Hi: I'm a csi genetic girl, reading the forums in order learn as much as I can to support a MtF friend who has been on HRT for the last 6 months after 40 years of being stuck in a man's body. I noticed this thread was mostly trans women offering opinions on passing. I don't know if anyone would be interested in the opinions or input from a csi girl, but I'd be happy to offer respectful, helpful opinions/advice from the perspective of a gg or even answer questions. Which may or may not be welcome, idk. Sadly, many csi girls only care what "men" think of their looks so maybe many of you have more useful opinions than I do, at least the trans-women who identify as lesbian/find women sexually attractive.
I only decided to post after weeks of reading because I thought the difference of opinions in some cases was interesting. It seems some GID /transwomen seemed conflate passing with sex appeal, whereas as a straight girl I don't look at the "sex appeal" aspect just what I see as female or feminine. (which isn't ultra-femme or girly).
I've found it very interesting in some threads here where pre-HRT transwomen are questioning whether they can transition or not based entirely on a fear of being "ugly" or not fitting the criteria of a woman. It's a terrible reality that women, far more than men, get judged on their looks so making the jump can be scary if you want to fit the definition of a "woman" that men (both straight and gay) have created in the media and popular culture. Funny that so much of what is a "woman" or what is "feminine beauty" isn't defined by us, but by men.
If my input isn't welcome and this is a trans only thread I TOTALLY understand and will not make a peep. I've just been learning so much and find you all so amazing and courageous that I wanted to try and offer something useful back. I'd be proud to call any of you one of my sisters and all of you are beautiful in your own way.
P.S. Please correct me if I use incorrect pro-nouns or labels, I'm learning as much as I can and always want to be respectful but I'm sure I'll make mistakes and the last thing I want to do is offend or hurt anyone's feelings.