A successful transformation allows you to blend into the crowd effortlessly.
Make-up, clothing and feminine presentation can be a captivating, sometimes overwhelming world for many crossdressers. Not everyone grew up with eyeshadow, blusher, bra sizes, skirt lengths, or the question of which dress truly flatters a male physique. And that is absolutely fine.
That's why on this page we're bringing together practical tutorials and visual step-by-step guides. No complicated jargon, no pressure to be perfect, and no inspecting yourself in the mirror. Instead, gentle, clear explanations to help you discover what suits you, step by step.
Here you will find tips on make-up, silhouette-correcting accessories, and clothing sizes. From eyeshadow to foundation, from breast forms to hip pads, from bra sister sizes to choosing a flattering dress. All with one goal: to help you shape your alter ego with more comfort, peace, and self-confidence.
For femininity isn't found in a single product, a single dress, or a single size label. It arises from the interplay of care, attitude, fit, style, and most importantly: how you carry yourself.
Putting on make-up isn't putting on a mask. It's making yourself visible in a way that feels good.
In addition to this online explanation, Travestie.Vlaanderen also offers the possibility to purchase certain good-quality accessories, such as wigs, breast forms and hip padding. This is especially useful for those who want to buy for the first time and prefer not to order blindly online. This way, you can better gauge what suits your body, how the material feels and what effect it has on your silhouette.
After all, you don't choose a wig, breast form or hip padding just with your eyes, but with your feelings too. Comfort, fit and confidence are at least as important as the appearance.
Within the sections below, you'll find step-by-step guidance on makeup, silhouette, and clothing. Take your time to explore what's relevant to you and practise at your own pace. Don't be too quick to settle, and don't be afraid to start over, but remember that perfection isn't necessary. Self-confidence often grows simply in front of the mirror, with a bit of makeup, a touch of daring, and a lot of kindness towards yourself.
No
Before
Make-up
After shaving thoroughly, also carefully shave against the direction of hair growth for the smoothest possible result. It is best to use a razor blade for this.
Then we'll start with the eye make-up. This way, any fallout or eyeshadow spills can be easily cleaned up before we apply the foundation.
Applying eyeshadow
What do you need
- Primer
- Eyeshadow palette
- Kohl pencil or eyeliner
- Mascara
- Three eyeshadow brushes
- Paintbrush
- Angled eyebrow brush
Apply an eyeshadow primer all over the eyelid up to just under the brow bone. This will help the eyeshadow adhere better and last longer.
Next, apply white eyeshadow from the inner corner of the eye to about halfway along the eyelid. The light colour makes the eyes appear optically larger and fresher.
The next step is to apply eyeshadow to the crease, the fold of the eyelid. Then, darken the outer corner of the eye slightly and gently blend the colour towards the centre of the eyelid. You can optionally apply a third colour to your eyeball.
Do not pull the eye tautly outwards when applying. Rather, gently lift the eyelid upwards.
Next, use a kohl pencil or eyeliner to draw a black line all around the eye. Stay as close to the lash line as possible and apply the pencil carefully to the waterline.
Try to blink as little as possible when applying. This takes some practice, so take your time and don't force anything.
The final step in eye makeup is applying mascara. For extra curl, you can first gently curl your lashes with an eyelash curler.
Next, apply the mascara from the roots to the tips of the lashes. This will give the lashes more volume and length and complete the eye look.
Eyebrow care and filling in
What do you need
- Spoolie
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- Trimmer
- Eyebrow pencil
Brush the hairs upwards and slightly outwards with the spoolie. This will reveal the natural shape.
Remove the hairs between the eye and the eyebrow. You can do this by plucking with tweezers, cutting with scissors, or trimming. Take your time to do this.
Foundation, contour and blush
Base, contour, blush and lip products.
- Cotton pads
- Face wash
- Beard cover
- Foundation
- Concealer (one schade lighter)
- Setting powder
- Dark foundation powder
- Blush
- Powder brushes
- Make-up sponge
- Highlighter brush
Start by cleansing your face with a facial cleanser and cotton pads. Gently remove any fallen eyeshadow powder at the same time.
Now we are going to neutralise the beard shadow with beard cover. This product usually has a peach or orange tint, which helps to cancel out the dark colour of the beard.
Apply the product by dabbing with a make-up sponge or use a slightly larger brush. Work in thin layers for a natural result.
Afterwards, we can even out the whole face with foundation. Apply the foundation to the entire face with a make-up sponge, dabbing it on. Work carefully around fine lines and wrinkles so that the product is evenly distributed and does not build up.
Pay extra attention to the eyebrows, so you don't smudge the shape and colour during application.
Foundation is available in liquid and powder forms, among others. Choose the variant that best suits your skin type and desired result.
Now powder the entire face with a translucent or white setting powder. This helps to set the foundation, reduce shine, and allows you to get on with your makeup immediately.
Apply the powder evenly all over the face with a large powder brush. Don't use too much product, so the result remains natural.
To make the face look more natural and defined, we apply a dark contour to the evened-out face. First, outline the main contour lines (forehead, nose, cheek, and jawline) and then blend them carefully.
Good blending is essential for a believable result: no harsh lines should remain visible. Take your time with this and build up the colour gradually.
If necessary, apply a small amount of highlighter to the upper part of the cheekbone, just below the outer corner of the eye. Use a fine brush for this and work very carefully.
Highlighter can quickly become too noticeable. Therefore, build the product up gradually and keep the result subtle and natural.
Lipstick
Lip necessities
- Lip pencil
- Lipstick
- Lipgloss
Begin by drawing the lip contour. Choose a lip pencil whose colour matches the lipstick you will use afterwards as closely as possible.
If you want to make your lips appear slightly fuller, draw just outside your natural lip line. Don't overdo it, as an overly large contour can quickly look unnatural.
A lip liner also helps to define the shape of the lips and prevents lipstick from bleeding.
Carefully fill the space within the lip contour with lipstick. Be particularly precise at the corners of your mouth, applying only a thin layer there.
Once the lips are nicely and evenly coloured, you can apply lip gloss if you wish. This gives the lips extra shine and makes them appear fuller.
Don't forget to take your lipstick in your handbag afterwards, so you can easily touch up the colour on the go.
Breast implants and padded pants
Breast prostheses
The first distinction you can make in breast prostheses is their shape.
Triangular shape.
Primarily gives volume to the bottom and sides. Best fits in a full cup bra.
Drip shape.
Full bottom and softer towards the top. Has the most natural shape
Oval shape.
Always fits properly in the bra.
Asymmetrical shape.
Always need a left and right prosthesis. Gives the most natural shape.
The second distinction is material and wearing
Foam prosthetics
- Light to carry
- Ideal with a nightgown
- Provides sufficient shape
- Less natural feeling
- Cannot leak
Silicone breast prostheses
- Soft, realistic and natural weight
- Moves naturally with you
- Sustainable and beautifully finished
- Most realistic option
- Worn in a bra or pocket bra
Self-adhesive silicone breast prosthesis
- Soft, realistic and natural weight
- Moves naturally with you
- Sustainable and beautifully finished
- To be worn directly on the skin
- Realistic option
- Worn in a bra, does not shift
- Requires maintenance
Breastplate
- Covers the full chest
- Gives a full cleavage
- Realistic feeling
- Harder to put on
- Can be sweaty, so use talcum powder
- Requires more work if the décolleté is visible, it also needs make-up.
For many people, buying breast prostheses is a personal choice. However, they can make a big difference to your silhouette. Many dresses, blouses and tops look better when there is a little extra shape at the bust line. It’s not about perfection, but about balance, comfort and looking in a way that makes you feel good.
Nowadays, breast prostheses are available in different materials, shapes and price ranges. This means there is often a suitable solution for every budget. Foam prostheses are usually light and easy to use. Silicone breast prostheses generally feel more natural and provide more weight and shape, but require a bit more care.
When purchasing, please note that not all silicone breast prostheses are suitable for sleeping with. You should therefore always check the information provided by the retailer or manufacturer. This will help prevent damage to the material and ensure the prosthesis retains its appearance for longer.
The right size depends very much on your own build. A larger breast prosthesis isn’t automatically better or more natural. Focus particularly on your shoulder width, chest circumference, body type and the bra size that suits your body. Also bear in mind that some bra sizes are easier to find than others. For example, a 90A bra may be harder to find than a 90C. It’s worth taking this into account when making your choice.
Self-adhesive breast prostheses usually don't stay firmly in place on their own. They are often intended to be worn with a well-fitting bra. If you want a prosthesis to adhere directly to the skin, special skin-friendly or medical adhesive is usually required. Never use ordinary glue or products not intended for the skin for this purpose.
Above all, take your time, be practical and be kind to yourself. A good breast prosthesis not only supports your clothing, but can also help boost your confidence in how you present yourself. You don’t have to make the perfect choice straight away. As with so many aspects of cross-dressing and gender expression, you can explore things step by step.
Butt shaper
A butt shaper is a shaping garment worn under clothing to give the silhouette more balance, curves and volume. For cross-dressers and transgender people, this can help clothes fit better and create a more feminine silhouette.
With butt-shaping pants, you can make a distinction between models that primarily accentuate the hips and models that primarily accentuate the bum. Some versions combine both effects.
Hip padding provides extra volume at the side of the body. This helps to create an hourglass figure more quickly: the waist appears narrower, the hip line becomes rounder and dresses or skirts often drape more naturally.
Bottom enhancers mainly give more volume at the back. They provide a fuller profile from the side and rear, which is especially noticeable in trousers, skirts and fitted dresses.
Which choice is best depends on your own build and the effect you're looking for. Those who particularly want an hourglass figure should opt for hip accentuation. Those who particularly want more curve at the back should opt for bum accentuation. A combination of both can create a more balanced overall look. Remember to always cover your genitals with specially designed, highly elastic underwear or tight-fitting briefs.
Clothing
Measure bra size
To calculate your bra size, you need two measurements: your underbust and overbust. Especially when wearing breast prostheses, it's best to measure with the prostheses in place, so the cup size matches the silhouette you actually want to wear.
How to measure the dimensions?
Measure the top circumference
Measure around the widest part of the bust line. When doing so, wear the breast forms as you normally would. The tape measure should run horizontally, without digging in.
Measure the underbust
Using a flexible measuring tape, measure around the chest just below the bust. The tape should run horizontally and fit snugly, but not tightly.
From the underbust measurement, you can directly deduce the bra size.
We will always use the EU size here.
| Measured circumference | European dress size |
|---|---|
| 68–72 cm | 70 |
| 73–77 cm | 75 |
| 78–82 cm | 80 |
| 83–87 cm | 85 |
| 88–92 cm | 90 |
| 93–97 cm | 95 |
| 98–102 cm | 100 |
| 103–107 cm | 105 |
| 108–112 cm | 110 |
After that, you can calculate the cup size. Calculate the difference between the bust measurement and the underbust measurement.
| Difference | Cup size |
|---|---|
| 12–14 cm | A |
| 14–16 cm | B |
| 16–18 cm | C |
| 18–20 cm | D |
| 20–22 cm | E |
| 22–24 cm | F |
| 24–26 cm | G |
Example European size
Under circumference 84 cm
Upper circumference with prosthetics: 101 cm
17 17 cm difference
A chest circumference of 84 cm gives bra size 85.
A difference of 17 cm gives cup C.
The European bra size is therefore: 85°C.
French bra size calculation
French bra sizes are often used in Belgium, France, and some webshops. The main difference lies in the band size. The cup size usually remains the same.
The French tyre size is typically:
European bra size + 15
| European size | French size |
|---|---|
| 70 | 85 |
| 75 | 90 |
| 80 | 95 |
| 85 | 100 |
| 90 | 105 |
| 95 | 110 |
| 100 | 115 |
| 105 | 120 |
French size example
The European size from the example was 85°C.
85 + 15 = 100
The French bra size is therefore approximately: 100°C.
Important for breast prostheses
When it comes to breast prostheses, it's not just about calculations, but also about balance. The chosen cup size should suit your build, shoulder width, and the readily available bras. A slightly smaller or larger cup can sometimes look better, depending on the shape of the prosthesis and the type of bra.
Therefore, always have fittings with the prostheses you intend to wear. A foam prosthesis, silicone prosthesis, or adhesive prosthesis can each provide a different volume and shape.
What are bra sister sizes?
Sister sizes are bra sizes that have approximately the same cup volume but a different band size. They are useful when the cup fits well, but the band around your chest feels too tight or too loose.
The rule is simple: if you go one band size up, choose one cup size down. If you go one band size down, choose one cup size up.
For example: the sister sizes of 85C are 80D and 90B. The cup volume remains approximately the same, but the band size changes.
For those who wear breast prostheses, sister sizes can be very helpful. Sometimes the prosthesis fits nicely in the cup, but the bra does not fit comfortably around the body. In such cases, a sister size can help maintain the same shape with a better fit.
Measuring a blouse size
| Letter | Measurement you take | Where are you measuring? |
|---|---|---|
| A | Chest measurement | Around the widest point of the chest, with breast prostheses and t-shirt on |
| B | Waist circumference | Around the narrowest part of the waist or just above the belly button |
| C | Hip or groin | Around the bottom of the t-shirt / at hip height |
| D | Shoulder width | From shoulder point to shoulder point, measured across the back |
| E | Shoulder to sleeve edge / short sleeve length | From the shoulder seam to the end of the short sleeve |
| F | Arm's length | From the shoulder to the wrist |
Determining European size
Compare your measured body dimensions with this guideline table:
| European size | Chest circumference | Waist | Hip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | 84–88 cm | 66–70 cm | 90–94 cm |
| 38 | 88–92 cm | 70–74 cm | 94–98 cm |
| 40 | 92–96 cm | 74–78 cm | 98–102 cm |
| 42 | 96–100 cm | 78–82 cm | 102–106 cm |
| 44 | 100–106 cm | 82–88 cm | 106–112 cm |
| 46 | 106–112 cm | 88–94 cm | 112–118 cm |
| 48 | 112–118 cm | 94–100 cm | 118–124 cm |
| 50 | 118–124 cm | 100–106 cm | 124–130 cm |
| 52 | 124–130 cm | 106–112 cm | 130–136 cm |
| 54 | 130–136 cm | 112–118 cm | 136–142 cm |
This is how you choose the right size
First, take your chest circumference A as a basis. Assume that with a T-shirt, bra, and breast prostheses, you have a chest circumference of 104 cm, and you'll end up with approximately size 44.
Next, check your waist B and your hip measurement C. If your chest measurement is size 44, but your waist or hips fit a size 46 better, then usually choose Size 46. A blouse needs to close everywhere without pulling.
With a button-up blouse, it's better not to choose one that's too tight. A blouse that fits your body exactly might pull open at the buttons. So it’s best to allow for a little extra room to move.
Add clearance
For a blouse, it's best to add some extra room to your body measurements:
| Fit | Extra room on chest circumference |
|---|---|
| Tight/close-fitting | 2–4 cm |
| Normally comfortable | 4–6 cm |
| Loose / easily falling | 6–10 cm |
For breast prostheses, 4 to 8 cm of extra space is often more attractive and comfortable.
Example:
Your chest circumference with prostheses is 104 cm.
You want a comfortable blouse.
104 cm + 6 cm = 110 cm desired blouse width.
Then you'd better look at a blouse that around the chest approximately 110 cm space. In many size charts, you'll then come closer to Size 46 Then that's right for size 44.
Important tip for ordering online
Always check the webshop's size guide. European sizes vary by brand. A size 44 in one brand might feel like a 42 or 46 in another. How convenient, this world of fashion… but not always logical.
When in doubt, also measure a blouse that fits you well. Lay it flat on a table, measure from armpit to armpit, and multiply that measurement by two. This way, you'll know what chest circumference is comfortable for you.
Measuring dress sizes
| Letter | Size | What is this measure for? |
|---|---|---|
| A | Chest circumference | Measure around the widest point of the bustline. This is important when wearing breast prostheses, as the dress needs to drape nicely there without being tight. |
| B | Waist circumference | Measure around the narrowest part of your waist. Important for fitted dresses or dresses with a waist seam. |
| C | Hip circumference / upper body width | Measure around the bottom of the T-shirt or the top hip area. Useful with fitted dresses. |
| D | Hip circumference / widest point of the hips | Measure around the widest point of your hips and bottom (wearing your protheses). This is very important for fitted dresses, pencil dresses and stretch dresses. |
| E | Front shoulder width | Measure from shoulder point to shoulder point across the front. Important for the fit around the neck, shoulders and upper chest. |
| F | Short sleeve length / sleeve opening | Measure from the shoulder to the end of the short sleeve. Useful for short-sleeved dresses. |
| G | Front length | Measure from the shoulder, over the bust line, to where the dress should end. With breast prostheses, this measurement is important as the fabric covers more distance at the front. |
| H | Shoulder width at the back | Measure from shoulder tip to shoulder tip across the back. This is important for comfort and freedom of movement. |
| I | Back length | Measure from the nape of the neck or highest shoulder area to the desired dress length at the back. |
| J | Arm's length | Measure from the shoulder to the wrist. Particularly necessary for dresses with long sleeves. |
| K | Upper arm circumference | Measure around the widest part of the upper arm. Important if you have strong arms or if the dress has narrow sleeves. |
| L | Rear hip width | Measure around the widest part of the hips/buttocks at the back. Useful for checking if the dress is pulling at the back. |
| M | Inside leg measurement | This measurement is less essential for most dresses but can be useful for long, fitted, or evening gowns to determine how low the dress will fall. |
To start with your mates at a European dress size to come, you mainly depart from three body measurements:
A = chest of drawers
Waist circumference
Hip circumference
With a dress, it’s usually the largest measurement which determines your final size. After all, a dress not only needs to fit at the bust, but also fall beautifully over the waist and hips.
Determining European dress size
Compare your measurements to this guideline table:
| European size | Chest circumference | Waist circumference | Waist circumference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | 84–88 cm | 66–70 cm | 90–94 cm |
| 38 | 88–92 cm | 70–74 cm | 94–98 cm |
| 40 | 92–96 cm | 74–78 cm | 98–102 cm |
| 42 | 96–100 cm | 78–82 cm | 102–106 cm |
| 44 | 100–106 cm | 82–88 cm | 106–112 cm |
| 46 | 106–112 cm | 88–94 cm | 112–118 cm |
| 48 | 112–118 cm | 94–100 cm | 118–124 cm |
| 50 | 118–124 cm | 100–106 cm | 124–130 cm |
| 52 | 124–130 cm | 106–112 cm | 130–136 cm |
| 54 | 130–136 cm | 112–118 cm | 136–142 cm |
This is how you choose the right size
Measure yourself with the prostheses (breasts, hips) and the bra or top you plan to wear under the dress. Then compare A, B and D with the table.
Example:
| Size | Measured |
|---|---|
| A breast circumference | 104 cm |
| B waist measurement | 92 cm |
| The hip circumference | 110 cm |
That will take you to:
- bust 104 cm = approximately size 44
- waist 92 cm = approximately Size 46
- hip circumference 110 cm = approximately size 44
As the waist size is 46, in this example you should choose Size 46. A dress that’s too tight in one place usually doesn’t drape well.
Please note the style of the dress
In the event of a A-line dress Your chest and waist are the most important. The hips are given more room.
In the event of a fitted dress With a sheath dress, your bust, waist and hips are all three important. In that case, it’s best to choose the size that matches your largest measurement.
In the event of a stretch dress You can sometimes choose a size a little closer to your actual measurements, as the fabric stretches (but marks more).
In the event of a dress without stretch It’s best to allow for a bit of extra room. Especially if you’re wearing breast prostheses, the dress mustn’t be tight across the bust.
Special attention to breast prostheses
Breast prostheses don't just change your chest circumference, but also how the fabric falls at the front. Therefore, also pay attention to:
G = front length
The measurement is important because the fabric must cover more distance over the bust line.
A dress may be a nice length at the back, but it might ride up a bit at the front because of the breast prostheses. It’s worth checking this, especially with straight or fitted dresses.
A practical rule of thumb
For a comfortable dress, it’s best to allow a bit of extra room:
| Type of dress | Extra space |
|---|---|
| Stretch dress | 2–4 cm |
| Standard dress | 4–6 cm |
| Dress without stretch | 6–8 cm |
| Fitted dress with prostheses | Rather not too tight |
Choosing dresses
| Letter | Names based on length | Use / occasion | Blend in on the street? |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Microdress / very short mini dress | Party, club, private, statement evening look | Difficult. This length attracts attention quickly, especially during the day. |
| B | Mini dress | Summer evening, party, terrace, informal outing | Yes, but it remains noticeable. Best worn with tights, a cardigan, or a longer coat. |
| C | Above-the-knee dress | Casual, day trip, lunch, shopping moment, get-together | Very easy. This is an accessible length for everyday use. |
| D | Knee-length dress | Daily, work style, restaurant, family visit, association | Highly suitable. This is often the most discreet and elegant choice. |
| E | Just-below-the-knee dress | Neat, stylish, restaurant, reception, association | Very suitable. Feminine without being too provocative. |
| F | Midi dress | Restaurant, cultural outing, reception, evening activity | Good to wear, especially if the cut is relaxed and not too tight. |
| G | Maxi dress | Summer, holiday, evening walk, informal occasion | Certainly, but the length and fabric sometimes make them more noticeable. |
| H | Long evening dress / ball gown | Gala, party, ceremony, formal evening event | Not for everyday wear. Very eye-catching outside of a party context. |
Practical explanation per dress
A - Micro-dress
This dress is very short and really emphasizes the legs and body shape. It’s lovely for a distinctly festive or playful look, but less suitable if you want to go out discreetly. As a cross-dresser, this length will quickly attract attention, not because you’re ‘in the wrong’, but because the dress itself is eye-catching.
B - Mini dress
A mini-dress is slightly more wearable than a micro-dress, but still remains quite striking. It's perfectly suitable for a party, summer evening, or a safe LGBTQ+ environment. During the day on the street, it's less discreet. With tights, flat shoes, and a cardigan, the whole look becomes softer and more understated.
C - Dress above the knee
This is a good intermediate size. The dress is feminine but still quite casual. For a first step outside, this could be a nice choice, especially if the colour is calm and the fabric isn't too tight.
D - Knee-length dress
The knee-length dress is often the safest and most elegant choice. It looks neat, balanced, and not too attention-grabbing. For those who, as a crossdresser, like to go out without drawing too much attention, this is usually one of the best lengths.
E - Just-below-the-knee dress
This length often gives a stylish, mature look. It's very suitable for a gathering, a restaurant visit, or a quiet outing. Because the length is a bit more classic, it usually feels less challenging.
F - Midi dress
A midi dress usually falls somewhere between the knee and the ankle. It can be very elegant, but pay attention to the cut. A fitted midi dress strongly emphasises the silhouette, while a looser style looks more relaxed. It's certainly wearable outdoors, especially in a subdued colour.
G - Maxi dress
A maxi dress is long and can be wonderfully comfortable. In the summer or on holiday, it looks very natural. In a city or in colder weather, it can stand out a bit more, depending on the colour, fabric, and style. A simple maxi dress is much more discreet than a festive version.
H - Long evening dress
This is a true occasion dress. Perfect for a gala, party, or ceremony, but not intended for quietly strolling down the street. Outside of a party context, it draws a lot of attention. This is therefore more a dress for a special moment than for a first outing.
Which length is easiest for a transvestite or crossdresser?
For those who like to be outdoors without drawing too much attention, these lengths are usually most suitable:
C – above the knee
D – knee-high
E – just below the knee dress
F – medium, if quiet model
The most discreet choice is often D of E. The lengths are elegant, mature and suit many situations. They give shape without immediately shouting “look at me”. And sometimes that's exactly what you want: to be able to step outside, not to stand out, but to be yourself.
Choosing a skirt
| Letter | Names based on length | Use / occasion | Blend in on the street? |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Micro-skirt / very short mini-skirt | Party, club, private, statement evening look | Difficult. This length attracts attention quickly, especially during the day. |
| B | Mini-skirt | Summer evening, terrace, party, informal outing | Yes, but it remains noticeable. It's more wearable with tights and sensible shoes. |
| C | Short skirt / mini skirt | Casual, day trip, get-together, shopping trip | Reasonably wearable, especially if the skirt isn't too tight. |
| D | Mini skirt | Casual chic, lunch, association, informal outing | Good to wear. Feminine without being overly conspicuous. |
| E | Knee Skirt | Daily, work style, restaurant, family visit, association | Highly suitable. This is often the most discreet and elegant choice. |
| F | Just-below-the-knee skirt / pencil skirt | Neat, stylish, restaurant, office style, reception | Very suitable, but a slim pencil skirt emphasises the silhouette more. |
| G | Midi skirt | Restaurant, cultural outing, evening activity, smart occasion | Good to wear. Elegant and usually less conspicuous than short skirts. |
| H | Maxi skirt / long skirt | Summer, holiday, quiet outing, informal or elegant occasion | Quite possible, but due to the length, sometimes a bit more noticeable depending on the fabric and colour. |
Practical explanation per year
A - Micro-skirt
This skirt is very short and quickly attracts attention. It is especially suitable for a party, club, private setting or a very bold evening look. For a first walk on the street, this is usually not the easiest choice. Not because it's not allowed, but because the skirt itself can already attract a lot of looks.
B - Mini-skirt
A mini-skirt is slightly more wearable than a micro-skirt, but remains playful and eye-catching. It can be lovely for a summer evening, a safe LGBTQ+ environment, or a casual outing. With dark tights, flat shoes or boots, and a slightly looser top, it looks more understated.
C - Short skirt above the knee
This length is often a good intermediate option. It still shows off some leg, but is less daring than a mini skirt. For those who like to dress femininely without drawing too much attention, this can be a good choice. Pay particular attention to the fit: slightly less tight usually looks more discreet.
D - Skirt above the knee
This skirt is feminine, fresh and quite easy to wear. Combined with a smart blouse or cardigan, it can look very polished. For gatherings, a lunch, or a relaxed outing, this is a lovely choice.
E - Knee-skirt
The knee-length skirt is one of the safest and most elegant choices. It suits many ages, styles and occasions. For transvestites and crossdressers who like to go out without drawing too much attention, this is often a very good length. Tidy, feminine, yet understated.
F - Knee-length skirt / pencil skirt
This length looks stylish and mature. A pencil skirt can be very beautiful, but it does accentuate the body line. If you wear hip prosthetics or padded underwear, that can give a nice silhouette. If you want to remain more discreet, choose a fabric that is not too thin or too tight.
G - Midi skirt
A midi skirt usually falls somewhere between the knee and the ankle. This length is elegant and often very wearable. It moves beautifully, covers sufficiently, and can be worn both casually and chicly. A midi skirt with a gentle A-line is usually easier to wear on the go than a very fitted style.
H - Maxi dress
A maxi skirt is long, comfortable, and can be very elegant. In summer or on holiday, it looks very natural. On the street, a long, flowing skirt can sometimes attract a little more attention, especially if the fabric is festive. A simple maxi skirt in a muted colour, on the other hand, is very wearable.
Which skirts are the easiest for outdoors?
For those who like to go out as a transvestite or crossdresser without attracting too much attention, these lengths are usually most suitable:
D – skirt over the knee
E - Knee skirt
F – just-below-the-knee skirt
G – midi skirt
The most discreet option is often E or G. Those lengths are elegant, mature and fit many situations. They give a feminine appearance without being immediately over-the-top.
Attitude
Sitting with a skirt or dress
A beautiful outfit doesn't stop at the clothes themselves. Your posture also plays a role in how you come across. When you wear a skirt or dress as a crossdresser, or part-time woman, sitting sometimes requires a little extra attention. That's completely normal. Many of us have been used to sitting in a more masculine way for years. Therefore, during a transformation into a woman, it can be helpful to consciously practice posture, legs, and back.
A well-postured sitting position need not be stiff or exaggerated. It is primarily about poise, elegance and awareness. A straight back, relaxed shoulders, legs together and hands resting calmly: small details that make a big difference.
What do you pay attention to when sitting?
When wearing a skirt or dress, length is important. The shorter the skirt, the more attention you need to pay to the position of your legs. A short skirt or dress requires closed knees and a controlled posture. With a longer skirt you have a bit more freedom of movement, but even then, a neat posture remains more elegant.
A good foundation
- Sit up straight, with a long back.
- Let your shoulders drop loosely, but don't slouch.
- Keep the knees closed or close together.
- Place your feet evenly together, at an angle or crossed.
- Rest your hands loosely on your lap.
- Avoid wide-open legs when wearing a skirt or dress.
Open legs under a skirt or dress quickly look untidy and break up the feminine silhouette. That's not a disaster, certainly not during a cosy evening at De Poederdoos, but it is something you'll pay more attention to with a bit of practice. Practice makes perfect – and a mirror is a patient friend in this.
Legs closed straight down
This is the simplest and safest sitting posture. The knees remain together and the lower legs are positioned straight down. This posture is calm, neat, and suitable for almost any skirt or dress length.
She is especially useful with shorter skirts as she gives a lot of control. Be mindful of keeping the knees from falling apart and the feet close together. The back remains straight and the hands rest relaxed on the lap.
Suitable for: short skirt, knee-length skirt, dress above or at the knee, formal and informal situations.
Appearance Neat, simple, discreet.
Legs crossed
Crossed legs often give an elegant appearance. This pose can look very feminine, but requires some attention with shorter skirts or dresses. With a mini-dress or short skirt, this pose can quickly reveal too much, especially when the fabric shifts upwards.
This pose usually works beautifully with a knee-length or midi-length skirt. Ensure the legs are crossed casually, without sitting too wide. The top foot can hang relaxed or point slightly downwards.
Suitable for: Shift dress, knee-length dress, midi dress, smart or elegant occasions.
Appearance Feminine, stylish, slightly more elegant.
Legs closed, tilted to one side
This is a particularly elegant pose. The knees remain together and both legs are placed diagonally to one side. This pose optically elongates the legs and appears soft and feminine, without being overstated.
She is very suitable when you wear a skirt or dress and still want to sit comfortably. This position can also work well with slightly shorter skirts, as long as the knees remain closed and the skirt provides sufficient coverage.
Suitable for: Knee-length dress, midi dress, straight dress, pencil skirt, stylish gatherings.
Appearance Elegant, well-groomed, calmly feminine.
Your posture counts too
Besides the legs, the back is also important. A straight back makes the whole presentation neater. Slouching shoulders or a hunched posture can make a beautiful outfit less striking. This doesn't mean you have to sit like a statue. Think more along the lines of: chest gently open, shoulders relaxed, crown slightly lifted.
A small tip: don't sit on the edge of your seat, tense, but don't slump down completely either. Find a natural, straight posture where you remain comfortable.
Walking in heels
Walking in heels, posture, balance and an elegant stride.
Walking in heels isn't about trying to move as femininely as possible. It starts with balance, good posture, and controlled steps. Especially if you have little experience, it's important to practice slowly and not immediately start with very high or narrow heels.
In the videos, you see the same running motion from two angles. The front view shows foot placement and body posture, while the side view clearly illustrates how the foot rolls and how the weight shifts with each step.
1. A stable base
Stand up straight with your weight evenly distributed over both feet. Keep your knees slightly relaxed, not locked.
Imagine a straight line from ear to shoulder, hip, and ankle. Keep your head straight and look forward.
Gently draw your shoulders back and down. Your chest is open, without excessive tension. Keep your abdomen lightly engaged and your pelvis neutral.
2. Look ahead
Many beginners look at their feet, but that makes it harder to keep your balance.
Look a few metres ahead and scan the ground in front of you. This will help you maintain a natural, stable posture.
3. Small, controlled steps
When walking in heels, short steps work best. Taking long strides makes it harder to control your weight properly.
Don't place your feet too far in front of your body. Let your movement gently “flow” with your stride.
4. Feet close to the centre line
Imagine a straight line on the ground and place your feet close to it.
You don't need to cross your legs excessively. Subtle placement will naturally create an elegant hip movement, without you having to force it.
5. Smooth foot roll-off
When wearing pumps, you usually place the heel down first, followed by the forefoot. Then, roll through the foot gently.
Don't plant your foot down hard. The movement needs to remain fluid and controlled.
6. Relaxed knees
Keep your knees slightly bent. Too tight will make your stride stiff, too loose will make you unstable.
Find a relaxed middle ground for natural movement.
7. Rest your upper body
Keep your upper body stable and avoid excessive shoulder movement.
Think of an upright posture where your head, chest, and pelvis remain aligned. Let your arms move naturally.
If you're carrying a handbag, switch it from side to side to avoid pulling one shoulder more than the other.
8. No forced movement
Elegance does not come from exaggerated movements, but from control and calmness.
Focus on:
Stay upright
Breathe calmly
Short steps
Controlled unrolling
Look ahead
Relaxed shoulders
9. Stop and Start
Start from a standstill and gently shift your weight onto one foot.
When stopping, you shorten your steps and bring your feet together in a controlled manner, or slightly past each other.
10. Practising in stages
Start on a flat surface with low heels. Gradually work your way up to higher or narrower heels.
Practice separately:
Walk straight
Stop
Turning
Reverse
Walk with bag
Different surfaces
Stop if you feel pain or discomfort. Good shoes should offer support, not force your feet.
What do the videos show?
The front view mainly shows posture and foot placement. The hip movement here is primarily due to the way of stepping, not conscious movement.
The side view clearly shows the roll of the foot and the transfer of weight. The movement remains stable and controlled, with scope for slightly shorter strides and softer knees to achieve greater fluidity.
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Walking well in heels isn’t about grand gestures, but about control, balance and relaxation. Once you’ve got the basics right, elegance comes naturally.