For many years I was a closet tranny, never venturing out of the door or dressing in front of my family, but when I got to my middle forties I decided to pluck up courage and go out at night when my family were away. I had secretly been buying clothes for a long time, but if I was to start going out, I had to try to do it properly. I already had a nice black skirt from C&A, A-line as was the fashion in the early eighties, and knee length. I bought a matching blouse from Paige’s and a black velvet jacket from Marks and Spencer. I’ve still got a very old wig which my wife had left to be thrown out.

I needed to get something to walk in as the only shoes I had were from the sixties or a pair of very high and strappy stilettos which were too awkward to walk in for any distance. I did the rounds and finished up with a pair of 3 inch stilettos from the Clock House at C&A. Just an ordinary little black court shoe – I’m a size six and a half.

I already had some good underwear, a few accessories and some makeup items. I just bought a a nice new pair of black tights and I was ready to go!

I spent the afternoon getting ready – having a bath, shaving my legs and body, etc, then it was time to get dressed. I took my time with my makeup (which I’m still not very good at) but at last I felt finished. I was very nervous, but my mind was made up. I went downstairs, poured a martini and waited until the lights had gone off in all the surrounding houses. I live in a small village on an even smaller estate, where everyone knows everyone else. It would be disastrous to be found out as I’m sure all closet trannies feel.

At last the coast seemed clear. I gingerly opened the front door and ventured out onto the step. I live in a large circle at the end of a cul-de-sac and had previously decided to go for a walk round the block, which is about half a mile.

The three inch stilettos were really comfortable and I had no trouble walking in them. After all these years they are still my favourite shoes. I have had the tips renewed several times.

I enjoyed feeling the air around my legs and the movement of my skirt. It was lovely.

I made it safely back home, poured another martini and sat down to savour what I had just done. I had done what I had wanted to do for decades – I had been out as a woman.

I’ve been out many times since – over a hundred, but nearly always on my little late night walk round the block. A few times I’ve got a little more adventurous and taken the longer walk down to the main road and the bus stop.

Eventually I wanted more. I wanted to be seen, but not found out. I chose a rainy night and went out a little earlier than usual. The rain was useful as I could use my umbrella to hide behind. Still just on my little walk round the block. When I was nearly back home a neighbour drove past in her car. She had seen a woman walking up the road with an umbrella and shoulder bag. Still in the three inch stilettos. Diane had seen me and never gave it another thought. I felt great!

Shortly afterwards I went out in my pale blue flowered sundress under a different black jacket with a ‘Classic Woman’ label inside. Even the label makes me feel good! My dress has a wide mid-length skirt and before I went out I wasn’t too happy with the way it was hanging so I put on an extra petticoat. That made me feel a lot happier.

By that time we had had new and much stronger street lighting put in our road. Nevertheless my confidence was growing and I set off without worrying. I had only gone about thirty yards when I became aware of a young neighbour walking along on the other side of the street. He was looking at me. I just carried on. Stuart must have thought I was worth looking at. I was pleased I’d put on that extra petticoat! Naturally, I was wearing the three inch stilettos again. He probably heard me coming before he saw me!

As we went through the nineties skirts got shorter and some of my older dresses were again wearable. It was fabulous to go out in a short skirt. Something which I had never dared do when I was younger. No, I don’t dress like a teenager, but its acceptable now for the older woman to wear things which are in fashion. I bought a couple of new skirts to bring me up to date – a plain black velvet and a green/grey check from M&S and a short black waist slip from BHS to go under them.

One night whilst wearing my black skirt I went a bit further than usual along the main road to the post. (I really did have an important business letter!) A few cars passed and I felt terrific at having been seen in a short skirt and heels. I was wearing a pair of sling backs which didn’t hold my heels very well and I hobbled quite a bit. It was winter so I was also wearing 60 denier black tights which had become the in thing.

As I was walking back up the entrance road to the estate, which is quite steep, I was suddenly flat on the ground. I banged my head quite badly on the footpath. My wig came off. As I got slowly up, I felt a dampness and realised that it was blood from where I had hit my head. The sling backs had stayed on, so I put my wig back, gathered my bag and walked as fast as I could back home. The walk was quite painful.

When I saw myself in the bathroom mirror I couldn’t believe the size of the gash above my right eyebrow. It was deep and looked as if it had been done neatly with a knife. I still have a slight mark. I eventually managed to stop the bleeding, which had been quite profuse and stained my blouse badly, and started to get undressed. To my amazement I had badly grazed both knees, but the 60 denier tights were unscathed!

I was lucky not to have been knocked out. What would have happened if someone had come across this unconscious, unbewigged but fully dressed tranny doesn’t bear thinking about. The next day I went to the doctor for a checkup and was pronounced fit but lucky. He asked if the wound had been stitched, as it had come back together so neatly.

It was the second time I had fallen while dressed. The first time was when trying to run in those strappy four inch stilettos I mentioned earlier. Needless to say, I don’t go out walking in sling backs anymore!

My desire to dress was still as strong as ever, but for a while I didn’t actually do it. Then I went out and bought a pair of boots from Shoe City and could not resist going out in them straight away. They are so comfortable. They are the kind which come just up to the back of the knee. I walked quite a bit further than ever before and again was seen by about ten people in cars who took no notice.

On the way back I met some other people out walking. I could hear male voices coming towards me and I felt vulnerable both as a tranny and as a woman.

I decided to cross to the other side of the road, probably as any other woman would. They just passed by deep in their own conversation and never bothered with me. Another car went by and I felt reassured.

While I was walking back up the hill towards where I had previously fallen, another car came up from behind and stopped right alongside me before turning towards a private drive on the opposite side of the road. I carried on walking. I heard a female voice which I recognised. It was Denise saying goodnight to her boyfriend.

They must have had a really good look at me, being less than four feet away when the car had stopped beside me. I was wearing natural coloured glossy tights which could be seen above my boots and below my skirt, which finished just above the knee.

This was my closest contact yet and again no one seemed to bother. I must have passed for a woman without a second thought.

Again I didn’t dress for a while, but the desire remains so strong. As I’ve got older I have had to go up a dress size. My favourite at the moment is a plain little black number which I bought in Littlewoods. It hangs above the knee and is tailored from the bust.

Yesterday I decided it was time to see if I could still get into into it. I had bought a lot of new accessories while on holiday in Majorca in the summer. New rings and clips, an ‘L’-for-Linda chain, a new watch as my old one had given up and a lovely Moschino shoulder bag with a leather and chain strap. I had also bought some new fashionable ankle strap court shoes from BHS which I wanted to try.

Yes the dress still does fit me. Its a bit tighter that I would like (what woman doesn’t think that), but still very much wearable.

So here goes for another night out. Having read the good advice on the Transformation web site, I wanted to go out earlier and be seen more. It took a while to get ready. As I said before, I’m still not very good at makeup, and if more people are to see me I want to look my best.

Under the dress I first put on my Wonderbra knickers into which I always put a pantie liner. After that comes a lovely M&S underwired body which is really comfortable. It doesn’t open at the crotch, which makes it difficult to go to the toilet, as I have to get virtually undressed. It’s not too bad if I’m wearing a dress with a long back zip, but most inconvenient if I’m in a skirt and top!

Then come the 60 denier tights I mentioned before (it’s still winter) followed a lovely little full slip which I’ve had for years, but it is very pretty and the right length to go under the dress. All in black, of course.

At that stage came the makeup, followed by the dress and the wig. Its time I bought a new wig. I’ve been looking at the Transformation catalogue and quite fancy a Selina in medium brown. Must make a point of visiting Bury Old Road again!

I topped off my ‘Classic Woman’ jacket with a nylon scarf and a fashionable little round hat from M&S.

After all this it was later than planned when I was ready to go out. I’ve recently had new windows and doors fitted, so I had to transfer the correct key to my ‘Linda’ keyring. I set out but had only gone a few yards before I realised that the new ankle strap shoes with 4 inch heels were not for walking in yet. I’ll have to wear them around the house for a while.

Back home I decided upon Plan B, which was to get out my knee length boots. This done, and after renewing my lipstick and a few shots of my new ‘Woman’ perfume which I had also bought in Majorca, out I went again. Round the upper part of the block and down towards the main road. The boots were not quite so comfortable as I remembered them, but probably because it had been a long time since I had worn heels.

I got down to the main road and heard male voices. Two young lads were across at the bus stop. I realised that as I was later than I intended they must be waiting for the last bus back to the next village.

As I approached I heard a wolf whistle! For a second I thought I had been read. Then I heard two more wolf whistles. There were no jeers or cat calls. This was too good to be true. I was genuinely being wolf whistled! Like any other woman, I held by head high and walked on. I had enjoyed the experience. I hope it happens again!

A couple of cars passed as I walked on, then the last bus. I walked further than I had ever walked before while dressed. I was enjoying myself. But soon I realised I was tired and decided to turn back. I have a plan for very long walk, but that will have to wait.

I got back to the main road and headed for home. More cars passed without incident and I was happy. I was a little apprehensive as I approached the bus stop, but the boys were not there. They must have gone home on the last bus as I had surmised. I wonder if they looked out for me as the bus drove by?

As I started to cross the road back to our estate I heard another car coming. I decided I didn’t want to wait to let it pass so I crossed. Just as I got to exactly the same place as I had heard the first wolf whistle, the car passed. After (only a split second) it had passed there was a toot on the horn!

Three wolf whistles and a horn toot! This was my lucky night! The lads in the car must have been on their way back from the pub and had seen a bird! The short dress and boots had definitely done their job!

I walked back up the hill to the house and reflected on a wonderful evening out. Obviously I’m still not too old to excite the male when properly dressed and looking good! The wolf whistles and the toot from the boys in the car helped me to realise what it is really like to be a woman!

Lots of love

Linda XX

St Paul said that there abide faith, hope and charity - but I have more hope than faith in the charity shop as a source for transvestites' clothing...

The Charity Shop

In Heaven, no doubt, charity shops are Aladdin's caves for transvestites. This world, alas, is a more cruel place. Buyer beware: rather than Aladdin's cave, here, charity shops are all too often little shops of horror. I think that there are three main reasons for people giving clothes to charity shops - they're worn out, they no longer fit or they were a mistake from the start. To take the last of those first - if it looked ghastly on the woman who originally owned it, it will probably look even worse on you. On the whole, transvestites need to take more care over what they wear than women do. I, for one, am not crossdressing to wear someone else's discarded horrors.

A quick glance with a critical eye will be enough to assess the ghastliness of a lot of clothes. Sometimes, though it's necessary to try the clothes on to see how awful they are. There are garments which seem fine in theory but in practice, just don't work. There are clothes which could be splendid, but they're cut so that they don't hang right on a human body. If they hang badly on a woman, they're likely to hang a whole lot worse on you. The cut of clothes can offend a lot more than the eye. I have a friend who picked up a teddy from a charity shop. Exceptionally, it was large enough for a transvestite's body - and it was certainly very pretty. The snag appeared when putting it on for the first time. It was decorated with piping which cut into the flesh in some extremely sensitive places. The original owner had probably found it too painful to wear, but I think it must have been even worse for my friend!

Acceptable

Less painful, but still a pain, are problems around washing and ironing. There are clothes which are a lot of work to keep in half way acceptable shape. There's no reason why transvestites shouldn't iron their clothes - all the same, if someone took a garment to a charity shop because it was too much trouble to iron, it probably really is too much trouble to iron. I've given clothes to charity shops for this reason - I'm sure that a lot of women have done the same. Other pains include hand-wash only - how good are you at hand washing? Worse are problems around garments not being colour fast. I once bought a red skirt with an elasticated waistband from a charity shop. Its original owner had removed the washing instructions, so I decided (as I thought) to play safe. I hand washed it, with a few other things, in tepid water. The skirt came out fine. Everything else emerged mottled with pink. It ruined some expensive undies. More extreme than hand-wash only is dry clean only. Charity shop items in that category generally cost more to clean than to buy. Something which looked to be a real bargain turns out a bit expensive. Washing and ironing are compounded by the fact that a lot of charity shop clothes are without manufacturers' labels. Some of these may be home made, but in others one came to see where the labels have been ripped off. Why anyone should do this I do not know, but it leaves care of the garment as a lottery in which there are only booby prizes. Wrong guessing can ruin not only the clothes without labels, but other things in the same wash. Instructions for washing and ironing are not the only label to be snipped out. Size labelling can also be missing. That allows three possibilities - carry a tape measure, try the garments on, or guess. Someone did once advise me to carry a tape measure as a matter of course. I've never done so, and don't know anyone who has. Even the friend who gave me the advice (a transvestite) doesn't do it. Trying clothes on would be the ideal - but it takes an unusually bold transvestite to do so except in such safe outlets as Transformation. Not having attempted it, my guess is that a trannie wishing to try on women's clothing in a charity shop would meet with, at best, a frosty reception. It could well be worse than frosty. In fact, 'frosty' is an accurate word for the attitude of many assistants in charity shops towards men who bring women's clothes to the counter, let alone towards any male who wished to try them on!

Guessing

Size labelling brings us to the size of the original owner. An important point on this is that there's an overlap between the issues of clothes being ghastly and their no longer fitting the original owner. I married a woman who wore size 10 clothes. I saw her through the traumas of going up to size 12, then size 14, and on to size 16. She was concerned not only at her increasing girth, as such, but also by the fact that, with each increase in size, it became harder to find nice clothes. The problem for us, here, is that not only does the male body tend to be larger than the female one, but it is differently proportioned. Men generally have thick waists, which increases their skirt size several notches. Probably worse, they also tend to have broad shoulders, which can have a dramatic effect on blouse and dress sizes. Towards the end of our marriage, my wife was finding it difficult (at size 16) to find clothes she liked in ordinary dress shops and department stores. The task would be much more difficult for a transvestite who is more likely to need sizes up in the 20s. Someone I know, who doesn't seem an unusual size for a man - and certainly isn't fat - says that he takes a size 22. If flattering garments in that size are difficult to find in shops selling new clothes, they will be very much more so in a charity shop. This brings us to the reason why clothes no longer fit women - and are given to charity shops. Generally, it has to do with the process through which my wife went. Women tend to grow larger as they grow older - acquiring matronly figures. The result is that there are plenty of size 10 and size 12 clothes in charity shops. The proportion of transvestites who can squeeze into these must be as tiny as their waists are. In fact, probably the most frustrating thing about charity shops is that there are some lovely clothes going very cheaply in size 8 or 10. I've seen some really beautiful leather skirts available for a couple of pounds. Alas, all of them have been designed for anorexic teenage girls. The most beautiful leather skirt I ever saw anywhere was in this category. It combined black and wine coloured leather sewn to form an applique pattern. It was in a Leyton charity shop. I don't know why I tortured myself by giving it a second glance, but I went so far as to gauge the size. It was hard to believe an adult human being could have a waist as small as that. Much the same applied to a skirt of electric blue satin with a tulip hem. This wonderful creation was sighted in a Southend- on-Sea charity shop. I still think about that skirt. Even if I could have returned to my early teenage dimensions, I doubt if it would have been possible to squeeze into the tiny waistband. It would have been better if I'd never seen it. The likes of that skirt can offer me nothing but heartache.

Bargain

It comes as a relief to leave the subject of beautiful clothes much too small to wear, and consider the third reason people give things to charity shops. This is because they're worn out. Clothes of this kind can be found on the bargain rails - cheap even by charity shop standards. Alas, unless you're good with a needle and thread, you are unlikely to rescue anything useful in this category. Indeed, even if you can sew, it isn't worth trying to fix anything worse than unstitched seams. When the fabric of the garment starts to give out, there's not much to be done apart from ripping it up to use as dusters. That said, perhaps the most intriguing thing I've ever seen in a charity shop came into the worn out category. I didn't buy it - the item wasn't worth having - but it did set me wondering. It was a red suspender belt which had been repaired repeatedly with large and clumsy stitches. A woman who sewed that badly would surely not bother to sew at all. Women don't usually repair their lingerie, in any case. Suspender belts continue to be worn in this age of tights because they are sexy - the much repaired one had long since lost its last trace of sexiness. The original owner was almost certainly a transvestite - but why had the worn out suspender belt gone to a charity shop instead of in the bin (where it belonged)? I sensed that there was a story behind it - and I still wonder about it. Perhaps the best treasures to be found in charity shops are such intriguing little hints of other people's lives. I've donated several items to charity shops which, I'd like to think, may have set someone wondering about the original owner. These have included garments carrying Transformation labels - at the end of their useful lives.

I have found one (and only one) useful garment - repaired by its original owner after much wear - on the bargain rail of a charity shop. It was a little pink blouse with re-sewn seams under the armpits. I bought it for 50p, expecting the seams to go again very shortly. Many wearings later, the seams are still holding - and the blouse has proved itself a genuine bargain. I've wondered about that original owner. She may have been an exceptionally tubby woman - overly fleshy arms, perhaps. Alternatively, the blouse may have formerly belonged to an other transvestite. The strain on the armpits could be the result of broad shoulders (a major problem in clothes made for women placed on a male body). The restitching of the seams, while not as clumsy as that of the red suspender belt, does not exhibit much delicacy. That may be another sign of a tranny former owner. To be fair to charity shops, I ought to mention another excellent buy - albeit one that few trannies could have worn - a genuine girl's blazer. Can a schoolgirl be properly outfitted without a blazer? This was - and is - a treasure, not least because the blazer is an item of school uniform not available from such outlets as Transformation. Buying a blazer from a school outfitter is not a transaction I would care to make. They would surely wonder why my 'daughter' hadn't come with me to try on her new blazer. And then, perhaps... "What size is she, sir?" "Oh, about my size..." Really, I'd rather not even think about that. But here was a blazer that would be easy to buy. It seemed natural enough that I would snap up a charity shop bargain while it was available, rather than risk losing it by waiting to return with my 'daughter' at some future time. The only question was whether it would fit me...

Growing

As school blazers go, it was a fairly large size. The previous owner had probaby finished with it on leaving school, rather than growing out of it and being bought a larger one. I looked for a size label. There wasn't one, although all of the other labelling was intact. I felt doubtful - could I squeeze into even a large school blazer? As a teenager I'd worn an elder sister's blazer sometimes - but that was a long time before. The blazer was cheap for what it was, but it wasn't free. Trying on the blazer in the shop was out of the question. I am generally fairly open about my transvestism, but there are limits. A trannie going for schoolgirl items is sure to raise issues around paedophilia in the minds of a lot of people. It may be nonsense - there is no link that I can see between wishing to dress as a schoolgirl and wishing to abuse children - but that would probably not reduce the trouble which would ensue. After dithering for a little while, I bought the blazer, took it home and tried it on. To my great pleasure, it fitted. It was a very snug fit when buttoned, but I was able to wear it. Few transvestites, however, would have been so lucky. I am small by male standards, and - most important - have very narrow shoulders. My last girlfriend, in fact, had wider shoulders than me. Turning from the best to the most surprising transaction, it arose in the purchase of a matching camisole and French knicker set. This was another purchase over which I dithered before making the transaction. It was very pretty - but would it fit? There was no size label and I had to guess. My feeling was that the knickers would be OK, but the camisole could be too small even for me. (As it turned out, this guesswork was about right). Eventually, I decided that the camisole didn't matter because the French knickers were worth at least the £3 asking price. On that basis, I took the lingerie set to the counter. The lady looked at it, picked up a pen, crossed out the £3 and wrote £2 instead. And that was what she charged me - but why? I've often wondered about that... Possibly the lingerie set had been priced by a rival whose prices she enjoyed altering. I would like to believe that she thought transvestites should be encouraged to wear frilly undies, and liked to sell them as cheaply as possible if a trannie was buying. I've tried to convince myself of that explanation - but haven't yet succeeded!

I have made a few really good buys in charity shops - but has the charity shopping, overall, been worthwhile? I doubt it. I am reminded of people with gambling habits. Speak to any gambler and you'll be told that he or she (usually he) has made an overall profit from betting. If this was true, Ladbrooks, Coral and all the rest would have gone bankrupt. Instead, they appear to be doing very nicely. The punters misperception is surely a matter of selective memory. Occasions So it is with charity shopping. I remember a few real bargains. How could I forget them? The things are still in my wardrobe. What I rarely do is to balance these against a large number of mistakes. More - what have I done with these mistakes? For the most part, they've gone back to a charity shop. This is a process which increases the size of the charity shop haystacks of the unwearable which obscure the needles of occasional real bargains. If I added up the total of my charity shop spending, and divided it by the wearable clothes with which I emerged, I'm sure that my bargains would prove rather expensive. If I added on the cost of the undies ruined by dye from the red charity shop skirt... Well - I'm sure you get the picture. There's no such thing as a free frock. You'll be lucky if you even find a cheap one that's any good. Normally, a charity shop habit is not quite as expensive as a gambling one, although a wash day disaster can leave it so. However, the truth is that almost all of my wearable girlish clothing was bought new. Alas, in this cruel world, charity shops are very far from Aladdin's caves for transvestites...

We can picture in our mind the typical drawing-room scene. The upright father in his dark suit, the timid-looking mother at her writing desk, the elder son in his Army uniform, the young girl in her lace-trimmed pinafore, and finally the maid in her starched apron and cap, all posed rigidly for the camera.

But imagine, if you would, that the timid looking mother is really in charge of the family, and that beneath that frilly blouse and cameo broach lies the heart of a true dominatrix.

Her husband sits so erectly in his chair because of the tightly-laced female corset which he has been forced to wear for years and years.

The young girl is, in fact, a 14 years old boy, put into pinafores to curb his early signs of waywardness and rough manners. Underneath, he has to wear his corset day and night to train his waist to become as tiny as possible.

The elder son, also in a lace-trimmed corset under his khaki uniform, has only enlisted to stop his fiancee dressing him up and treating him like a maid.

And the maid herself, she's, of course, a boy as well. A young nephew who came to stay when his mother died, and found himself forced into female domestic service.

Far fetched? Perhaps, but only because such a number of males dominated into corsets, pinafores and maids' uniforms were unlikely to be all in one household. However they did exist, individually, all around London and the rest of the country, and most likely every other country in Europe.

The evidence is presented in a recently published collection "Confidential Correspondence on Cross-Dressing 1911- 1915", edited by Peter Farrer. It makes fascinating reading.

For example, let's start with the young recruit. You may have heard of British men who failed to enlist during the First World War being handed white feathers by women in the street as a sign of cowardice. But some women went very much further, as a letter printed in a newspaper in June 1915 pointed out.

This was from a wife of a 24 years old man who had thought twice about volunteering for the trenches. She and some friends had formed their own corps, with the women all dressed in khaki and the men as maids...

"Most of us have husbands who will not join the forces, and we have compelled them under persuasion and application of the birch to don female attire and do all the housework."

"We hold meetings in each other's houses. Our husbands have to wait on us and call us "Sir", and we always say "Miss" to them. I expect they feel awfully foolish when they have to get matches and light our cigarettes and dust around the room with us looking on."

"We sometimes take them on our knees, and one poor boy had the humiliation of being made to stand in a corner. This is exactly what wants doing with those who won't enlist. We have made them feel ashamed of themselves."

"The boys have been dressed like this for four months now, each one being made to swear in front us all that he would for the rest of his days wear the petticoats."

To some of these men, such feminised punishment may have come as a shock. To others, it might almost have been second nature. For the collection, mainly taken from the newspaper New Fun, has many examples of teenage boys being persuaded to dress as girls.

One letter is from a man whose mother insisted he wore white pinafores from the age of 14 to keep himself neat and tidy. To begin with, he shared his sister's, but over the coming two years began to collect a drawer-full of his own.

"Lady friends of my mother expressed great admiration for the plan, and several of them, to my disgust, sent me pinafores for Christmas presents. These were carefully chosen for me when the donors came to call, and I had to appear wearing their presents and was made to thank them and say how pretty I thought the pinnies."

Others who came across women feminising their sons were less supportive. One 1915 letter is from the wife of a "big strong man" whose son is fighting in France. She claims to detest effeminate men and cites one example she recently came across.

She had been invited out for tea with a friend, and to her horror had found her hostess's son pencilled, painted, powdered and dressed as a girl.

"Several ladies present gushed over him, and his adoring mother proudly produced a tape in order that his admirers might measure his pinched in the waist, which proved to be 16 inches.

"I was disgusted with remarks such as 'Doesn't he make a lovely girl?' 'His corsets squeeze him beautifully', or 'Isn't his waist delightfully pinched in?'. Needless to add that I was glad to go home".

Some boys learnt to love the feeling of constriction and the slim waist which tight corseting brought. There are a number of letters from men who are proud of their figures, amongst them a young draper's assistant who had been in the trenches himself fighting for King and country.

"I've have read some of the remarks about that effeminate men is a kind of weakness, but from experience, there are men who have that fascination fighting at the front now (I myself have done a bit, but am home again and expect to go back shortly) so that shows that all are not weak," he writes

Others had hated the experience of being feminised and never wanted to return to girlish clothes once they had escaped them. A letter printed in the summer of 1915 tells of the experiences four years before of a young man who went to stay with his aunt while his widowed father was abroad.

The aunt hadn't really wanted him but decided that if he was going to take up space he might as well work for it. The maid was dismissed and the nephew took her place.

At first, this sounds like classic trannie fiction, but then comes the ring of truth:

"I must say that a small waist and pretty lingerie has quite a fascination for me when on a girl, but I have not the slightest desire to go back again to my female attire."

Surely, for a real trannie, such thoughts would be sacrilege.

There is undoubtedly some fantasy about. A number of the letters do seem too much like wishful thinking to the more cynical reader of the 1990s. One, for example, concerns a young man who has to pretend to his dying father that he is the daughter that never was.

But even these only serve to underline that much about being a transvestite hasn't changed over the last eighty years. There are reports from trannies who chance going out dressed, and pleas from others for advice on how to go about buying women's clothes. In those days, it must have taken quite a nerve to have gone to a dressmaker.

There are over 200 letters reproduced in the collection, and Peter Farrer has indexed them under subject headings, dates and newspapers for ready reference. He's done a magnificent job on bringing to life a transvestite world that history tried to ignore.

"Confidential Correspondence on Cross-Dressing 1911-1915" is available priced £7.50 (plus £1 p&p) from bookshops or direct from Karn Publications Garston, 63 Salisbury Road, Garston, Liverpool L19 OPH.

I had asked a friend why she enjoyed dressing as a female nurse. She was growing enthusiastic. What she went on to say about male patients being equipped with their own thermometers is, perhaps, best not repeated in its entirety.

I’m not sure whether my friend had got under a starched uniform, exactly – but he’d certainly got into one. He has a woman friend in the nursing profession who had presented him with a genuine nurse’s dress. I think it was a pattern which had been replaced by newer uniforms. (Certainly they do change the style of nursing uniforms from time to time, as I expect most of us have noticed). It was a little old fashioned but that did not detract from its charms. It was certainly an item a lot of transvestites would treasure.

It must be admitted, through, that the nurse’s outfit is almost certainly not the most popular uniform with transvestites. Clearly, that position must belong to either the schoolgirl uniform or the maid’s. Year after year these two trannie stalwarts are available in the Transformation catalogue and shops. An awful lot of them must have been sold.

Nurses lag somewhere behind, no doubt, but there’s obviously a substantial interest in them. In Uniform Special – TMC’s first magazine devoted to the subject – they were well represented. The cover promised Virgin School girls, Naughty Nurses, Sexy Maids and that is what it provided. All three appear in the photographs – and these are the only three uniforms treated in the fiction.

There was one story about a trannie slipping into each of them.

If nurse’s uniforms are not the most readily available from specifically transvestite suppliers, my experience suggests that they are at least easily found in sex shops. I exchanged some merchandise for a credit note in a branch of a large sex shop chain. What I wanted at the time was not a nurse’s uniform, but a maid’s one – which should have been easy enough. (It certainly would have been easy had I been dealing with Transformation!) However, each time I called at the shop, the maid’s uniform had not yet arrived. I was repeatedly offered the nurse’s outfit, but eventually (giving up on the maid) settled for some lingerie. The choice of lingerie I was offered made it clear that I wasn’t being fobbed off with hard to sell items. I think the sex shop really did sell plenty of their nurse outfits.

However, what my friend said of nurse’s seeming stainless – and the reference to starch – goes some way to show why a sex shop nurse’s outfit would not do for me. (I’d guess that the same goes for many other transvestites with an interest in playing the nurse). The overly-revealing styles, and the wet look or satin fabrics, while attractive in themselves, fly in the face of what draws me to nursing fantasies. Wanting to dress as a nurse is one thing, wanting to dress as a whore pretending to be a nurse is another matter entirely.

It would be interesting to know who buys sex shop nurse’s outfits. While some surely do go to transvestites, my guess is that most are bought by real girls for professional purposes – although the profession in question is surely not nursing. Such garments might, perhaps, be suitable for administering enemas – which are, I understand, very popular with some. Our local free paper certainly carries adverts for such services.

There should, in any case, be no real need to go to a sex shop for a nurse’s uniform. The real thing ought not to be impossible to find. After a baby abduction case last year, the tabloid papers highlighted how easy it was to buy nursing uniforms. If they’ll sell them to transvestites, that is.

There is also the possibility that one may be given a uniform by a nurse. If it happened to my friend, it can surely happen to others. Most people, I suppose, know at least one nurse. Two of my sisters became nurses, not that I’d ask either of them for a spare uniform… or, come to think of it, maybe I should!

Whether or not we care to take the necessary steps towards laying our hands on them, there can be little doubt that genuine nurse’s uniforms are more easily available than the real thing is for either transvestites, maids or school girls. Genuine uniformed maids are beyond my experience.

Possibly, one might find a similar uniform intended for a waitress. However, real waitresses uniforms may not be quite what the average transvestite maid had in mind.

The tabard affected by most hotel chambermaids is of even less interest to the transvestite male, I feel sure..

If anything the real thing is even less obtainable for transvestite school girls. There are plenty of school girls about, and genuine school uniforms are, of course, on sale in every town in the country. The real problem is of size. For obvious reasons, the uniforms are mostly in small sizes.

Most transvestites are large by the standards of adult women, let alone by those of young girls. I’m lucky enough to fit into a size 14, but I know trannies (not enormous by male standards) who need dress sizes in 20’s. Some nurses, on the other hand, are pretty big.

There are large nurses and, of course, male nurses – but there remains something very feminine about being a nurse. A character in a story called “TV Nurse” certainly sees things that way.

“I wish I had a proper nurse to work with,” Anne said.

“What do you mean?” demanded Madge. “John is a proper nurse”

“Go on, men don’t make good nurses. They just get the good jobs because they are men”.

John was standing half-amused by this chat.

“That’s not true,” Madge said. “I bet John would do just as well as a girl”.

“Huh! I bet he couldn’t even put a proper nurse’s uniform on.”

Well, I’m sure we can all guess where the story is heading (And wouldn’t you like to be in John’s shoes? – or at least in the pair he will soon be wearing). However, several points of interest arise in this passage, apart from the idea that men don’t make proper nurses. One is the idea that a proper nurse’s uniform is obviously considered to be a female one. Less obvious is the way Madge defends John: I bet John would do just as well as a girl. The conversation has slipped, with no one apparently noticing, from how well John does as a nurse to how well he would do as a girl.

The two are obviously not the same, but I wonder how many readers noticed the slide in meaning on a first reading.

TV Nurse was included in TVs in Uniform, TMC’s second venture into uniform. In the magazine, maids and school girls outnumber the nurses in the photographs, but (as in Uniform Special) there is a nurse story. Obviously, the editors thought you wanted to read more about transvestite nurses, and they were probably right.

The femininity of the nurse is confirmed by the origins of the word. The original sense is of the wet nurse – and who but a woman is capable of breast feeding? The word comes from the same root as nourish. In Middle English, the language of Chaucer, the word for nurse is norice – which sounds very much like a compromise between nursing and nourishment.

If the nurse is literally a substitute mother – something of the same also applies to the medical nurse. When we are ill as children, who makes our beds, brings us medicine, takes our temperature…? Clearly, a mother’s tasks include a quantity of medical nursing. More, ill in hospital, helpless and vulnerable, there is a sense of return to childhood. Inevitably, nurses appear as mother figures, even if they are younger than their patients (as they often are).

Nurses, however, have not always seemed so maternal. To many Victorians they appeared little better than prostitutes or actresses (much the same thing, most would have said). When nurses went to war (Florence Nightingale and all that) they were regarded as indistinguishable from the other camp followers.

Possibly this had something to do with their work calling upon them to handle men’s private parts – or maybe it was merely their unchaperoned condition. Almost certainly, it is yet another example of the narrow mindedness of too many of Queen Victoria’s subjects.

If a trace of the prostitute image remains, it would act as a turn off for few of us. Many transvestites, of course, enjoy dressing as whores. Perhaps trannie whores outnumber transvestite nurses.

Although the nurses we know today seem so prim and proper (so pure, so stainless) – they also have a certain reputation as ravers. Air hostesses have a similar reputation. Why don’t I know any transvestites who dress as air hostesses? (I’d love an air hostess uniform!) Possibly, contact with human frailty has to do with their being less inhibited than most women, but who knows? Certainly, a lot of people are frightened of flying – as well as frightened by hospitals.

One reason people are frightened of hospitals is surely that a lot of people die there. I am reminded of the great increase in sexual promiscuity in the Second World War. (And we shouldn’t forget, here, fantasies about wounded fighter pilots and their nurses!). There is a curious connection between death and sexuality – and also between fear of death and sexuality. That subject, however, needs a whole book to do it justice.

Turning from death to childhood, somewhere here we are almost certain to be reminded of children’s games of doctors and nurses. These not only represent the first step towards sexual experimentation for many people – but also form a combined fantasy for both genders. As we shall see, women have their own nurse fantasies.

If we return to Florence Nightingale and the origins of modern nursing, the profession seems not only feminine but representing femininity at its best. During the Crimean War the boys mutilated one another while the girls (as represented by Florence Nightingale’s nurses) did what they could to patch them up. Given the choice of these gender roles, which of us would prefer the male?

Indeed, the nurse as fantasy (which is, of course, what we are considering with transvestite nurses) is curiously feminine. Mills and Boon – surely exclusively female fantasy – treat doctor and nurse stories as a sub genre in their own right. Presumably, the readers identify with the nurses rather than the doctors. Mills and Boon certainly do not treat maids or school girls in the same way. Perhaps transvestite nurses represent one of our closest approximations to genuinely female fantasy.

When we come to consider fantasy, a great deal of it has to do with submission and domination. Clearly, this is true of both the ubiquitous maid and the schoolgirl. The maid is there to do the bidding of her master or mistress. The schoolgirl must obey the teachers, and abide by the school rules – otherwise it’s the classic sub/dom situation with the head mistress cast in the role of the dom, a painful situation (but one which many TV’s enjoy).

With nurses things are less clear cut. Certainly, in the doctor and nurse scenario so beloved of Mills and Boon and their readers the nurse is in a subservient position. The doctor is clearly in a position elevated above the nurse. The dominance, however, is more subtle than in either the maid or the schoolgirl fantasies. The doctor may give the nurse orders – but has no obvious disciplinary measures to hand should the orders not be properly carried out.

A more classically dominant figure in nurse fantasies is the matron. (None of the worst for being a dominatrix, perhaps). Hospital administration has changed a great deal in recent years – but we are surely all familiar with the fearsome matron as played by such actresses as Hattie Jacques in the old comedy films. (The likes of Carry on Nurse and all the other doctor films.) According to my sisters who trained as nurses, such awe-inspiring matrons really existed.

Mixed in with the submissiveness of the role, however, the nurse can also dominate. She can give orders to the patients as surely as the doctor (or matron) can give her orders. And what orders she can give!

…Off with your clothes now… come on, you can’t leave those underpants on…

… Time for your injection…. just bend over now…

… Now, now, be brave… it may hurt just a little bit…

Indeed, bending over for the nurse to give one an injection in the bum (I mean an intermuscular injection, of course) is almost certain to remind one of bending over for the headmistress’s cane. The injection may be over more quickly, but there are those who would prefer the cane.

A spanking, if not the cane, is surely available from the nurse’s cousin, the nanny. Strict Nanny Stern appears in more than one TMC publication, wearing something indistinguishable from a nurse’s uniform. (Plenty of starch!).

The adult baby theme, closely connected with the nanny figure, leads us back towards a sense of return to childhood which illness can bring. The nurse’s patients and the nanny’s charges have much in common. Nor should we forget, somewhere between the nanny and the nurse, is the school matron – leading us back in the direction of schoolgirl fantasies.

Nannies and school matrons aside, the nurse is someone with whom to be reckoned with in her own right, Injections, enemas (I’ve already mentioned them as being popular with some) – the nurse certainly has the power to do some remarkable things to her patients. her thermometer won’t necessarily end up in your mouth, either.

Supremely, feminine, simultaneously submissive and dominant, is it any wonder that transvestites with a little imagination feel the urge to slip into the nurse’s starched uniform? So pure, so stainless…. Isn’t that a perfect description of me? Anyone who thinks it isn’t had better watch themselves when I make my rounds tonight! It can be a lot of fun…

Do you remember the first time you dressed as a girl? Jennifer Wilson, now a 55 years old London solicitor, looks back on her halcyon days at school: Public school in the 1950's was aimed at toughening up the "mummy's little darlings" to become the leaders of tomorrow. It was a regime of stark dormitories, cold baths, early morning runs, corporal punishments, and supposedly for pleasure, boxing and rugby. A friend of mine, Charles, is one of the most convincing cross dressers I have ever seen. When dressed as Charlene, he transforms himself from a good looking black guy into a ravishing, slender woman, with dusky looks and a curvy figure. For me, all this was terrifying. I was a small, red headed kid in glasses who wasn't cut out for physical activity like many of the other boys. My mother thought I was 'artistic', but my father looked on me as too sissy. Public school he believed would be the making of me. And so it was, but not in the way he thought! I was a transvestite even before I went to the school in that I would dream of being dressed up, and would occasionally try on my mother's petticoats during furtive sessions in the bathroom. But I never thought I would ever get the chance of acting like a girl. Thanks to the school, I did. It was in the summer of 1953, which is perhaps why I remember the actual date so well. The Queen had taken the throne, Hilary had taken Everest, and I had taken the lead role in the school play - as Alice in Wonderland. Looking back it seems a strange choice for a boy's school, but the music master had written songs to go with it so perhaps it was all about indulging his little fantasy. I'm sure nobody knew it was also indulging mine. I was 14 at the time, but my voice hadn't broken and I was lead boy soprano in the school choir. I was small, as I say, and I suppose was the obvious choice to play Alice, but I still couldn't believe my luck when I was asked, and really I still can't. Not only being allowed to dress as a girl, but forced to, isn't that every transvestite's dream? It was certainly mine, and, I have to confess, still is. I can even now remember the fast beating of my heart at the very first rehearsal. I was still in normal clothes of course, but it was the thrill of being dressed as Alice. As the weeks went on, it got curiouser and curiouser. I had to write to my mother and ask her if she would be willing to provide my costume. The school secretary gave me the list of clothing I would require, which I included with the letter after reading it over and over again - white headband, white pinafore, candy striped dress, white petticoat and long white socks. I could wear my plimsoll shoes, and the school would provide me with a long blonde wig.

My mother treated all as a bit of a joke, but I think my father was furious with the school about it. When I went home for half-term, and my unforgettable first fitting, he just stayed out of the way. We had two dress rehearsals before the real thing, and each time I was helped into my frock and pinafore I felt a tremendous exciting surge run through me. But it was only on the night when itself when I also got to wear the wig and the stage lipstick, eyeliner and rouge that I got the most amazing experience of my life. I cannot really describe my feelings of stepping onto the stage in front of all those people as Alice. How proud I felt of myself as I skipped and sang, laughed and cried, a girl for all to see. And how sad I was when I took my final curtsey to the polite clapping, blissfully aware that the audience hadn't enjoyed it anywhere near as much as I had! Afterwards the cast was treated to tea with their parents, with chocolate cake we never saw any other time of the school year, iced buns and ginger beer. But the best bit for me that we were still in costume; Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, with their cushions up their jumpers; the dormouse and the white rabbit with whiskers on their cheeks: and me, in the starched pinafore and sweet little dress my mother had made specially for me.

My Mother was terribly sweet about it, but I think she was worried inside about my enthusiasm. The play was over, but I was still acting as Alice. I didn't want to stop being the little girl. Eventually I had to go and get changed, and then a feeling of great embarrassment came over me. I knew I had pushed it too far, I had let down my guard, and the pangs of guilt stayed with me throughout the summer holidays I never got the chance to do it again. My voice broke soon after and my days in the choir were gone. I don't know if my father had said something to the school or not, but for some reason I was never chosen to play a girl again. I was in two other plays and a pageant, but each time I had to play male parts while other boys, who didn't appreciate it, were forced into skirts. God, how I envied them! Unfortunately I also couldn't ever be Alice again. I tried in a roundabout way, to find out what happened to my costume but I think my Mother threw it away. I remember being invited to a fancy dress party the following year and suggesting, in a joking manner, about going as Alice. My mother just ignored it. "Why don't you go as a cowboy", she said, and I did. The End

WHY TRANSFORMATION IS SO DIFFERENT?

Since 1984 Transformation has spawned many competitors so now the internet is teeming with companies supplying products to the transgender free dowload strike 2community and most are pretty much the same selling inferior Chinese made silicone breasts, large size women's clothing, shoes etc, and if that is all you want then Transformation is not for you. For 31 years, Transformation has operated as a not-for-profit specialist supplier. Funded by our transsexual founders supermarket millionaire husband, literally millions have been invested in research and product development so we can offer superior products designed and produced to offer the most convincing male to female transformation, whether you just want to instantly crossdress, develop your own female breasts or want to undergo a permanent transition. We are the only specialist supplier offering a cutting-edge range of female hormones, produced by Switzerland's leading endocrinologist. We worked with a German specialist to develop a superior silicone breast using medical grade 'siloxane' which replicates the feel, weight, movement and even reactive nipples that are so realistic that the UK's National Health Service (NHS) purchase them from us for post mastectomy patients. In our own manufacturing facility we produce unique latex realistic vagina panties. These range from our original VEE G-String, to our best selling WEE VEE which allows you not only look like a woman when naked but to sit and pee like one. The time consuming multiple dipping process, hand finishing even down to painting the internal vagina which is authentic having labia lips, clitoris etc. You can choose to have pubic hair for no extra cost. We NEVER rent, sell or divulge your contact details to anyone else Transformation is also the only company that offers a 100% guarantee on EVERY single product we supply. If you are unhappy with any product you receive simply return it for a full refund Free advice is always available from our customer service girls between 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday (UK time) We are the leading experts because Stephanie, our transsexual founder underwent a sex-change operation 35 years ago so can give you the benefits of her personal experience and then add in the world's leading endocrinologist (hormone expert) and you have a formidable bank of specialist knowledge to draw on and it's all for free We view our customers as valued members of the Transformation family, we will always ensure you get the very best products at the lowest possible prices Thank you for joining the circle of trust that exemplifies the spirit of Transformation Transformation Unique not-for-profit crossdressing experts for 31 years 1984 - 2015

MALE-TO-FEMALE TRANSFORMATION

EXCLUSIVE FEMINISING HORMONE TREATMENTS

When you commence hormone treatment you start on a journey that will take you to the part of the feminine spectrum you desire be it breast enhancement, nipple augmentation or a full transition to a female hourglass figure with softer skin and the removal of male facial and body hair. A minority will wish to progress all the way and undergo gender reassignment which involves the removal of the penis and testes and the creation of a vagina whilst the majority want to feminise their body to a greater or lesser extent. It is important to note that female hormones have a profound positive effect on self-esteem and bring an inner peace as body and brain become more aligned. Before puberty, apart from genitalia there is very little difference between the genders. Genetic females at puberty respond to the surge in female hormones by developing breasts, broadening of thighs and a general softening and rounding resulting in the classical hourglass shape and the onset of periods. Males undergo profound changes at puberty when the release of testosterone and other androgens cause the voice to deepen, development of stronger muscles and growth of male pattern facial and body hair. At this stage a male is capable of penile erections and sperm production. Introducing estrogen and associated endocrine female hormones into the body (also know as oestrogen) to a post-puberty male allow them to react with cells that contain specific receptors and institute the feminisation process. It is vital to lower your levels of androgens (male hormones) to facilitate the process. Every individual reacts differently to feminising hormones just as genetic females do, some grow small breasts some large in a process that can take anything up to 4 years to complete so patience and dedication in continuing feminizing hormone therapy is essential. We offer male-to-female transforming hormones in a variety of strengths and delivery options, so that they are both affordable, effective and safe no matter what your age or financial position. The stronger the hormone, the faster development and unfortunately the higher the price but the one golden rule is that no feminising hormone will be effective unless you take an androgen suppressant (anti-androgen) alongside it. Doctor Temperli is a leading endocrinologist (hormone specialist) and advises centres of excellence re hormone therapy and it is he who heads up our research & development developing ever more efficient male-to-female hormones delivery systems. Although estrogen is the primary female hormone we do incorporate various forms of estradiol including micronized estdradiol, estradial acetate, conjugated estrogens, esterified estrogens. ethinyl etc. Doctor Temperli has worked with our founder, Stephanie Anne Lloyd who was one of the UK's first transsexuals to undergo male-to-female reassignment surgery before which she received 3-years of feminising hormone treatment. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM FEMALE HORMONE TREATMENT Results vary by individual and also are related to the strength of the female hormones and androgen suppressants taken but the following will be experiences in stages •The outer layer of skin will become softer with smaller pore size •The smell of perspiration will become less acrid and more musky •A sense of self-contentment will develop •Mood swings will occur •Male facial and body hair will transition over time (especially if transdermal treatments are added) to become 'vellus' fine feminine growth •Swelling of the breast will start to become apparent •Nipples will become increasingly sensitised and milk ducts will start to form (as treatment continues some milky discharge is normal) •Nipples will begin to darken and become proportionate to the developing breasts •Buttocks will round out and waist shrink as subcutaneous fat is developed and distributed as an hourglass shape become defined. This is usually around the 2 year treatment stage •A secondary mound will develop on the developing breast area •Full development occurs between the third and fourth year of hormone therapy at which stage the secondary breast mound disappears leaving a fully filled out pair of female breasts with the areola recessed with only the nipples projecting •At this stage you only require a low maintenance dose of female hormones and androgen suppressants and those few that want reassignment surgery can proceed •Although involuntary erections will decrease, voluntary erections are unaffected THOSE WHO SHOULD SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE BEFORE TREATMENT Today's modern hormones are exceedingly safe to take at any age but it is wise to seek a medical opinion if you have a history of blood clots as estrogen (oestrogen) does increase the risk. If you are going on long haul flights it is wise to take a 75mg aspirin for a week before departure which will assist in thinning your blood. Those undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy as part of cancer treatment should seek specialist advice. Stephanie Anne Lloyd has taken female hormones and androgen suppressant since 1980 and at 69 years of age is still active and in good health. CONFIDENTIALITY Your details should you engage with us will be held in a secure database preventing any hacking or unauthorised access. All deliveries are sent securely packaged with no indication of what the parcel contains and only the words 'Sercus Ltd.' will appear on your credit card statements. WHY US? We are the sole supplier of genuine approved female hormone treatments which have been rigorously tested and approved as safe and effective. Transformation is a not-for-profit organisation established in 1984 with over 30 years experience and have held the licence for distribution of this unique hormone range for over 30 years. Our transsexual founder fortunately married a supermarket multi-millionaire who has funded much of our research for over 30 years allowing us to offer these exclusive hormone treatments at an affordable price We give you an absolute 100% money back guarantee on anything and everything you purchase. Other companies may offer 'mammary gland' products supplied by American & European companies as most are made in China, completely ineffective and may contain ingredients that are known cacogenics We offer free advice regarding all aspects of transgender issues from the legality of crossdressing in public, employment law and the changing of legal documents (passport, drivers licence etc) with a customer support team available by phone - +44 (0)161 773 4477 or email between 8am & 5pm GMT on weekdays.

WE EXTEND A WARM WELCOME TO OUR VERY SPECIAL WORLD

KNOWLEDGE + UNDERSTANDING = WISDOM WISDOM + APPLICATION = TRANSFORMATION When you look at feminising your body the task looks immense and it is true that there is no miracle overnight solution so you need to focus on making small incremental steps toward your personal objective. To give knowledge and understanding for transgenders is our main objective. If you persevere with hormone therapy those small changes will add up to a big transformation so commit yourself to a process that takes genetic females up to 4 years to complete. Don't become discouraged or give up, even a beautiful butterfly has to undergo a long transformation before it emerges but the wait is worth it. Whatever your age or medical condition we have a feminising solution for you and we are in the process of redesigning our website so it presents solutions matching your objectives so that you can source the best cost effective hormone regime for you as an individual. We intend to focus on you and tailor both our products and service to your personal objectives. If you would like us to individualise a treatment course for you then it would assist us in doing so if we knew a little more about you. Transformation with you every step of the way

Witness the amazing transformation that can be achieved whatever your age or build. Beautiful, convincing femininity is just a phone call away with our famous 'Changeaway' makeovers.

Why not come and spend a leisurely half-day in our Changeaway suites, being pampered as only a woman can be. After a coffee and a chat, you change, slipping into soft, slinky underwear, topped by a really feminine outfit. Acclimatising to stiletto heels, you move to the beauty salon, chatting to the friendly beautician as she prepares your skin for make-up.

Not only will she professionally apply the cosmetics, but she will teach you in detail every step of the way. By this time you will be thoroughly relaxed and chatting like old friends. A wig is selected and then you stand back, letting the mirror reflect the new you - completely transformed into a convincing feminine woman, and all in warm, comfortable and secure surroundings, with new-found friends.

What Our Customers Say...

"I would like to thank you very much. In March 2001 I went for a Changeaway.I hadn't felt right in myself for ages. The advice and service I received were simply wonderful. Monika impressed me most with her charming accent and positivity that brought so much understanding and joy.Thank you, I'll definitely visit again, it was an unforgettable experience." Ria

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Our Transformation shop is situated in a very quiet and discreet location that is easy to find and has lots of parking.

No need to be shy or nervous, one of our understanding female staff will welcome you with a coffee and look after you throughout your stay.

Once you have chosen your individual Changeaway, you will help select your whole outfit from foundation wear and undies right through to dress and wig.

You'll probably not be used to all the feminine frills and fastenings, so your chosen hostess will assist you to dress.

Under patient, understanding guidance, our female staff will complete your dressing to perfection, down to the last detail.

Step by step make-up will be applied with detailed explanation and tuition. Be amazed as a beautiful feminine face looks back at you from the mirror.

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The final part of the amazing transformation consists of styling the wig and adding the finishing touch with jewellery.

Now, your time being treated as the feminine woman you have become begins - the opportunity of enjoying the Changeaway lounge and some deportment training.

Chat to our friendly, understanding staff, watch some specialist videos or perhaps swap experiences with other Changeaway visitors.

Whilst you are dressed why not spend some time in our shop, mingling with our staff and other TV/TS customers?

Now the chance to model for the camera (Polaroid for confidentiality), so you can see yourself as a convincing woman. It's yours to keep.

Still in a dream as your experience of a lifetime draws to an end, your female hostess will help you change back and ensure every trace of make-up is completely removed.

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Rachel recently emailed us with her comments on our Changeaway Service, and was kind enough to allow us to post them on the site. So here, in her own words, is the story of her Changeaway.

It started last week when I found the website. I was very interested, so I looked at every link in the site. One of these links led me to the Changeaway service. My interest now deepened.

I followed up this interest with a reconnaissance mission to the local (Manchester) Transformation shop, which I entered somewhat tentatively. The shop lady, Susan, noticed that I was a bag of nerves and immediately took me under her wing, made me some coffee and explained all the services that were on offer. Susan was extremely patient as I fired off a never-ending string of questions, every one of which she answered fully, sometimes with a practical demonstration. Susan suggested I give myself a femme name and I chose Rachel.

Now my appetite was whetted and I resolved to return for the four-hour stay. I could not stay on that day, as there was not enough time since I had to meet a train at a given time.

Today, seven days after the reconnaissance mission, I steeled myself and took the plunge. On entering the shop I was greeted by Chrissie, who answered some more questions before I finally decided to have a Changeaway. I went for the ‘Just For You’ look, recommended by Susan and Chrissie. Chrissie took me to the wardrobe and helped me choose an outfit. I had already given some thought to how I wished to look – elegant, rather than sexy or tarty – and Chrissie recommended a lovely three-piece outfit in a soft fabric (I have no idea what it was made of, just that it was soft). We then chose the undergarments together and I dressed in my new look. Chrissie brought me some very elegant court shoes in my size. The fit, like everything else, was perfect.

Chrissie then took me to the salon where she applied make-up. Every move she made was explained as though it were a lesson, which, of course, it was. Then came the fitting of a wig, to which Chrissie took a comb. Last but not least we chose a handbag and some jewellery. Nothing outrageous, just some simple earrings and a choker to help hide that part of the neck where the make-up ended and the colour of my chest began! Voila! Rachel was born. I could not be more surprised when I looked at the finished article in a full-length mirror. Wow! Who was this creature standing before me? Was it really me? Chrissie assured me it was and paid nice compliments on how I looked. She would take none of the credit, insisting she had good material to work with! But most of the credit does go to her.

I relaxed in the lounge, watched a little television, read a couple of magazines, and then took another bold step. I went downstairs into the shop to browse, in the full knowledge that I was likely to meet other customers, and me dressed like I was! I did meet other people and they were all very kind with compliments. I chatted with Chrissie and her colleague Gaynor, and had some more coffee.

Unfortunately time has a habit of rolling on and today was no exception. Before I undressed and removed the make-up Chrissie took my photograph in the lounge. Again, I was amazed at how good I looked.

After putting my own clothes back on, Chrissie checked for traces of make-up and marched me into the salon to remove some I had missed. I made my goodbyes, promising to return (and I will!) and gave Chrissie a little peck on the cheek. You devil!

On my way back into the city I had the some warm glow that I had had ever since Chrissie finished with the make-up and wig. The feeling was absolutely wonderful and was so carried away that I missed my tram stop!

I showed the photo to a friend of mine who is an assistant in a lingerie shop. Like me she was amazed and she too was full of compliments. All these compliments have made me believe that I did actually look good.

I am sorry to have rambled on, but I just had to share this experience with the world at large, and if there is anybody out there who cannot decide whether to have a Changeaway or not, please follow my lead. You will not regret it one iota.

Finally, yes finally, I send out my heartfelt thanks and warm appreciation to Chrissie, Gaynor, Susan and Gail – all of the Manchester shop – and would be happy to know that their efforts have been recognised by the management. With love, Rachel

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Diane's story of her Birmingham Changeaway...

This is just a short note to say thank you for my first Changeaway experience. I thoroughly enjoyed myself as Diane and was met by friendly staff where nothing was too much trouble.

I have been dressing in girls clothes since the age of 9 or 10 years old and I have always had to borrow from my mother's wardrobe. I never had a sister so I had nothing in my age category to wear. Every opportunity I have had since I have dashed into my mother's or my wife's wardrobe and snatched a few precious minutes, hours of being Diane. Recently this has reached a point where I now wear Diane's underwear all the time under my male drab. And aren't male clothes dreary? So on my way to going to see my Gender Therapist for the first time I decided that a Changeaway at Transformation was the thing to help me along, get me into the right frame of mind so to speak. Here is a brief description of my 4 hours in paradise. Like a lot of people, I suspect, I entered the shop in Birmingham feeling pretty nervous. I had not let on to anybody about my transvestism before so I felt a little apprehensive. I was met by Karen who offered me a cup of coffee and then explained the options available to me. I chose a changeaway, £99. We chose shoes, corset, wig etc from the store and then I was taken upstairs where we selected from a range of clothes. I have always marvelled at the Lady in her business suit and wanted to be just like her. I chose a court style shoe with 2" heel (I did not want anything too high as I am 6' 2" already), and a couple of blonde wigs owing to my fair complexion. We changed these later for a light brown Sophie style, which suited me better.

I fitted myself into my corset and then Karen laced me up good and tight. Next time I think I will try a smaller 30", but the effect of the 32" was terrific. I suddenly felt feminine, truly feminine, with a curvaceous waist and breasts of course. The breast forms are really very realistic. Despite the obvious hugging sensation of the corset it was surprisingly comfortable.

I chose a black skirt and jacket and when finally ready Karen came and did my make up. We fitted the wig, tidied the hair so it was just right and voila Diane was ready to strut her stuff. I spent a lot of time in the lounge just looking at myself in the mirror, I could hardly believe the change that had taken place. I still need to do something about my deportment, but the makeover was such a wonderful experience that I was reluctant to change back.

As time goes on of course then I will improve, but I need more practice.

I spent some time in the shop looking at all the different things one can buy and basically walked around getting used to being Diane. Karen took photographs of me and I felt like a million dollars. It has been stated that I look elegant by girlfriends - wonderful, I love elegant ladies.

So Transformation, thank you for a wonderful experience, to feel truly feminine was a big boost for my self esteem. I enjoyed my day immensely. There is something really nice about being feminine and I have embarked on my journey to achieving the ultimate in grace, beauty, gentleness and of course perfection.

Thank you,

Diane

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Transformation Shops - turning your feminine "Girlie" fantasy into reality. With our friendly understanding expertise (over 20 years) and discretion we really can make your wishes come true.

Everyone is naturally nervous at first, but we will soon make you feel relaxed and not before long you will be totally and convincingly feminised, chatting woman to woman - with us all!

OVER £30 WORTH OF PRODUCTS FREE, FOR YOU TO TAKE HOME WITH EVERY CHANGEAWAY.

A free pair of gorgeous panties, a free pair of stockings or tights from our classical collection and a free book or magazine, any title from our shelves (cover price up to £15). Click here to find out what's included in your changeaway.

Menu 1 - Just For You

Just as you like it. Its whatever individual feminine look your after, we will give you a totally free choice to pick any outfit from our huge wardrobe. Discuss with your personal assistant just the look your after, be it convincing daytime, secretarial, girl about town or eveningwear. Remember it's your special day, or if you prefer just leave the whole thing to us and we will transform you into a beautiful convincing female. If it's your first experience then we strongly recommend this menu - Just for You. Excludes bridal or sexy-tarty wear. Plus over £30 worth of free products to take home.

Just For You Changeaway - only £119

Spoil Yourself - 2 Just For You Changeaways - only £149

Make the very most of your time with us, let us help you to create a fabulous second new feminine look. And if you wish and have the time stay with us even longer. Plus £30 worth of products to take home.

Menu 2 - Once In a Lifetime (Sexy and Tarty)

Its got to be our most popular fun choice. Let us help turn your fantasy into reality. Be a Tart, Hooker, French Maid (want to do some housework?), a naughty school girl (write 200 lines)or a dominatrix. You can wear our largest silicone breasts, shortest skirt or dress, uniforms, stiletto heels, thigh boots, PVC-minis and yes, it's got to be fishnets or seams. With our transforming skills and your imagination were bound to have fun. Sorry no rubber or leather, unless you've brought your own. No ABs.

Sexy and Tarty Changeaway - only £139

Spoil yourself - 2 Sexy and Tarty Changeaways - only £169

Make the most of your time with us, let us help you to create a fabulous second new feminine look. And if you wish and have the time to stay with us even longer. Plus £30 worth of products to take home.

Menu 3 - Once In A Lifetime Bridal

Every girl dreams of wearing a wedding dress. An extra special treat, for your dream really will become reality. Includes wearing stunning full-length satin bridal wear, all-white lingerie, corsetry, stockings and garters. A very special make-up application to match the truly feminine look and wig dressing. And all the accessories too. It's bound to be your special day, a day to remember. Includes 2 polaroid photos, to capture this very special day.

Once In A Lifetime Changeaway - only £169

Spoil yourself - 2 Once In A Lifetime Changeaways - only £199

Make the most of your time with us, let us help you to create a fabulous second new feminine look. And if you wish and have the time to stay with us even longer. For your second look, you are free to select from our whole wardrobe. Plus £30 worth of products to take home.

Menu 4 - Transformation Makeover

For those who choose to wear all their own clothing. Our staff will assist you with dressing, and apply all your make-up too, ensuring you truly look your feminine best. Do remember, you can always store your clothing too.

Transformation Makeover - only £79

Spoil yourself - All Day Makeover - only £199

Make the very most of your day and stay with us for up to six hours.

Extras

Extra Polaroid photos. One extra photo £4, three photos £10, ten photos only £25.

Clothing Storage. 3 months £49, 12 months £175. All storage items left at owners risk, all bags must be locked. Please note we have the right to inspect all items. Prices are per case/bag up to a maximum weight of 20kg.

False Eyelashes (yours to take home). For those sexual feminine eyes only £9.99.

Stick on Luxury False Nails (yours to take home and use again). For pretty feminine hands-only £12.99.

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HERES WHAT YOU WILL BE WEARING AND WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Your choice of:

Silicone Breasts - small, medium or x large cups, False nipples, Bra - lacy, satin or see-thru, Tight lacing corset - to pull your waist in, Gorgeous knickers. FREE to take home - you can choose your preferred style from a select range, Cache Sex - to tuck away your maleness, Panty girdle or roll-on, Hip pads, Bottom pads, Femme form, Suspender belt, satin or lacy Stockings. FREE to take home, you choose your preferred style from Classic Collection Garters, Tights. FREE to take home, you choose your preferred style from Classic Collection. Full Slip, Mini or Knee-length, Slinky blouse or top, Skirt - mini, knee or maxi length, Dress - mini, knee or maxi length, Shoes or boots - from a 2 inch up to 6-inch heels, Make up applied by your very own personal assistant, Wig - long, short, straight or curly, Earrings, dangly, clip-on, Bracelets, Rings, Necklaces, Hair clips - if required, Tiaras - bridal, Evening gloves, Handbags - to keep your valuables with you, Any book or magazine from our shelves - cover price up to £15. FREE for you to take home. Polaroid photo to keep or add to our gallery, Make up remover - don't worry we will check you leave with no traces Washing/Showering facilities, Clean towels/robes, All your male clothing locked away securely, All the tea and coffee you can drink, Advice on dressing, makeup and deportment, Enjoy a "girlie" shopping experience.

Don't forget all the items you have worn and more can be purchased before you leave, and if storing them at home is a problem then lets us keep them safe for you, till you want to come and dress with us again.

Getting you ready will take approx. 1 hour then you have the rest of the time with us to totally enjoy being a woman in our company. You may choose to stay in our private "homely" lounges, well-stocked with videos, books and mags or with remaining us in the shop, meeting and chatting with our other changeaway guests, enjoying our womanly ambience whilst doing what every girl loves---- shopping!

HOW TO FEMINISE YOUR VOICE

advice from our transsexual founder

When you reached puberty your voice will have 'broken' giving you a manly deeper voice but despite this you can feminise the way you speak and this post will you you how to feminise your voice. Fennella Fielding, a famous UK personality has a deep husky voice which sounds really sexy. First of all do not try and squeak to a higher octave, you will just sound 'camp' instead you need to speak from your stomach rather than from your lungs Practise this by placing your hand on your tummy, taking a deep breath and consciously press down ensuring that it deflates as you speak. This takes some time to master but in time will lead to a 'breathy' sounding feminine voice. Woman have a different way of talking involving gestures so be observant, watch and observe carefully to follow the lilt of their sentences and how they end them. Women are very touchy-feely with female friends but will react very differently to men according to whether they are strangers, acquaintances or friends. Women are generally more reserved and will not seek to dominate a conversation, when they are nervous they will tend to play with their hair, earrings etc If you look feminine then it is much easier to be convincing but the telephone call is much more difficult and the person will tend to make an instant decision on your gender according to your voice. You must sound confident and introduce yourself before saying anything else, so if you answer a call simply state your name "Hi Jennifer Carter speaking" this tells them they are speaking to a woman. If at any point anyone addresses you as 'Sir' confidently correct them and they will apologise and adjust their mindset For those of you serious about sounding feminine especially if you are going to live as a woman then we have a speech therapy training course comprised of CD's and a tutorial which you can obtain For full details of our Speech Therapy Course - please click here Whether you make use of this course or not, you need to observe women in minute detail, the way they air-kiss when meeting close friends, the way they gently shake hands, the way they move their hands whilst speaking in differing situation.

LOOK - LISTEN - LEARN then practise in front of a mirror until it becomes second nature. Someone asked me recently to speak as a man which I was 35 years ago and I couldn't remember how to!!! 35 years of living as a woman has made me fluent & confident in the ways of femininity so it come naturally without any conscious thought. Any specific questions you may have on this subject please feel free to email me at steffie@transformation.co.uk