting to this trend, with many launching new lines specifically designed for men who want to explore women’s fashion. Popular items include tailored dresses, stylish jumpsuits, and even high heels designed for male feet.

Social media is abuzz with hashtags like #MenswearRevolution and #FashionFreedom, as men proudly share their new looks and inspire others to join the movement. Influencers are hosting virtual fashion shows and offering tips on how to incorporate women’s clothing into everyday wear.

Critics, however, argue that this trend is just a marketing gimmick. But for many, it’s a genuine expression of personal style and a step towards a more inclusive fashion industry.

As the trend continues to gain momentum, one thing is clear: the lines between men’s and women’s fashion are blurring and the future of style is all about embracing individuality and breaking free from traditional norms.

Stay tuned as we follow this exciting development in the world of fashion!

Womenswear

Here are some iconic pieces of womenswear that men are embracing in the latest fashion trend:

Skirts and Kilts: Skirts, especially pleated and A-line styles, are becoming popular for their comfort and freedom of movement. Kilts, traditionally worn by men in Scotland, are also making a comeback as a stylish and bold choice.

Blouses and Tunics: Flowing blouses and tunics offer a relaxed fit and are often made from lightweight fabrics, making them a comfortable and fashionable option.

Jumpsuits and Rompers: These one-piece outfits are practical and stylish, providing a sleek look that can be dressed up or down.

High Heels: Some men are experimenting with high heels, finding them to be a powerful fashion statement. Designers are creating heels specifically designed for men’s feet, combining style with comfort.

Leggings and Tights: Often worn for their comfort and versatility, leggings and tights are being paired with longer tops or under shorts for a modern, layered look.

Dresses: Tailored dresses that fit the male physique are becoming more common, offering a unique and elegant style that challenges traditional gender norms.

These pieces are not just about fashion but also about expressing individuality and breaking down gender barriers in clothing.

(Editor’s Note: This article is wishful-thinking fiction.)



Source: Paige
Wearing Paige


Walter Brennan
Walter Brennan femulating on television’s The Red Skelton Show in 1970.

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Stuff: More Support

By J.J. Atwell

In my previous Stuff post, I wrote about finding support. That was directed at the CD/TG/TS among us. This time I’d like to take a different view – that of the significant other (SO).

First, I should clarify that I’m assuming most of us CDs are in a committed relationship – be it married, engaged or seriously involved with a partner. In general, I don’t think it matters what sex that partner is, they still need a support system. For the sake of convenience, I’ll refer to the SO with female pronouns here. 

Support for SOs

Those of us who have an SO in our life should be thinking about her need for support. I’m assuming that the SO knows about our CDing. It seems obvious to me that if the SO doesn’t know then the support question doesn’t come up. At least not for the CDing aspect of the relationship. 

For those where the SO knows but prefers a “don’t ask, don’t tell” (DADT) relationship, there is still a need for SO support. I would guess that these are the relationships that the SO could benefit most from finding some support. You may not talk about it, but the SO knows and in the back of her head, there is some uncertainty going on.

In relationships where the SO knows and is accepting, even she can benefit from some type of support. There are certainly professional therapists who she can visit with or without you. 

On a less formal basis, maybe she just wants to talk with other SOs in similar circumstances. This is where the CD belonging to a support group can be a real benefit to both parties. She can go to meetings with you and strike up friendships with the other SOs. It helps for them to know they aren’t the only ones in that situation and can see how others cope. I can say from personal experience that this has been a tremendous help for me and my SO.

I’ll be back

Yes, there will be more Stuff. In the meantime comments are welcome either here on the blog or by email to Jenn6nov at-sign gmail dot com. JJ is always looking for more stuff so if there is something you would like to read about please let me know!



Source: Boston Proper
Wearing Boston Proper


Jerry Lewis
Jerry Lewis femulating in the 1966 film Three on a Couch.

Monday, July 22, 2024

Sitting to Pee?

When I am presenting as a woman, I always use the restroom that matches my presentation. Usually, the ladies’ room, rarely the family room and never the men’s room. 

I admit that the first few times I used the ladies room, I was a little nervous about it, but I made sure to sit to pee and I never had a problem.

Unlike the men’s room where conversations between strangers is verboten, women do not have a problem engaging a stranger in conversation in the ladies’ room. 

I don’t want to push my luck, so I have never started a conversation in the ladies’ room, but I lost count how many times complete strangers have started conversations with me. Typically, the conversation starts with a compliment about something I am wearing and does not go beyond a thank-you on my part. But a few times, I have encountered chatterboxes who want to talk about everything under the Sun and I have successfully held up my end of those conversations without a problem. No one has ever run out of the restroom screaming, “There’s a man in the ladies’s room!”

I think it helps that my presentation is good enough that worst case, a stranger would be very hesitant to call me on it. And although I don’t affect a female voice, my vocabulary and mannerisms are feminine, so that complete the picture.

As I wrote above, I always use the restroom that matches my presentation, but in these times, I wonder if that is safe. 

My ham radio group holds a conference in the fall in different locations in the USA and Canada. This year, Knoxville, Tennessee was selected as the site of the conference. I had nothing to do with the selection and it is probably the last place I would have selected because Tennessee is rated as the worst state in the USA regarding trans and LGBTQ rights. Under Tennessee law, I could be arrested for using the ladies’ restroom to sit to pee!

Typically, our conferences are in hotels, so if I had to go, I could always run to my room and pee there and avoid any illegal encounters in a public ladies’ room. But this year, the conference is in a convention center, two blocks away from my hotel room. At my age, I would never make it to my hotel room in time without having an accident! So I was undecided about going.

My mind was made up for me because last week, my group cancelled the conference for logistical reasons. It’s a long story that I won’t get into here, but the decision to cancel had nothing to do with trans and LGBTQ rights.

That was a close call. It could have been a real life MAGA experience, but now I wonder if I will run into similar MAGA experiences attending other conferences in other states. For example, Hamvention in Ohio, which is not exactly a bastion of trans and LGBTQ rights. Maybe my perfect record in the ladies’ room is such that I have nothing to worry about, but with laws on the books specifically aimed at me, do I want to take a chance?



Source: Rent the Runway
Wearing Kate Spade


Louis Mandylor
Louis Mandylor femulating on television’s Down the Shore.

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Trump's Hidden Trans Agenda

During his speech at the Republic convention Thursday night, candidate Trump said, “We will not have men playing in women's sports, that will end immediately.” 

That is just the tip of the iceberg of Trump’s transgender agenda or more accurately, anti-transgender agenda.

According to Planet Trans...

The most dangerous internal threat to our constitutional federal republic is Project 2025, backed by the Heritage Foundation. These right-wing extremists understand that they need to intensify the dissatisfaction of their followers and to be successful as they have been in the past, focus that anger on transgender people. Brynn Tannehill is sounding the alarm at The New Republic

"At the 2023 Conservative Political Action Conference, Michael Knowles took the main stage and called for the “eradication of transgenderism from public life” to a standing ovation. Not long after, Project 2025 (led by the Heritage Foundation) published the “Mandate for Leadership,” a 900-plus-page blueprint for the next Republican administration. 

"The first legislative item in the executive summary declares that “transgender ideology” is a form of pornography, and that all pornography should be outlawed. It then goes on to call all trans people “child predators and misogynistic exploiters of women.” It further demands that anyone who is a “purveyor of transgender ideology” be put on sex offender lists and imprisoned."

It is no secret that Project 2025 is an integral part of Trump’s agenda. Just more reason not to vote for that twice-impeached, 34-time convicted felon.



Source: The Outnet
Wearing Aje


John Lithgow
John Lithgow femulating in an episode of television’s 3rd Rock from the Sun.