Did you know that your clothes are the first thing people notice about you?
It’s true!
And it means that the right clothing is critical to your feminine image.
In this article I reveal 10 wardrobe essentials that belong in every crossdresser and transgender woman’s closet.
1. Little black dress
Every woman should own a little black dress. It’s a wardrobe staple. A simple black dress in a flattering length can go from day to night and will never go out of style.
2. Basic bra
A great fitting bra is every girl’s “breast” friend. Here are 3 tips for choosing the right bra:
- Start with the two basic bra colors: one black and one nude color that matches your skin tone.
- Avoid frilly or lacy textures that can be visible from beneath your clothes.
- If you wear breast forms, choose a full coverage bra with underwires and substantial straps.
Avoid the temptation to wear a white bra under white or lightweight fabrics; it tends to show through.
3. A vibrant scarf
A colorful scarf is a wardrobe must. Scarves are extremely versatile! A scarf can be worn around the neck to disguise an Adam’s apple or draped over the shoulders to minimize broadness of the body.
4. Black pumps
Shoes say more about you than any other accessory. Classic pumps are sexy, feminine, and work well with many types of clothes. Black pumps with a 2″-3″ heel and rounded toe are classic and will give you the most mileage. (Choose a lower heel if you are tall.)
5. Shoulder bag
Bags are a status symbol among women, so it’s worth investing in a great shoulder bag. You don’t have to splurge on a designer bag, but look for a classy, upscale design.
6. Waist cincher
We can all use a little help to slim our midsections. A waist cincher is a great way to trim the tummy! Here’s how to choose what type of cincher you need:
- For strong shaping effect, use a boned waist cincher
- For comfort with some control, use a shaping camisole
7. 2 skirts
Owning 2 basic skirts in neutral colors will give you almost endless options for mixing and matching with other items in your closet. Choose:
- One fitted skirt, like a pencil skirt
- One skirt that’s pleated or full
8. Sheer black hose or tights
Bare legs might be trendy now, but in cooler months, nothing beats the polished look of hosiery. Control top hose or tights are also great for helping flatten out the tummy. Go for classic black pantyhose or tights.
9. Figure flattering jacket
Jackets have endless uses. Since they are more structured than other pieces, they are great for figure shaping. Look for tailored jackets that accentuate the waist and add curves.
Some styles of jackets that work well for crossdressers and transgender women are:
- Peplums
- Belted styles
- Empire waists
- Gathered fabric
- Feminine details like princess seams and darts
Avoid boxy jackets and shoulder pads because you’re trying to downplay a boxy shape and broad shoulders, not draw attention to them.
10. Evening clutch
A sleek clutch can dress up even the most casual outfit and is a must for the evening. Clutches look more chic than shoulder bags at night and can really set your outfit apart.
What are YOUR wardrobe essentials?
These 10 pieces are a great place to start. Once you’ve covered the basics, the fun begins and you can add on pieces that reflect your own unique style.
Now I’d love to hear about YOUR favorite must-have essentials. Share them in the comments, or better yet, upload a pic of your favorite piece of clothing!
Love,
Lucille
I could not live without my Coach bag. Classic style, will stand in its own when I set it down, and plenty of internal compartments for all my necessities.
Good list, Lucille. I’d probably expand it to 15 items and some need to be adapted for age appropriateness. Carollyn’s books are great and please don’t miss my book on “Top Ten Fashion Mistakes By Crossdressers and How To Fix Them”, also on Amazon Kindle…just search under Tasi Zuriack
Mmmmm…all I’ve learnt is that anything off the shoulder or with spaghetti straps works well. I don’t have wide shoulders but covering them seems to make them look bigger – and less feminine…If I wear a jacket It tends to be short ( above my waist ) and the sleeves have to be lengthened…..
Women’s jeans are essential for me. My favorite jeans are Faded Glory ultimate boot cut mid rise. They fit me like a glove and have just enough stretch to be comfortable. They’re definitely girly jeans with a very short zipper and shallow front pockets. They probably won’t work for girls that are “large” in the crotch–but–as I am not they give me the hint of a camel toe. I got mine at Walmart for about $15.00. If you wear a waist cinching control brief under them it gets even better. A pair of black patent heels sets them off. My girlfriend (gg) really likes the way the look on me.
I like to wear skirts and dresses! I do need some more tops and shoes!
Angela Isabel Esparza you are a vary sexy lady ! I would like some tips on makeup if you have any?