Gynecomastia Support Forum
Gynecomastia Acceptance => Acceptance Garments => Topic started by: 42CSurprise! on March 26, 2022, 12:25:22 PM
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I've read on threads here about how clothes designed for women's bodies work well for men contending with elevated estrogen. We talk most explicitly about our breasts and the need for brassieres, but in reality, we likely all have more curvaceous bodies with hips and butts in addition to breasts. For me, another factor is I enjoy colors not often found in the men's department. Although I've mentioned playing with crossdressing along the way, that is not something I'm pursuing. But I decided to do a bit of shopping on E-Bay where I often buy brassieres to see if there are some rayon tops offered for women that I could try out without spending a great deal of money. The photo below shows the top I bought.. in a salmon color. I tried it as a night shirt and it was very comfortable. Below is a photo of the top over my favorite brassiere. The soft fabric is lovely and my breasts are doubly happy... for both the brassiere and the top. I'm very happy with the color as well... here with a burgundy vest. The rayon is not as warm as cotton.
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I like it. I bought a Salmon color dress shirt some time ago. I like colors and find it hard to find nice colorful shirts/tops in the men's isle.
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There is a reason the women’s section is 10 times bigger then the men’s. Lots to choose from. I remember years ago while shopping with my wife, she was looking at some sneakers. I said you just bought some the other day....her answer......she said they just look fun.....she said that about all her clothes she buys also...I could not argue with that. Our life’s should be fun. So she has two closets full of clothes and shoes....it’s fun for her....so when you look at it that way...have fun shopping for clothes, doesn’t matter which side of the isle it is...but I will have to agree with her..women’s clothing is much more fun then drab mens
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That top looks great on you.You have a nice rack 😘
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That top looks great on you.You have a nice rack 😘
I bet you say that to all the BOYS! (https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/72x72/1f923.png)
And that with a minimizer brassiere... 8)
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Only the boys with breasts like girls and who need to wear a bra as much as any girl does. And you certainly qualify!
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I ❤️ women's clothing. I just call them MY clothes. I was wearing women's clothes exclusively for years before. They felt and fit better. I also found that the girls at work noticed. I'm sure they realized that my clothing came from the same places that they shopped. However , they noticed in a good way. Like, I have to say that salmon/coral color is gorgeous on you, 42C! I started getting the same. The only things that I really changed when I transitioned was I swapped my slacks for a skirt and my loafers for slingbacks. Sometimes the shoes can be debateable but everything else is superior to men's clothing.
love yah guys😍
your sis,
Sophie
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...The only things that I really changed when I transitioned was I swapped my slacks for a skirt and my loafers for slingbacks. Sometimes the shoes can be debateable but everything else is superior to men's clothing.
love yah guys😍
your sis,
Sophie
Within the community of crossdressers I've visited from time to time there are a few for whom stockings and high heels are their major interest... may I say their "fetish." I understand that clunky shoes would destroy any attempt at looking appealing in women's clothes but honestly, high heels look like torture. I'm reminded of the ancient Chinese tradition of binding girls' feet to keep them tiny. Fashion can be brutal in what it does to the body. But wearing skirts, nylons and attractive shoes are no doubt a must. I think I'll stick with trousers, but I applaud your choices Sophie. You've taken the road "less traveled." ;D
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...The only things that I really changed when I transitioned was I swapped my slacks for a skirt and my loafers for slingbacks. Sometimes the shoes can be debateable but everything else is superior to men's clothing.
love yah guys😍
your sis,
Sophie
Within the community of crossdressers I've visited from time to time there are a few for whom stockings and high heels are their major interest... may I say their "fetish." I understand that clunky shoes would destroy any attempt at looking appealing in women's clothes but honestly, high heels look like torture. I'm reminded of the ancient Chinese tradition of binding girls' feet to keep them tiny. Fashion can be brutal in what it does to the body. But wearing skirts, nylons and attractive shoes are no doubt a must. I think I'll stick with trousers, but I applaud your choices Sophie. You've taken the road "less traveled." ;D
42C,
Heels 👠 are not as bad as you think. At least not for me. I was also blessed with an incredibly high archs which are perfect for wearing a 3-4" heel. Usuallya women's 9W is very comfortable for me. I wear heels everyday for work which is routinely a 10 hour day. Heels are a lot like wearing a bra. It's function and fashion. The very fashionable ones usually sacrifice some function. The very functional one usually sacrifice fashion. It's all about that balance of what is most appropriate for the occasion. Believe me, I have bras that are NOT appropriate to wear for work and others that would not be appropriate for "special occasions"😉🥰
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it seems like you have very small feet. my wife wears 10's
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My sister is jealous. She actually wears a women's 10.5 or 11.
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I wear women’s 11
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...Believe me, I have bras that are NOT appropriate to wear for work and others that would not be appropriate for "special occasions"😉🥰
That comment likely stirs the imagination of more than one person on this thread. The realm of "special occasions" in a transgender world is the stuff of fantasy for many of us. I understand we don't talk about such things but your comment certainly made me smile... :D
Perhaps I should be watching out for a "special occasions" brassiere next time I shop. (https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/72x72/1f631.png)
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I won't go into details here about what " special occasions" mean here because they mean something different to everyone. I was simply stating a fact and maybe demonstrating how women think. I will wear stilettos for special occasions though.😉
Back to the original intent. Bras, as we know them have to separate but equally important components. Like shoes, they were simply functional at first. They are designed to provide protection for your feet. Your bra was originally designed to provide support and aa layer of protection for your breasts. As time has passed both have added features and both have become more specialized.
My point is that if you have feet, you probably wear or at least have justification for wear shoes. If you have breasts, have that same justification for wearing a bra.
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I won't go into details here about what " special occasions" mean here because they mean something different to everyone. I was simply stating a fact and maybe demonstrating how women think. I will wear stilettos for special occasions though.😉
You only make it MORE tantalizing with a comment like that Sophie... this is definitely in the ? territory I mention that lies beyond appreciation. Perhaps we need another website for THAT... (https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/72x72/1f47a.png)(https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/72x72/1f631.png)(https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/72x72/1f60e.png)
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I know this is a bit dated but I wanted to come back to this. I’ve been a staunch adversary against the notion of men wearing women’s clothing and not calling it crossdressing especially in the tone and style of what it’s been used to speak about here and argue in the case for it. I think a lot of us here do not have female body’s and large busts that demand blouses and female cut tops. But as well, many do obviously.
I wanted to apologize for my past ignorance here regarding this topic. While I’m sure no one cares or has any opinion about anyone’s opinion about it outside a momentary response to. It’s just kind of my nature to acknowledge when I’m incorrect.
About two months ago when my favorite bra was getting too tight in the cups I was leaving the bra dept and of course panties and other garments are present there obviously. Curiosity got the best of me and I decided to try a couple packages of women’s underwear. I also browsed the jeans as my jeans never fit right and not because of hips and such but just felt good but fit wrong. So I got a pair of levis women’s that were not identifiably female other than the pocket depth.
It’s been two months maybe since that and I’ve got to say women’s underwear is just tremendously more comfortable so much so I’ve gotten rid of my male underwear and my male jeans and have switched exclusively to women’s.
This isn’t some hoorah of a let’s rehash the topic but getting dressed this morning just made me realize just how more comfortable I am in these clothes that the others. And all my past opinion on any item of women’s clothing is crossdressing is now realized as just false to me. Maybe to society and so forth but to anyone honestly wearing it without intention to cross dress or is trans and whatnot it’s obviously simply just clothing.
So anyways maybe the coffee is just too strong this morning and I couldn’t sleep well either so sorry if this ramble is nothing. But wanted to say thanks to this forum again. It time to time continues to expand my view and perspective.
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I am happy that you are happy with your clothing and how it fits and feels. I started wearing panties when I was in high school. Yes, I did like that fact that they were panties and that they were "women's " underwear. They did in fact fit and feel better too.
About in my mid twenties I had started wearing women's outerwear. I also started with jeans and then started replacing my dress slacks with ones from Lane Bryant and the ladies department at JCPENNEY and Macy's. I also became very tried of wearing my men's button down shirts that were too big and started wearing blouses and other tops that actually fit my figure.
It was really only in the last 5 years that I got into wearing skirts and dresses and transitioned to womanhood.
Everyone is unique and wears whatever is best for themselves. I chat with a few other members here who shall remain nameless that are in a similar position as myself who have begun their own journey towards womanhood and other members who are content with minimal support of their girls.
I am always happy to chat with anyone about any of it. It's all good!
🥰😍🤗❣️🍆🔪🌮❤️
Sophie ❤️
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I’ve been a staunch adversary against the notion of men wearing women’s clothing and not calling it crossdressing .................I am in these clothes that the others. And all my past opinion on any item of women’s clothing is crossdressing is now realized as just false to me.
So men wearing women's clothing ws cross dressing, and you were opposed to men cross dressing. But now that you are wearing women's clothing, you are not opposed to it, because you changed your mind, and it is not cross dressing? You can justify it all you want, but that doesnt change the dictionaries. Is the real issue, that you thought cross dressing was wrong, and you'd rather want to change the meanings of words than admit you've changed your moral stance?
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My moral stance? Thought it was wrong? I never ever in my life had a moral stance on it nor did I ever think how anyone wishes to dress is wrong. I did have an opinion that men who have no need for alternative clothing options designed for women and wear it simply for feminine effect is crossdressing. That opinion stays the same. There is in my opinion however the consideration of is someone wearing something for general comfort and potential need or to appeal to feminine tendencies and appear feminine in presentation.
If someone does that then let them do them. My arguments in the past were always there are forums for that. We are a forum of men with breasts not men who want to discuss the falls latest dress like up. And that is why I generally never comment on posts that encourage that. Nothing wrong with it. I encourage anyone to feel comfortable as they choose just not the forum for it. I’m not changing dictionaries or re defining things based on a oh I like it now. I simply am saying I tried some other underwear and enjoyed the fit. Men’s jeans are stretchy now days and instead of paying 78.00 at express I bought similar style for 20.00 at target.
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Dudewithboobs,
I appreciate your honesty and your openness to try clothing marketed towards women. It's not for everyone. Some men have a feminine shape that lends itself well to women's clothing. It's only natural that it is more comfortable and likely looks better because it fits better. It starts with your bra and go from there.
Sophie ❤️
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Thanks I never want to be someone who has a view or opinion that can’t be changed. Being open to all views and ideas and things I feel makes anyone who allows it live a crazy easier life. I’ve had plenty of opinions and views I’ve stuck with and others I’ve changed. Some are by giving personal experience to and others are by getting personal perspective from.
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DWB, you've done nothing wrong. You have changed your opinion based on the benefit of experience, that's all. You now understand that there is a clear distinction between wearing women's clothing to appear feminine, and wearing women's clothing because they fit you better. This applies equally to underwear and tops/pants etc.
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Thanks. I really see no difference in wearing panties now than wearing male panties or briefs instead of boxer shorts and so forth. Just the women’s version seemed odd always but it’s literally the same thing just generally a softer fabric. Not like I am buying floral lace and ish like that just general style
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According to my doctor. Men like myself with a hormonal imbalance can be a cause of several things. In my case he thinks its environmental, my age and maybe my genes. Environmental because I am a farmer/rancher and have been exposed to a large variety of chemicals. Plastics because I always had a plastic Diet Pepsi in my hand. Loved that stuff at one time. Genes...my grandmother and mother were very large breasted. My sisters are also. So when my imbalance started to happen my middle section,butt, thighs and boobs got much bigger. Doctor says that’s what happens with way to much estrogen and a depleted testosterone level. But with that, estrogen is stored in fat. So hit caused my weight gain but now is stored there..double whammy...lol. So to the gym I go three times a week to lose all this. Well I lost my middle section but my butt,thighs and boobs stayed basically the same. WTH!..doctor told me there is no way of telling what part of the body the weight comes off. Everyone is different to a certain extent. So wrangler jeans didn’t really fit anymore. My wife suggested trying on women’s jeans because she said I have a figure now instead of a good body I once had. I have found that Lee women’s 100% cotton relaxed fit straight jeans fit me perfectly. Fit around my waist and flare out at the butt and thighs. Perfect fit for my butt and thighs. Am I a crossdresser? I sure am, I crossed over that isle at the store and bought jeans, bras and panties that fit my body. I am 100% male. So wear what fits. Wear what makes you feel good. Even if it’s lace frilly stuff or whatever. Life is short...enjoy it. If the haters don’t like it....who cares...sounds like they have a problem...lol
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Dude, I too thank you for your honesty and openness on this matter. I feel sorry for any individual that can't continue to grow and learn. Thing is I feel its all marketing. Why not separate clothing that best fits women and men so selecting becomes easier and a bit more private within sexes. Buy what fits. What most can't get past is for some wearing anything of the opposing sex is a bit of a fetish. I don't believe that is what men here are talking about.
Good for you DWB.
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I agree and it took a bit to come around to that but like I said some change of opinions of mine come from personal experience. I run a lot on my lunch breaks and change and always hated going back to work sweating still and boxers being so uncomfortable I finally tried panties solely as a I bet these fit better for myself and for comfort with that activity in itself. And it does. I tried the male version of it but still was just too thick of material and too hot. Face it women’s underwear fits feels and breathes better it’s just underwear to me and it’s not a redefining of it it’s a realizing of it
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I agree and it took a bit to come around to that but like I said some change of opinions of mine come from personal experience. I run a lot on my lunch breaks and change and always hated going back to work sweating still and boxers being so uncomfortable I finally tried panties solely as a I bet these fit better for myself and for comfort with that activity in itself. And it does. I tried the male version of it but still was just too thick of material and too hot. Face it women’s underwear fits feels and breathes better it’s just underwear to me and it’s not a redefining of it it’s a realizing of it
Right on. explore the options guys. We look for it in shorts and shirts. Are undies that taboo?
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Wow - this subject ....again.
I agree with DWB's premise.
Gmast: Once upon a time I was and wore men's 36 waist jeans. Had some drastic heart surgery, lost 27 lbs in 17 days, and my waist size dropped to 30-31, with my hips still at 41-42. Men's jeans that fit my waist wouldn't go over my hips, and those that went over my hips were waaay too big in the waist. A saleslady in a clothing store told me that my waist-hip measurements were women's size 10-12 (depending on slim, regular, etc.). So, I got some size 10 regular and they fit. Had nothing whatsoever to do with cross-dressing.
Fast forward a few years, and - lo and behold - the medications that were (and are!) keeping me alive had a side effect of suppressing both testosterone production and absorption, coupled with the usual age related T decline, resulting in significant breast development. As can be seen, wearing a bra for me isn't a matter of c-d fetish but necessary for support, bounce control, and appearance.
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I, myself, have come to the conclusion that clothing is only labelled a certain gender because society has labeled that. I am not a cross dresser. I don't go around trying to be a certain gender. I am wanting to be comfortable in my appearance and my physical self.
I wear bras. Not because I want to be a woman but because I have a very prominent physical trait, that society has label as "woman"; breasts. For years I let them sag, and bounce and jiggle and sway off my chest because society says men don't wear bras because they don't have breast tissue to support. Eventually, my breast became physically uncomfortable and didn't look all that great either in hindsight. I now wear a garment that is labeled as "women's" to deal with this physical trait for appearance and comfort. My DD size breast have weight. Several pounds worth. They are heavy and a bra takes that weight, and swag, and sag, and bounce and jiggle away. That's not cross dressing, that is necessity.
And not all men's tops will accommodate my developed chest. Some men's tops will pull across my chest in a manner that over extenuates my chest. Some men's button down tops will pull open at the buttons or since men's button downs are not made for a bust, a gaping hole will develop between buttons over the apex of my bust exposing my bra or layering garment because there is no room in the chest area for developed breasts. So a garment labeled as "women" works better since it's designed to accommodate for a bust. This too does not make me a cross dresser.
Due to the same reason of my developed chest, I am finding that some bottoms labeled as "woman" fit my waist/bum better than some bottoms labeled "men". This doesn't make me a cross dresser either.
My wearing of clothing designated as "woman'" has everything to my physical and mental comfort and nothing to do with cross dressing. I believe most men here fall into this same category.
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^ Perfectly said.
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We live 2 hours away from a very liberal city..A college town...we like to go there about once every 2 months for the cool shops and eateries around the college district. You see transgenders,crossdressers, men in skirts and kilts and people of all ages wearing different types of clothing and shoes and even hats. Never heard anyone say anything. So last time we went I wanted to see if people do say things and we are not just hearing it. I wore a white polo shirt and white bra that was very visible through my shirt. And the shirt was a little tight. Shopped all day went to lunch and dinner at a restaurant and nobody said anything. No stares..nothing. Sure people look but look at you just in a normal casual way. So I guess it just depends on where one lives. I’m beginning to think that even in more conservative areas people don’t really care what one wears anymore. Too much other stuff happening out there to worry about someone else’s clothing. And if people crossdress be it men or women....who cares?..I don’t and neither does my wife. And if people on this forum don’t like that type of conversation....don’t read it and don’t comment. Read and comment on what interests you have...in other words, simply change the channel. I’m not trying to be mean about, just a common sense approach
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Some people want to redefine the common language we have used for years. We all know that there is a sigma of perversion associated with crossressing, and especially transvestites. It seems like some are wanting to pretend that wearing women's clothing isn't crossdressing and hope the stigma doesnt apply to them, by trying to limit the meaning of crossdressing. But in the end, when people notice you wearing women's clothing, it doesn't matter what definition you use, they still see a guy wearing women's clothing.
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Gmast, you got an axe to grind against men who have gynecomastia ??
Cross-dressing is understood to be a person of one sex wearing clothes associated with the other sex in order to appear to be the other sex. That is not "redefining" anything.
Wearing jeans or a shirt that fits, while NOT trying to appear as a different sex IS NOT cross dressing. That is not "redefining" anything either.
I think we ALL agree a man wearing a dress IS cross-dressing.
Got it now !?
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No, I do not have an ax to grind with gyecomastia. I do have a problem with ignorance and people choosing their truth over facts. Please take the time to do a quick check of several dictionaries. They all say that cross dressing is wearing clothes of the opposite sex, but they do not the qualifier of intent.
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gmast..if you don’t like this part of the forum quit reading it and please quit posting. Just move along. I’m sure there are other parts of the forum that suit your needs. Your truth might be different than other peoples truth.
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Gmast, you got an axe to grind against men who have gynecomastia ??
Cross-dressing is understood to be a person of one sex wearing clothes associated with the other sex in order to appear to be the other sex. That is not "redefining" anything.
Wearing jeans or a shirt that fits, while NOT trying to appear as a different sex IS NOT cross dressing. That is not "redefining" anything either.
I think we ALL agree a man wearing a dress IS cross-dressing.
Got it now !?
Heck, even a an wearing a dress isn't necessarily cross dressing. Phish's drummer wears one at every performance for comfort. He certainly isn't aiming to be perceived as a woman and nobody would mistake him as such.
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No, I do not have an ax to grind with gyecomastia. I do have a problem with ignorance and people choosing their truth over facts. Please take the time to do a quick check of several dictionaries. They all say that cross dressing is wearing clothes of the opposite sex, but they do not the qualifier of intent.
If intent is removed then by far the biggest contingent of cross dressers in the world are women (and that's totally fine, I'm not judging anyone).
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Pretty good point and that’s the point often made. So it’s cool for a woman to wear men’s clothes even defined as sexy often times. But a man wears jeans labeled as women’s and oh man heads up cause here comes a dictionary bat your head. My way of life is keep the same energy across the board. Gmast if you got qualms and issues with this I hope you get equally as mad at women who wear a mans item or items of clothing or labeled for a man.
One thing I’ve come to learn at this age is rarely do you find people who keep the same energy and they will make arguments for one and exceptions for the other all while both are in equal violation of opinion. And unless you’re keeping the same energy it’s not worth spending the energy arguing.
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I think we can all agree to disagree. This is a point that has as many definitions as there are people and none are totally right nor totally wrong just many shades of gray mimicking society.
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Hmmmm...
I wonder when I was first considered a crossdresser?
I started wearing a bra for support when I was 12....
I switched to panties at 16 years old. They fit and felt better....
I was in my mid twenties when I started wearing women's slacks because they didn't make men's that fit my bottom and hips....
Shortly after that I found blouses at Lane Bryant that looked like a men's shirt but, actually fit....
Maybe it was when I admitted to myself that I was a woman of transgender experience and started wearing skirts.... No, that would mean that as a woman, I would be crossdressing if I wore men's clothing.
I don't know and none of it matters. Too many labels. I like my label. I'M SOPHIE!!!
Love you guys,
Sophie ❤️
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My issue here is not whether I have a problem with all or any crossdressing, it is with honesty, trust, and credibility. If people come here for advice, and they are told they should wear a bra or that they look good with a bra, and then they see you saying that wearing a bra, panties, and or women's jeans is not cross dressing, your credibility is gone. It makes me wonder what your true motives are sometimes, is it to help guys with gyne, gas light them, or get validation for yourself?
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One thing for me:
My entire life I have wondered why I couldn't fit into women's clothing.
As I keep saying, I keep asking... where are my hips.
well now my body is changing and my thighs seem to alter just a bit. I tried a pair of women's lee riders and they fit way better than the Wranglers I have worn for more than 20 years.
So IDK what the main issue is.. I am just looking at what fits me now.
And men's clothing seems to be not fairing well.
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One thing for me:
My entire life I have wondered why I couldn't fit into women's clothing.
As I keep saying, I keep asking... where are my hips.
well now my body is changing and my thighs seem to alter just a bit. I tried a pair of women's lee riders and they fit way better than the Wranglers I have worn for more than 20 years.
So IDK what the main issue is.. I am just looking at what fits me now.
And men's clothing seems to be not fairing well.
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My issue here is not whether I have a problem with all or any crossdressing, it is with honesty, trust, and credibility. If people come here for advice, and they are told they should wear a bra or that they look good with a bra, and then they see you saying that wearing a bra, panties, and or women's jeans is not cross dressing, your credibility is gone. It makes me wonder what your true motives are sometimes, is it to help guys with gyne, gas light them, or get validation for yourself?
I'm confused about your need to clarify the points you make on this thread which I started some time ago. Are you deputized to police the threads to make certain language is used correctly? It must be lonely being the person who is always evaluating everyone else's word choice and stepping in when you believe confusion will lead to some unhappy end for someone. The other possibility is to walk on by and allow the world to unfold exactly as it is unfolding in that place at that time. Everyone here is trying to wrap their minds around the fact nature has given them breast tissue. We talk about brassieres and clothing but the conversation really has deeper meaning. Living with elevated estrogen is about more than having a curvaceous body that warrants wearing clothes designed for women's similarly curvaceous bodies. Estrogen affects how we see the world and deal with emotions. You're right, of course, the world has long judged men who look or act like women. A great many teens got in deep trouble decades ago because they began wearing their hair long. You can imagine what wearing earrings does, so wearing brassieres is often the source of judgment, even on this website. That is why this section devoted to self-acceptance was created by the man who started this website. Men here are supporting one another in finding some path through this hormonal quagmire that allows us to feel good about the choices we make. We really don't need thought police explaining to us what words mean. We're a pretty smart bunch here. You're welcome to hang out with us if you're prepared to put down your badge, whether you wear a brassiere or not. 8)
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I can only speak for myself, however I do believe that 42CSUPRISE is correct.
We can all agree about how estrogen effects our bodies. People born male can develop breasts, softer skin, and fat redistribution which gives the body a feminine appearance.
More subjective is how estrogen effects our individual brains. There are some things that are not subjective such as heightened emotional response, whether a happy or sad response. What IS subjective is how else estrogen works on our brains. Does it help us identify with others who are estrogen dominant such as genetic women? Does that in turn effect how we wish to present ourselves? Such as what we choose to wear? How we wear our hair or other grooming habits?
I believe that it is all connected. It is very unfair and judgmental to write something here that says what people can wear or can't wear. Estrogen is a very powerful substance that has been responsible for the survival of our species for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of years.
Be kind, love you guys,
Sophie ❤️
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My issue here is not whether I have a problem with all or any crossdressing, it is with honesty, trust, and credibility. If people come here for advice, and they are told they should wear a bra or that they look good with a bra, and then they see you saying that wearing a bra, panties, and or women's jeans is not cross dressing, your credibility is gone. It makes me wonder what your true motives are sometimes, is it to help guys with gyne, gas light them, or get validation for yourself?
This area of the website was created for those who have accepted their gynecomastia and want to talk about it and how estrogen has affected their body and mind. There is no "gaslighting" being done. If you do not wish to partake in or lurk, then why are you here? Go to the other areas of this website if you want to remove your breasts and "go flat".
We are here to support one another, not to challenge our fashion choices.
Love,
Joni ❤️
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There is something that developed recently with me that I am genuinely surprised at.
I now am looking at shoes a bit more. Something I have never done. So it does make me wonder if there isnt some “pink” brain going on.
But our society wont accept it now.
It caught me off guard and makes me wonder what is happening to my body and brain. Remember I am a “survivalist “ “tactical” type.
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Tax:
Sex hormones are very, very powerful behavioral influencers - and most of us know how Testosterone affects us.
Estrogen impacts women very strongly.
I know women who said, right after the birth of their first child, "I never want to do this again!". Then, a couple of months later they're in a negligee and sweet talking their husbands. often followed by another pregnancy!
So...when the estrogen level in a man gets elevated - in comparison to T levels - feminization of secondary physical attributes often occurs (e.g., gynecomastia, softer muscles, smoother skin, etc.). But this elevated estrogen can also impact us psychoemotionally. "Pink brain" is one way of describing this effect.
Which may explain why so many men in our situation find themselves thinking and doing things usually associated with women.
I think that for most of us here, these changes take effect subtly and slowly. (Unlike transsexuals who receive, by comparison, massive amounts of estrogen in a fairly short period of time.)
In my own case, I noticed 'feminine' reactions after 5 to 10 years on medications with antiandrogenic side effects.
But I noticed them after the changes had occurred. I've come to realize that it wasn't me 'deciding to' change this way, but just more of the effects, side effects, of my prescriptions. I think that as this progresses over time we not only become accustomed to them, but often get to the point of, "Ok,so what if...(I have breasts, feminine shaped hips / butt, find that 'womens' articles of clothing fit better now (all the while still very, and very comfortably, heterosexual). In other words, just accepting what has happened. Several guys here seem to have similar experiences (duh!?),and have posted that they've come the point of not caring what others may think about them having feminine ____________ (fill in the blank).
Apologies for the long post.
Be well.
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This is a wonderful meditation on what is a confusing evolution. It is rather absurd to believe we can understand what is happening when our bodies go through these changes. Honestly, I'd really prefer not having these breasts, but I understand this is not about choice. THIS is what is happening in my body. I'm very grateful that I have this community of men with whom to have this conversation. I don't pretend to understand the breasts held so proudly by the brassiere I'm wearing at the moment, but I certainly can't ignore this reality. In fact, I'm rather smitten with these breasts. I don't even pretend to understand it all
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So right you guys are. Hormones are incredibly powerful. Just think back at puberty how it scrambled our teenage brains. Now I got hit with it again at the age of 60. First it was night sweats. Then came the hot flashes. And then came the severe mood swings. That’s when I decide it was time to see a doctor. So now 4 years later my mood has evened out. Still some periods of a little rage but controllable now. Hot flashed are there but not as bad. Night sweats pretty much gone. But what it left me was boobs and a big butt...lol.sitting for long periods of time use to bother me. Not anymore..lots of padding now...so yes to women’s jeans. They fit. Some men’s jeans fit in the butt but to get that I have to get the waist size up and then they are loose at the waist. The women’s jeans I buy are cut so the waist fits and they flare out from there to accommodate my butt and thighs. It’s a no brainer. If your body changes, ya gotta go with what fits. And just because it’s marked women’s or men’s makes no difference at all. Just clothes that fit and Are comfortable. Believe me I had a hard time with it all to begin with. Thank goodness for my wife that led me in the direction of clothing that worked for me. Like she said men when they get older get skinny legs and flat butts. I have chunky thighs and a big butt now. She says ya gotta love that...lol
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We are all individuals here. We all have had our mammary glands stimulated by elevated levels of estrogen. This is something that we can see. We can also see how some of our hips, thighs, and bottom develope with estrogen and progesterone.
What we can't see is how the same female hormones impact our brains. The pink brain and pink fog is how some have chosen to describe it. It feminizes our brain like it does our bodies. For example, I can say that even being raised male (sort of anyway 😉), I am much more emotional than my wife. I am more apt to cry at a sappy movie scene than my wife. I'm also much more likely to wear a skirt or dress to work than my wife. Maybe it's just my style vs. hers. Maybe it's because I've only been living full-time as a woman for a few years and it's still relatively new to me.
I still feel that we are all different and have had estrogen effect us in different ways physical, emotional, and decision making. I think that based on my own experiences, and maybe being exposed to it as young as I was may have destined my transition to womanhood.
Love you guys 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
Sophie ❤️❣️
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To assume that the hormones that are causing our boobies wont affect our brains is folly.
Of course they will.
But its a bit off to think that you would not have caught me dead two years ago looking at shoes other than anything black, boxy and tactical.
Now I see fashions and shape and style.
Both men's and women's.
mannerisms and even modes of thought in general have altered. its an odd sensation to say the least. some may not be affected by it, others will.
I fall into the latter.
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Folks here know that I don't wear a brassiere all day, every day, as some participants do. I don't have back problems or sensitive nipples that make wearing a brassiere necessary for comfort. But this morning the thought crossed my mind as I meditated on the sofa that it would be comforting to put on a brassiere as I launched my day.
I watched an old video on YouTube last evening... an interview with Dustin Hoffman Inside the Actor's Studio. It was a wonderful show about his amazing career. He was quite emotional at different points in the interview. Eventually they came to Tootsie, a movie about a struggling actor who chose to present himself as a woman in the hopes of getting work. He spoke about development of the movie which came out of a conversation he was having over dinner with the man who became the director. There were family members present and they'd been drinking a bit of wine when the director said to Dustin's father... "there's a woman inside you..." The father resisted the idea but it stayed with Dustin who brought the subject back to his friend... and the movie was created.
I reflected on the "woman inside me" and could hardly argue with that possibility given my affection for putting on a brassiere and admiring MY breasts. So I decided this morning to give my inner woman some quality time with her favorite brassiere. She appreciates the consideration... 8)::) I'm not going to pretend that there isn't a part of me that enjoys the whole journey... breasts, brassieres, women's clothing... and other men talking about it. I think this inner woman first appeared as a teenager and she's been with me the whole journey. She's always loved putting on a brassiere... now she has breasts to FILL the brassiere. She is doubly happy!
(https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.f14c3c4578745f9b9ce6a258b2b39f2e?rik=9WDwGSyGpyLynQ&riu=http%3a%2f%2fwww.dvd-covers.org%2fd%2f79966-3%2f249tootsie_scan_hires.jpg&ehk=SFuCKyLIasyUEQEekOE2p%2b0EsL1WAXeEAuqOIMSbhho%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw&r=0)(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/0d/e8/aa/0de8aa67aad12caa730f8ae4ea9974d4--movie-stars-oscars.jpg)
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I reflected on the "woman inside me" and could hardly argue with that possibility given my affection for putting on a brassiere and admiring MY breasts. So I decided this morning to give my inner woman some quality time with her favorite brassiere. She appreciates the consideration... 8)::) I'm not going to pretend that there isn't a part of me that enjoys the whole journey... breasts, brassieres, women's clothing... and other men talking about it. I think this inner woman first appeared as a teenager and she's been with me the whole journey. She's always loved putting on a brassiere... now she has breasts to FILL the brassiere. She is doubly happy!
I've been mulling over how to reply to this. The whole subject of what you commonly term as 'hormone stew' has been well covered in recent times, as well as 'pink brain', but I don't think the combined subject has run its course yet. I hope I can do this subject justice.
The inner woman is a deeply personal thing. Some of us experience it, and from that, some of us embrace it and some of us reject it. Or should I say her. Some of us have known she was there since teenage years, or even before, and some of us have not known she was there until much later. Some of us have always known she was there but denied her existence and only embrace her now because of their breasts. Or for other reasons. Some of us don't experience her at all, and wear a bra for utilitarian purposes only. Nothing wrong with that. Or any of those scenarios.
I'm only theorizing, but I think that some people only focus on the differences between men and women and conclude that they are poles apart and the lines cannot possibly be blurred, as in binary. Others know that the only difference is a flukey chromosome at conception and that the differences are in essence, trifling. Which brings into question gender identity. Which is a stupid question, really, because it plays to the stereotypical norms of the physical bits you were born with.
[soapbox] Too many people in the world still can't see the difference between sex and gender. In fact it's a lot more nuanced than that. I agree that there are two main genders, based on what is assigned at birth, but in reality who can say what % male and female we actually are? Am I 99% male or 51% male? Maybe John Wayne was only 1% more male than actors eagerly playing female roles, Dustin Hoffman/Robin Williams/John Travolta? Does it matter? Maybe non-binary is the norm and not the exception?
Point is, we all go through life doing the best that we can. If part of that includes feeling good about how we deal with our inner self, regardless what form he/she takes, who cares what that actually involves? 42C, keep wearing your favorite brassiere if it makes you feel good. We should all take a lesson from you; do what feels good, regardless! Five million shades of gray! [/soapbox]
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My doctor, my wife and myself all decided that going on TRT was probably not a good idea for me. So I’m going to live with my imbalance. My doctor told me to buckle up because I was in for a wild emotional and physical ride. And he was right. The journey has been interesting and a little wild and crazy. But with the support of my family and the conversation in this forum with others going through it, it has eased the emotional pain. I’m glad I found this forum. And the reason I game here in the first place because I was considering surgery.
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I have to admit though that the "pink brain" thing may be a bit bigger than i thought.
As time progresses I am starting to look more and more at things from a "different perspective' including politics, food, clothing, outlook, etc.
I am feeling subtle yet obvious changes.
Its odd!
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While I do think there is something to the "Pink Brain" theory, I am also a believer that as you age and have life experiences, that shapes you more than a "Pink Brain". For those of us who deal with gynecomastia and wear bras, we have a more feminine like experience because we deal with many of the same problems women do with their breasts and bras. That, too, shapes our experiences and views on life. I don't think it is abnormal to wonder what "if" if you are already doing something. In my own case, I have found that wearing a layering top over my bra helps smooth any lines under my regular top. It also adds comfort in cold as well as warm weather. I tried many different men's undershirts and didn't find anything that worked due to bulk, heat, other things. A friend suggested I try a woman's layering top since it's designed for that. I was not excited about the thought, but decided to at least try it. The difference was night and day from what I had experienced with men's undershirts. I then ventured into trying cami's for summer and found they worked very well as layering tops, smoothing out the lines but keeping my skin cool under cotton polo tops. I also will wear women's tops on occasion if the cut and color is masculine to give more room in the bust. It's a purely comfort thing being DD/DDD in size since I get tired of feeling the fabric pulled across my breasts and constantly adjusting the top. Sometimes practicality just wins the day.
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I'm with Johndoe1 on this one.
There are many forces at work here forming our thoughts and behaviors. A vast array of hormones and societal pressures are at play also. Age again shapes our thoughts and level of acceptance and or denial in this case. As stated, life experience's are a leading force and factor.
A kind of history buff here. Just read an article about women dressing as men to fight in the civil war. Today women wear trousers to serve without question. Point? Perhaps the answer is right in front of us and we are two dim to see it. Be you. Live, live with purpose without shame. Be the individual you are. Being true to self is the end game friends.
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So if you took a sharpie and marked out women’s and wrote in men’s. Would that make a difference. If a tree fell in the forest and no one is around, does it make a noise?.. i wear lee women’s 100% cotton relaxed fit jeans everyday. You can’t tell the difference between those and men’s. The zipper might be a half inch shorter is all. But the fit is so much better then men’s now. Belief me I have tried them all and probably own them all. If your body changes you have to go with what fits. My wife doesn’t wear the same clothes as 40 years ago. We all change. Emotionally and physically as we age. Some more severe then others. So we need to wear what works for us. This forum is so diverse. I love it. From I’m gettin these things cutoff to ya I can live with them. We are all different, so enjoy that. I enjoy hearing people’s stories and adventures. If we were all the same the world would be a very boring place😃
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Hi Guys 🤗🥰😍
It truly does warm my heart to read about soooooo much positivity here ❣️
We all are who we areand all deserve to be comfortable and happy 🥰🤗❣️ Three years ago, I could never imagine being who I am today. I also would never have imagined having the support that everyone has shown me.
It also makes me feel less alone knowing that I was not the only one who found that there were more clothing options for me in the women's department besides the basic sports bra. Now granted, not all who have gynecomastia even choose to wear a bra and that's ok. We just shouldn't limit our options because an article of clothing that we like and that fits happens to be displayed in ladies department or a women's clothing store.
Please be you, please be kind, and please be happy 🤗🥰😍❤️😄❤️
Love,
Sophie ❤️
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Sophie:
No your not alone in alot of the feelings.
Nor in our continuous journey until we get called home.
two years ago you would not have caught me dead in women's pants. Now I am starting to gear myself to buy only women's pants. They fit and feel better. I have ordered a set of t shorts to see what happens there, and hopefully they will work just fine.
But its not a sexual fetish as some indicated some time back. its again to reiterate, because they fit!
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Hi Guys 🤗🥰😍
It truly does warm my heart to read about soooooo much positivity here ❣️
We all are who we areand all deserve to be comfortable and happy 🥰🤗❣️ Three years ago, I could never imagine being who I am today. I also would never have imagined having the support that everyone has shown me.
It also makes me feel less alone knowing that I was not the only one who found that there were more clothing options for me in the women's department besides the basic sports bra. Now granted, not all who have gynecomastia even choose to wear a bra and that's ok. We just shouldn't limit our options because an article of clothing that we like and that fits happens to be displayed in ladies department or a women's clothing store.
Please be you, please be kind, and please be happy 🤗🥰😍❤️😄❤️
Love,
Sophie ❤️
Quote here from Sophie, and you, confused old man, you are both so right. I love it!
Its all about fit and personal fashion. Period. People have been wearing clothing that fits and expresses themselves for centuries.
I do! You do! So without shame, be.
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I'm with these sentiments 100%.
Would just add that if it is your wish to present as male, it is perfectly possible whilst being completely dressed in women's clothing. I do the only exception in my case in my case is a short skirt instead of shorts in warm weather. It is not effeminate and mainly appears unnoticed.
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Most of you know by now, that my wife, for the past couple years has accepted me as her wife. It has been an incredible experience that has been at least 95% totally wonderful. We actually share everything except bras and shoes and that's just because the size difference. There usually aren't any issues that arise from our mutual wardrobe. However I shared this story with one of my friends, here on the forum.
"Oh, that reminds me. We share most of our clothes. Just not the shoes and the bras. Well she is notorious for running her nylons. She goes and gets a new pair to wear for work. No problem. Well, I'm more likely to buy nylons than her because I am more likely to wear a skirt or dress. She had taken the last pair and hadn't told me. It wasn't that big of a deal except I ended up wearing slacks with knee highs when I had planned on a dress that day. I had to change all of my foundation garments too! We (I) had a little tiff about it but it was no big deal. But all she had to do was say "hey, I'm taking the last new pantyhose, could you stop at Kohls on your way home and get some more?" Simple, right?"
Anyway, I got over it and just stopped by Kohls on my way home and problem solved.
Sophie ❤️
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Wow,
A lot just got said… decades of life experience distilled into wisdom .
All of you in this discussion made a deep dive possible for me.
Memories, forgotten ones, manifesting in living color in quiet moments.
Instantly clarifying thoughts and perceptions so that one feels great for understanding yourself better.
I relate to the group and the opined knowledge. It gives a greater sense of well-being to add to my journey .
Thanks to all
Small update: MRI yields no Stella Turcica to explain elevated Prolactin levels Thyroid is ok so being shunted back to the Urologist.
Gyne growth has subsided Hot flashes have not.FSH,LH are elevated and T is low. Interestingly, E is at Normal upper male levels but the T is very low
T/E ratio is 5.5 to 6.3 definitely out of whack
DEXA scan scheduled and genetic counseling too
And I remain a happy go lucky retiree despite labs
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I, myself, have come to the conclusion that clothing is only labelled a certain gender because society has labeled that. I am not a cross dresser. I don't go around trying to be a certain gender. I am wanting to be comfortable in my appearance and my physical self.
I wear bras. Not because I want to be a woman but because I have a very prominent physical trait, that society has label as "woman"; breasts. For years I let them sag, and bounce and jiggle and sway off my chest because society says men don't wear bras because they don't have breast tissue to support. Eventually, my breast became physically uncomfortable and didn't look all that great either in hindsight. I now wear a garment that is labeled as "women's" to deal with this physical trait for appearance and comfort. My DD size breast have weight. Several pounds worth. They are heavy and a bra takes that weight, and swag, and sag, and bounce and jiggle away. That's not cross dressing, that is necessity.
And not all men's tops will accommodate my developed chest. Some men's tops will pull across my chest in a manner that over extenuates my chest. Some men's button down tops will pull open at the buttons or since men's button downs are not made for a bust, a gaping hole will develop between buttons over the apex of my bust exposing my bra or layering garment because there is no room in the chest area for developed breasts. So a garment labeled as "women" works better since it's designed to accommodate for a bust. This too does not make me a cross dresser.
Due to the same reason of my developed chest, I am finding that some bottoms labeled as "woman" fit my waist/bum better than some bottoms labeled "men". This doesn't make me a cross dresser either.
My wearing of clothing designated as "woman'" has everything to my physical and mental comfort and nothing to do with cross dressing. I believe most men here fall into this same category.
Johndoe1,
Do you find a particular brand of women's garment fits your chest better? Like a women's button down shirt and/or jeans or dress pants?
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Johndoe1,
Do you find a particular brand of women's garment fits your chest better? Like a women's button down shirt and/or jeans or dress pants?
I have found that, like with bras, there is not a single manufacturer that fits better. It's a trial and error thing. But like many women who have an ample chest, blouson tops hide the definition and outline of my breasts, but are very feminine in style and cut and so while extremely comfortable and forgiving on what size my breast are, not very masculine looking. Nothing form fitting works for obvious reasons. I have to find a top that flows but not defines. Bra choice is important as well. A bra with projection and a lot of lift is not what you need unless that is the look you are going for, which can be tough at times when you are DD/DDD because of the amount of breast tissue. I need some lift to keep the girls off my chest but I don't need bullet bra lift. Minimizers work well with a non form fitting polo or button down in an XB size. Depending on the cut, XB sizes work nicely because the extra room in the tummy will drape over the breasts in way that doesn't define the breasts. If you are slim, or small in stature, finding an XB top might be tough. XT will not work because it is a regular cut, just extended for long torsos. I usually will wear a non form fitting polo or non fitted button down with a minimizer bra or bra that doesn't lift alot or shapes too much, more like a tee shirt bra where the girls just sit in the cups and the lift is minimal and not a lot of shaping. Natori or Wacoal bras work well for this and I own a few those brands for that reason. For me personally, there are times when I need a more structured bra because of my size and that gets tricky and that is when l layer or wear a vest or jack to hide the shape and lift of my chest. Like I said, as with women, it is a trial and error thing. A B cup or C cup is much easier to hide than D+ sizes. That is as true for men as women. The fight is real.
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When I'm alone at home, having some private time, I like to confirm to myself the natural estrogen-shaping of my body. I find I'm a size 10 Petite in J. Jill's line of tops. 🤗🥰😍 (I haven't mastered taking a selfie, so in this picture seems I have one breast radically larger than the other. That's definitely not the case. 🥰)
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Top definitely gives a shape to things. Is that braless?
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This is something else that I have started to notice myself, especially the other day, a t shirt I've had for years I wore to the gym and when done I looked in the mirror and discovered that it was fitting like it would on a female.
That was when I realized that the chest shape (not the breasts) but the upper rib cage has softened up a bit.
some aspects are still a bit weird to me, but welcoming at the same time.
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JoniDee do you normally wear a lot of jewelry, particularly necklace type jewelry or you are not interested in jewelry?
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Yeah the gym can be a tricky reality check. I remember the other week walking in and looked to the side in the window walking up to the door and noticing my reflection and seeing my chest sticking out a bit and outward as they’ve grown to be the gym and working out can be a good assessment of how much things have filled in if so compared to day today activity.
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Top definitely gives a shape to things. Is that braless?
Thank you, Dudewithboobs. I'm not braless in this picture, I'm wearing a 36D Fruit of the Loom Cotton wired bra.
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JoniDee do you normally wear a lot of jewelry, particularly necklace type jewelry or you are not interested in jewelry?
Johndoe1, I don't wear any jewelry other than the necklace in this picture. It has special meaning to me: it's actually my two gold birth baby toe rings hanging on a gold chain. I only recently started wearing this necklace.
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Johndoe1, I don't wear any jewelry other than the necklace in this picture. It has special meaning to me: it's actually my two gold birth baby toe rings hanging on a gold chain. I only recently started wearing this necklace.
How cool! Thanks!
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My doctor, my wife and myself all decided that going on TRT was probably not a good idea for me. So I’m going to live with my imbalance. My doctor told me to buckle up because I was in for a wild emotional and physical ride. And he was right. The journey has been interesting and a little wild and crazy. But with the support of my family and the conversation in this forum with others going through it, it has eased the emotional pain. I’m glad I found this forum. And the reason I game here in the first place because I was considering surgery.
This post is a month old, but I jump in. I also think that testosterone replacement tharapy is a problem, especially in older men. The doctors, the pharmacists and the drug companies often make a pretty good deal with it, but undoubtedly there are risks. But this topic is highly controversial. You can find many studies that say TRT is safe, even in older men, but also a lot of studies who warn of it, e.g. here:
Testosterone and prostate cancer risk
(https://prostatecanceruk.org/about-us/news-and-views/2017/11/testosterone-and-prostate-cancer-risk-the-plot-thickens)During TRT the excessive testosterone is converted by the enzyme aromatase in estrogen (especially in men with a lot of abdominal fat) that often enlarges their breasts. And even slim bodybuilders can develop a testosterone induced gynecomastia. So I'd be very careful if a physician suggests TRT.
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My doctor, my wife and myself all decided that going on TRT was probably not a good idea for me. So I’m going to live with my imbalance. My doctor told me to buckle up because I was in for a wild emotional and physical ride. And he was right. The journey has been interesting and a little wild and crazy. But with the support of my family and the conversation in this forum with others going through it, it has eased the emotional pain. I’m glad I found this forum. And the reason I game here in the first place because I was considering surgery.
This post is a month old, but I jump in. I also think that testosterone replacement tharapy is a problem, especially in older men. The doctors, the pharmacists and the drug companies often make a pretty good deal with it, but undoubtedly there are risks. But this topic is highly controversial. You can find many studies that say TRT is safe, even in older men, but also a lot of studies who warn of it, e.g. here:
Testosterone and prostate cancer risk
(https://prostatecanceruk.org/about-us/news-and-views/2017/11/testosterone-and-prostate-cancer-risk-the-plot-thickens)During TRT the excessive testosterone is converted by the enzyme aromatase in estrogen (especially in men with a lot of abdominal fat) that often enlarges their breasts. And even slim bodybuilders can develop a testosterone induced gynecomastia. So I'd be very careful if a physician suggests TRT.
I too was advised to not undergo testosterone TRT. Not only the cancer risk but the real risk of additional breast growth. I had two separate doctors of different specialities advise that. If I can live with the physical as well as mental issues that would be the best recommendation for me. Like many here a lifetime of high estrogen has permanently effected me not only physically but mentally. I am more emotional than most men welling up almost at the drop of a hat. As I have aged I have definitely mellowed to more like a female. TRT isn't going to fix that. TRT isn't going to fix my physical feminization due to a lifetime of estrogen either. Sometimes it's better to leave well enough alone. YMMV
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Exactly. TRT can also cause long term issues if long term using to combat imbalance such as halting natural production of testosterone due to medically intervening and if stopping cause imbalances to occur again as the body tries to naturally supply itself again. And cause other things as everything medical is about dosage and typically it’s awhile before doses are correctly found for the long haul with 2-3 month check ups to see how things are and adjust if needed. Between the obstacles and headaches of it all I’d rather let my body either fix itself or just buckle in for whatever ride it may be.
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In this painfully slow diagnostic process I have tried to anticipate the future course of this process called gynecomastia
Appointments are so spread out that the sequence of them has no meaning. For instance, endocrinologist wants a genetic counseling
evaluation but that is so far out that the next endocrinologist appt occurs before that one. I have been pressing for a more rapid
diagnostic resolution since 2021, spring. Unlike many here my estrogen level is normal but testosterone level is low approaching castrate
level. FSH, LH,Prolactin levels are way up, so the TE ratio is skewed so low it is 5.5 to 6.8 to 1. That’s a 6 to 10 times reduction from where it should be
so gynecomastia is manifesting markedly. By the time we get a cause pinned down I don’t know how big I’ll be.
Currently under bust is 44” and bust is 51”.
There is a lot of movement on stairs, bumpy roads, and at the gym, and while dancing.
Wife and I are trying to find some solutions. She sized and ordered a gynecomastia shirt and I found a sports bra incorporated in a not too feminine shirt for the above activities.
It’s helping but I will probably outgrow the solution soon .
Thanks to all for the ideas and life stories here as it has helped my navigation
during these times of frustration
Bob
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Hello Bob,
I hope that your doctors are able to finally get you an accurate diagnosis.
As far as clothing goes, let your wife help you. She knows what works for bras and tops that will provide you with a inconspicuous look. Believe me, even before my transition I wore a bra for almost 3 decades. It's ok for you to be comfortable and supported. Just because there's an "M " on your driver's license, it doesn't automatically exclude you from enjoying the support, shape, comfort and control that a bra provides.
Be well 🤗🥰
Sophie ❤️
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I do enjoy the support especially when dancing and exercising
I am still losing weight and am reluctant to buy a lot of new clothes
Have lost 75 lbs the last 18 months and plan on 15 more this next year
Hope to have an answer to the hormonal questions by then so I can make some decisions re clothes and lifestyle changes that remain relatively stable. Still under surveillance for colorectal cancer that complicates the clinical picture ( markers remain negative )
Looking forward to dressing and presenting better soon rather than being a potato sack chasing a shrinking silhouette
Like all the encouragement that I find here
Bob
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So a new issue is arising for me.
After researching some information, I am now inclined to try women's shoes that are built for women. There is an anatomical difference and I have had foot problems my whole life and the descriptions of the foot that I read seems to point to me having a more female type foot despite their size.
IMO I think there is more going on biologically with me than i previously thought.
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I have a narrow foot. Small heels. Both Nike and new balance will tell you to try women’s sneakers. It’s really hard to find B widths in men’s shoes now. Years ago I could find them. I wear women’s cowboy boots also. Regular women’s size is men’s B size. Shoe store clerk even when trying to buy boots told me that. So I buy women’s size 11. They fit perfect. No heel slip and a perfect foot bed. Some men’s shoes run narrow. But still not narrow enough for me. Always have had problems with my feet. Now that I have switched to women’s or on that rare occasion can find men’s that fit. My feet are doing much much better as well as my knees.
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you will find that diffeence between womens and mens shoes. I had to go 2 sizes bigger in womens than my mens. I always got mine on zappos and never had a problem with the fit
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I actually have the opposite problem.
I have extraordinarily flat feet, and wide. but my big toe is more prominent in depth. Also I have long had problems of having my feet more flexible and twistable. I have sprained my feet so many times that I have learned to walk certain ways. When running I have sprained both feet very badly with a near fracture of bones in my ankle area.
But the description of how my foot behaves and other aspects tend to make me think that women's shoes may have to be the way to go.
As long as they are actually built for a woman's foot rather than a small sized men's.
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I to have wide feet with a big big toe except I dont have flat feet but do have ankle issues too
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Women's W and WW are men's width. And those are closer in men's sizing. A women's 11WW is the same length as a women's 13M.
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thats what i was wearing except I was weaaring a mens 4 wide
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The standard is two sizes up.
But the core reason is because in women specific construction they take the biology into account and add various paddings and arch supports.
Women have more pronation than men because of the q angle. (Pelvis and leg angle.)
So the arch has a tendency to be somewhat lower than men's but also deeper into the sole than men's. As a result women get more planter fasciitis than men do and the abuse on women's feet is notorious with 4 inch heels.
Women's ankles have a tendency to be more flexible and can twist in wider and more obtuse ways than men. Lending them to sprains and strains under high stress like running.
All of the above has described my overtly large feet.
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my wife has planters and she doesnt wear heels
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Great !
My genetics tests yield no cause . This is good news as we eliminate Von Hippel Lindau syndrome. And a host of other health problems.
Double great ( not really) my endocrinologist is leaving town. Will probably have to start over again with a new one
This will mean a new round of tests ( but not a DEXA scan or MRI or genetic testing) as the data collected this summer is now ‘ old’.
Oh well, isn’t gov’t involvement in health care wonderful. I might get to be 80 by the time this is over. Been at this for 2 years now
Sheeesh
Regards, Bob
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Went to kohl’s the other day and bought a pair of their jeans and walking around browsing got myself some new running shoes also. Seen the women’s dress shoes and thought let me see if they are any different cause my dress shoes always give me discomfort not too quick in to the day. And they definitely were a better fit it felt. But the tops are far too open for my pants to cover to not indicate women’s. Any brands or styles you find are not indicative of being women’s shoes? I was a bit taken back how comfortable my foot was compared to my same shoe in a men’s that I found to try on and compare to. Though the width stuff took a min to find as I figured all shoes were the same lol
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Women’s shoes in standard size is size B in men’s. Women’s wide width is size D in men’s. Men’s size B are harder to find now. Sneaker manufacturers will tell you to go up 1.5 sizes in women’s for a man with a narrow foot. I just bought a pair of women’s sorel boots for the winter that fit really nice. Men’s boots I swim in, and by the end of the day my feet are sore. I have had people in the past say that peoples bodies are different so no one size fits all. So crossing the isle for something that fits makes sense. People that accept their boobs and already wear bras, buying other women’s clothes for the fit seems to be a no brainer. I have been reading past threads of most all the subjects, some have stated that wearing women’s clothes is crossdressing but those same people are wearing bras...uh?😂😂
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Yeah I wear a 10 when I tried on some of the dress shoes in the dept ila 10.5 fit just fine just couldn’t figure out the width so appreciate that lol.
Yeah I was one of those people who vigorously fought the notion of wearing across the aisle. Debates on if it fits better then wear it wasnt on my radar as logical and I’d argue against it or ignore it. And often feel it was just polluting the forum with people entertaining it. And felt bras was ok cause if you have breasts it makes sense but then I guess I just realized that goes for everything. If you have a larger body or bust or arches that aren’t average or whatever then maybe underwear jeans shoes etc makes sense.
I can’t say the same if someone is throwing wigs and makeup on and going to a bar in a sundress like hi my names Chuck lol.
There was someone who argued I felt against me subtly on a post who said now since some are wearing it too it’s suddenly not crossdressing to them now and I felt like expanding your perspective and realizing what may have been opposed makes sense and finding out it works isn’t conforming to something it’s realizing hey these folks were right lol.
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Went to kohl’s the other day and bought a pair of their jeans and walking around browsing got myself some new running shoes also. Seen the women’s dress shoes and thought let me see if they are any different cause my dress shoes always give me discomfort not too quick in to the day. And they definitely were a better fit it felt. But the tops are far too open for my pants to cover to not indicate women’s. Any brands or styles you find are not indicative of being women’s shoes? I was a bit taken back how comfortable my foot was compared to my same shoe in a men’s that I found to try on and compare to. Though the width stuff took a min to find as I figured all shoes were the same lol
Good rule of thumb is women's regular width is 1 1/2 to 2 sizes smaller (and tighter) than regular width men's. Women's wide width and extra wide width are more in line with men's sizes. In either case you need to either try them or measure your foot if buying on line.
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Thanks for the tips. I feel the holiday season gives a lot more room to breathe for the in person purchase of a better shoe option at a kohls or target than a walmart of self check out benefit. I'll probably swing by there agian later today and take a look at some of the unisex style dress shoes they had and try the width. Funny i'm too secure looking for a bra but looking at the shoes i just felt weird and after trouble a few times of trying on and seeing some people pass by i just felt i needed to get going lol.
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The old saying is "necessity is the mother of invention..." which is clearly what we're talking about when we consider crossing the isle into the women's section. My former wife couldn't find corduroy pants in women's clothes but found then in a boy's department. I have very wide feet, so I'll never look in the women's aisle, but it is a great option for men with very narrow or small feet. We talk often about brassieres, of course, and there is only one place to find them... where women shop. Most of us have navigated that process in one way or another. Very often the major impediment is between our ears. That impediment is likely the one that leads men to have surgery rather than consider other options. It is wonderful so many men here are willing to share their experiences walking on the wild side... accepting their breasts and their often curvaceous bodies, then caring for them with healthy choices, including the clothes they wear.
Clearly, one size does not fit all. Even though we are all men, we each have different bodies and therefore will have differing needs. We get to explore it all with men who understand. That is a great gift.
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Thanks for the tips. I feel the holiday season gives a lot more room to breathe for the in person purchase of a better shoe option at a kohls or target than a walmart of self check out benefit. I'll probably swing by there agian later today and take a look at some of the unisex style dress shoes they had and try the width. Funny i'm too secure looking for a bra but looking at the shoes i just felt weird and after trouble a few times of trying on and seeing some people pass by i just felt i needed to get going lol.
once I found the right size i used to buy mine on zappos
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When I walk into a shoe store I start out in the men’s and then go to the women’s side. After the salesperson measures my feet, it is clear to them why I shop in the women’s section because it is hard to find a B width men’s anymore. A standard width women’s shoe is B width in men’s. Now if there is a B width that I can find in men’s, that’s great! I go for the fit, men’s or women’s.
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Sounds like quite the journey! 😅 Hang in there, and here's hoping the new endocrinologist is a good fit. Government healthcare does have its quirks, but let's stay positive – progress is still progress. By the way, I recently came across this (https://trymodest.com) women's clothing store that seems pretty cool. Maybe it'll brighten your day a bit amidst all this medical stuff. Wishing you the best on this path