The Feminisation of Davy:

Yet Another Story of Lingerie and

Corsets

Early the next afternoon Aunt arrived, laden with bags and boxes. At

her direction, I carried part of them to the room she was to occupy and

the rest to my own. By then I thoroughly regretted my bargain with her

but I was determined to stick with it so that they would have no

opportunity to laugh at me.

As soon as Aunt was settled she came to my room and said, "Well Davy,

shall we get started?" My heart sank but I took the dainty silk and

lace chemise she handed me from one of the bags, and going into the

bathroom, I undressed and put it on. Returning to my room I found Aunt

had unpacked most of the bags. My bed was piled high with lingerie,

hosiery, corsets, and other feminine apparel, while in my closet hung a

long row of gowns. Aunt, turning from the closet, saw me and smiling

said, "Davy you look better already. Now lets finish dressing you."

In a short time I was attired in all of the underthings: corset, hose,

bloomers, corset cover, and petticoat and struggling for breath against

the tight lacing. Aunt then took one of the dresses from the closet.

It was of plain black silk, with a narrow skirt draped to a suggestion

of a bustle in back. It had a high choker collar with fine white lace

about it, long narrow sleeves with lace cuffs, and fitted very snugly

about the waist and bosom.

With her help I struggled into it and was initiated into its mysteries

of hooks and eyes and snaps. It was by far the most complicated dress

I had worn. The dress was followed by shoes, wig, powder and rouge,

and lastly a fine emerald rig and cameo brooch.

Thus dressed, Aunt made me look at myself, and again I was surprised at

my feminine appearance. I had to admit to myself that I did not think

the severe black dress was as becoming as those I had worn on previous

occasions.

We went downstairs and I was paraded before Mother and Sue. They were

lavish in their praise. Mother, to my satisfaction, did say that she

thought that the dress was a trifle too severe for my age.

As before it took some time for me to become accustomed to my clothes,

but the afternoon fairly flew by, and before I knew it was time for

bed. Both Mother and Aunt came to my room and amid much laughter on

their part, and embarrassment on mine, helped me undress. When I was

clad only in my chemise, Aunt took from the closet a blue wool wrapper

and a pair of high-heeled mules. Helping me into them she handed me a

much ruffled flowered muslin nightgown and told me to change into it.

I protested that nightgowns weren't part of the bargain but got

nowhere. So for the rest of the week I slept in the dainty gown.

The next morning Aunt woke me and helped me to dress. or rather showed

me how. She felt that I should be able to do it for myself. Lacing my

corset was physically difficult but the rest, except for my hair, was

easy.

Arranging my hair was a long and trying job but Aunt patiently advised

me. Finally I was ready for breakfast dressed in a plain blue and

white cotton morning frock. When we got downstairs Mother complemented

me but chided us for being such slow pokes. She laughed heartily when

I explained that our delay was caused because Aunt had insisted that I

dress myself.

That afternoon Mother and Aunt left on a shopping expedition. They

begged me to accompany them but I steadfastly refused. After their

departure I read for a time, then becoming bored, I wandered about the

house, finally ending up in my own room. There I turned to the closet

and for the first time really examined the dresses hanging there.

There were more than I could possibly wear in a week. Though the

thought of them was embarrassing, there was a tiny tingle of excitement

down my spine.

Realizing that the morning dress I had on would not be appropriate for

dinner, I selected a rather plain dark green satin frock and changed

into it. I also changed to more formal shoes and rearranged my hair as

best I could. Then putting on the emerald ring, I surveyed myself with

satisfaction and went downstairs for the balance of the afternoon.

Mother and Aunt, laden with bags and bundles, arrived just in time for

dinner. Both approved my choice of gowns and hairdo, so I felt justly

proud at having earned this by myself.

The next morning I was dressed in my cotton house frock and downstairs

before the others got up. When they did appear I was given the usual

scrutiny and approved except for my hair. This they said wasn't

perfectly arranged but nonetheless good for a beginner.

After breakfast Aunt told me that she had purchased cloth for a suit

the previous day and asked if I would care to help her make it. I

agreed for time hung heavily on my hands.

Going up to the sewing room with her she unwrapped the bundle and

spreading the cloth out for my inspection said, "There. Don't you

think that will make a pretty suit?" It was a rather heavy

reddish-orange velvet. Indeed I agreed with her that it would make a

very handsome garment.

Then she got out the patter and started to work. I helped as best I

could and for the next few days alternated between seamstress and dress

dummy. In the process I acquired a considerable dexterity with needle

and thread and surprisingly enjoyed it more and more as we progressed.

That day we worked until the middle of the afternoon, when I changed

into a beige wool dress cut on very plain lines with a high neck and

long sleeves. It was trimmed with embroidery of a contrasting color.

After dinner we went for a walk. Over my dress I wore a long plain

black coat, black hat, purse, and gloves. Although I was nervous, the

walk was uneventful and I arrived home well pleased with myself.

By that time I had become quite accustomed to my clothes and felt at

ease while wearing them. Only occasionally did the corset bother me

and at times I actually found myself enjoying the feel of my skirts and

the daintiness and smart appearance of my apparel

The third morning found me attired in a floral print housegown. Soon

after breakfast Aunt and I were once again engrossed in our

dressmaking. Later in the afternoon I changed into the dark blue skirt

and frilly blouse that I had worn the first time Aunt dressed me as a

woman. Our work was well started. The skirt was finished and the

jacket beginning to take shape. Aunt was and extremely careful and

competent seamstress so that the cut and workmanship were excellent

All that day Mother and Aunt had alternately teased and dared me to go

to the theater with them that night. Finally I took the dare and for

the first time I really appeared in public as a woman.

Dinner over we got on our hats and coats and walked to the car line.

As the brightly lighted car stopped for us, I became so panic stricken

that they had to practically carry me into the car. After we were

seated I darted glances at the other passengers in the car. To my

relief none seemed to be paying any attention to me.

It was the same throughout the evening. I was frightened as could be

but my fears were in vain for nothing happened. I was never so

relieved as when we arrived safely home.

When my nerves quieted down I began to feel elated about my experience

and for the first time I realized that I was beginning to enjoy my

novel position. I knew I looked well in feminine attire and the

softness, daintiness, and variety of the clothes appealed to me more

and more.

The next day was much like the preceding ones. I spent the day in a

cotton house frock helping with the sewing. That afternoon I changed

into the blue silk gown I had worn the second time I appeared in

dresses.

By noon of the next day the suit was complete except for such finishing

touches as buttons which Aunt had not yet purchased. That afternoon

she got ready to go downtown to do this necessary shopping. Mother had

other plans so Aunt asked me to go with her. Though my trip to the

theater had immensely helped my confidence, I did not relish the

prospect of a trip in broad daylight. After much urging however I

consented and we started out.

I wore a rather plain light brown suit, its long open jacket had

flaring skirts trimmed with gold braid. The skirt was perfectly plain

and worn with a ruffled white silk blouse with a high neck. I also had

on a brown hat with a heavy veil, brown purse and gloves, and a gold

bracelet.

I was very nervous at first but by the time we were downtown and in the

stores I began to relax. The saleswomen were most polite and seemed to

find nothing unusual about me. One delighted me, and amused Aunt, by

saying, "My Miss, but you wear your clothes nicely."

Aunt shopped with a vengeance. After getting the notions to finish the

suit, she bought a lovely sheer silk blouse with a froth of lace

ruffles down the front. This was followed by a dainty silk and lace

chemise, bloomers, petticoat, hose, a very nice corset, a salmon

colored velvet hat with matching purse and gloves, and finally a pair

of reddish brown high-heeled shoes. I stayed with her the whole time.

Frequently I was embarrassed when the clerks showed me, as well as

Aunt, the dainty apparel. I very much enjoyed the afternoon and

frequently made comments on the things she was considering.

The scope of her purchases amazed me for she already had plenty of

clothes. When I inquired about it she merely said that she wanted an

entirely new outfit to go with the suit.

I was tired and excited when we got home and elated at the good job I

had done with my masquerading. All the nice things I had seen had

opened my eyes to the possibilities a woman has in selecting clothes.

This added to my already awakened interest in things feminine.

The next day the suit was done. It was lovely. The excellence of the

material and workmanship combined to make a very smart garment. At

lunch Mother and Aunt decided that as it was Saturday they would make

an occasion out of our dinner that evening.

About five they sent me upstairs to bathe. When I came back to my

room, in my blue wrapper, Aunt was laying clothes out on my bed. First

she gave me a chemise which was most unusual for it had no shoulder

straps. Putting it on, I found it had elastic about the top of the

bodice to hold it up. Then came the corset. It was very dainty and

much more wasp waisted than the ones I had been wearing. Aunt really

had a struggle to get it laced tight enough but what a wonderful figure

it did give me.

The corset was followed by hose, bloomers, and a petticoat that like

the chemise had no shoulder straps. Aunt then helped me into the

evening gown. It was of a heavy cream colored satin trimmed with bands

of black lace about the skirt and bodice. It had no shoulder straps so

the mystery of the chemise and petticoat were solved. The band of lace

that formed the top of the bodice went around the arm as well forming

and off the shoulder sleeve', rather like the gowns popular before the

Civil War.

Aunt then produced a pair of black silk pumps which were most strange

after the high button shoes I had worn until then. I then sat

patiently while she arranged my hair, placing the knot lower on my neck

than usual, and putting an artificial white flower on each side just

above my ears. Finally she powered my face, neck, arms, and back - put

a string of pearls around my neck, and gave me two rings and a bracelet

to wear.

"There now!", she said, "You're ready for the party. Now run look at

yourself."

I started downstairs to look at myself in the hall mirror when she

called me back and made me put on an extremely long pair of white kid

gloves. They came above my elbows and opened at the wrist in such a

way that I could get my hand out and roll the glove back on my wrist

without taking it off my arm. At her direction I put the bracelet over

the glove. Lastly took a black lace fan she handed me and then went

down while she went in to dress.

Standing before the mirror, I was amazed at my appearance. The full

skirt, narrow waist, and bare shoulders combined to make me look like

some lovely fragile flower. The low hairdo made my shoulders look

softer and narrower while the creamy silk was a most complementary

color. The added touches of fan, gloves, and flowers in my hair were

most helpful. I was so delighted that I laughed to myself as I turned

to view myself from every possible angle.

As I stood there Mother came down and seeing me exclaimed, "Oh Davy!

You're lovely!" Kissing me soundly she continued, "Dear you have no

idea how pretty you are. You make me very proud, for few mothers have

such lovely daughters."

I thanked her for the complement, and then Aunt came down dressed, as

was Mother, in an evening gown. We all stood there admiring our images

and then with their praises ringing in my ears, we went in to dinner.

Though we had to laugh at ourselves for dressing so formally for a Hen

Party, we all had an extremely pleasant evening. At every opportunity

I went out into the hall to look at myself. Each time I did so I

became more enamored with my appearance. When I finally got ready for

bed that evening, I took off my dainty gown with genuine regret.

The next morning I was glad that my week as a woman was nearly over. I

had become accustomed to and even fond of my feminine apparel but I

looked forward to resuming my own clothes that afternoon.

At the breakfast table Mother and Aunt decided to have luncheon

downtown and see a matinee afterwards. I pleaded to be allowed to

resume my own clothes before we started. Aunt reminded me that our

bargain was for a full week which wouldn't be up until late afternoon.

I grouchily agreed and spent the morning in my cotton frock reading and

feeling sorry for myself.

About 11:30 Mother announced that it was time to get ready, so we all

went upstairs. I asked Aunt what I should wear and she replied that

she would decide while I was bathing. I took off my cotton frock and

underthings and putting on the blue wrapper, and went in to bath.

When I returned Aunt handed me a pale pink silk chemise trimmed with

loads of hand sewn ecru lace. I recognized it as the one she had

purchased the afternoon we went shopping together. It was so lovely

that I felt an awful desire to wear it but felt nonetheless that I

shouldn't wear her newest things. I explained this to her but she poo

pood the idea and told me to go ahead and put it on. I didn't wait for

a second invitation. Stepping into the dainty thing, I felt a thrill

as I drew it over my body.

Next came the corset. It also was new and made of flesh colored satin

trimmed with rosettes of blue ribbon. The bloomers matched the chemise

and the petticoat was of heavy white silk with lace trimming and

ruffles around the bottom where it would show occasionally beneath my

skirts.

When I had the lingerie all on, she gave me the dainty ruffled silk

blouse we had purchased and followed this with the skirt to the orange

velvet suit we had made that week. At this I again protested at

wearing her new things. I was hushed and soon had the skirt on and was

buttoning up the new reddish brown shoes while she arranged my hair.

When this was done she powdered my face, gave me two rings and a

bracelet, and fastened a silver broach into the ruffles at my throat.

I then got into the jacket and Aunt placed the matching hat on my heat.

Once it was pinned into place she drew the veil over my face. Lastly

she gave me the matching purse and gloves.

Thrilled with these lovely new clothes I thanked her and added, "Aunt I

love these clothes but I shouldn't be wearing them. What if something

should happen to them?"

"But Davy! You don't understand. They're not my things, they're

yours."

"Mine?", I gasped.

"Why yes, Davy. Didn't you know that I got them as a present to you?"

"Oh Aunt!" I exclaimed, strangely thrilled, "Thank you ever so much but

what will I do with them? I'm through wearing dresses this afternoon."

"Oh don't worry Davy!" she replied with a most enigmatic smile, "I

imagine that you will find some use for them."

I followed her downstairs where Mother was waiting. Seeing me she

exclaimed at my smart appearance and looked at myself in the hall

mirror, I agreed with her. The suit, a lovely color in the latest

fashion, was very becoming and I looked to be a smart and attractive

young woman. I was justifiably proud and doubly so when I thought that

all the lovely things I wore were mine.

As we left the house I was nervous. The silken softness of my

underthings, the tickling of lace, and the swish of my skirts reassured

me and I soon relaxed. Also, the thought of the smartness of my attire

and appearance began to reassert themselves and soon I was bursting

with pride.

We lunched at the smartest place in town. As we were leaving I

received the crowning touch when I heard one woman whisper to another,

"My but that girl in the orange suit is pretty. I wonder who she is?"

Mother and Aunt also heard this and gave me quite a teasing when we

were out of earshot. When the matinee was over we had a light supper

and then went home.

Before we got there my week as a woman was over. With lots of time

left that evening, I felt not the slightest desire to change. My new

clothes so delighted me that I felt that I would never like to be

without them.

As Aunt was leaving in the morning, we stayed up quite late. Just

before we went upstairs she said to me, "Well Davy has the past week

been as bad as you thought it would be?"

Of course I couldn't admit the feelings that were growing within me, so

I said, "Oh a person can get used to anything Aunt."

Both of them laughed at this and Mother said, "Frances, I think he's

beginning to like playing a woman's part and wearing woman's clothing."

"Oh no I don't!" I exclaimed, but gave the lie to myself by blushing at

her penetrating remark.

Mother laughed again saying, "He may fool you Frances but I know him

too well. He's delighted by the clothes you gave him and I don't blame

him a bit for they're lovely and so becoming. I'm very pleased to have

such a lovely daughter, for that's what he really is when he's dressed

as a girl like now. No one would possibly say that Davy sitting over

there in that lovely suit is in any way masculine. In fact I've become

convinced the last few days that nature really made a mistake with

Davy. One thought that he can easily rectify by dressing for his

proper role in life, that of a girl."

Aunt replied in a serious tone, "I agree with you Agnes. Davy must

really be a girl at heart for otherwise he couldn't appear so

completely like one. I've had so much fun the past week with him. I

so hope he won't get stubborn and refuse to wear his new things from

time to time."

"Oh I'm sure he will.", said Mother while I maintained an embarrassed

silence. Then we all went up to bed. As I undressed, I lingered

between each article of clothing. When I went to bed, by choice, I

wore one of Aunts gowns.

When I arose the next morning I longed to put on my new finery.

Realizing that it would be a dead giveaway I put on my own clothes

while regretting that our bargain hadn't been for a month instead of a

week.

Indeed my clothes felt strange particularly the trousers. My skin ,

accustomed to silk, rebelled at their roughness. This sensation passed

and I began to feel natural by the time I got to the breakfast table.

Neither Mother or Aunt made any comment about my appearance.

For the first few days after Aunt's departure everything went smoothly

except that every time I noticed the velvet suit or the drawer full of

lingerie, I felt a tingle down my spine. It wasn't that I wished to

wear them so much as it was a pride of ownership. Oddly, the fact that

they were mine was pleasing out of all proportion.

On several occasions Mother urged me to wear them but I always refused.

I was afraid of their ridicule.

One afternoon while Mother and Sue were out I was wandering about the

house and noticed the velvet suit. No sooner had I seen it than I had

an intense desire to put it on. The thought that I could do so

undetected was too much to resist. So before many minutes had past, I

was undressed and stepping into the chemise.

In time I was dressed, had arranged the wig which Aunt had given me

with the clothes, and was downstairs admiring myself in the mirror. It

was then that I realized that my pride of ownership had really been a

subconscious desire to wear the clothes. A most satisfied feeling

pervaded my very soul.

The rest of the afternoon was delightful. I really didn't do a thing

but the mere fact that I was dressed as a woman made me happy beyond

measure.

I finally changed back to my own clothes just before Mother came in.

In response to her inquiries, I told her that I had spent the afternoon

reading. That evening I was miserable. I missed my dresses so much

that I could hardly stand it. Several times Mother asked me why I was

so restless.

Finally she said, "Davy! What in the world is the matter with you?

You've been getting grouchy and more nervous every day lately. You're

not at all like you were last week." I replied that it was her

imagination.

"No it's not. If you don't cheer up I'll insist that you dress as a

woman again, for you never spoke one sharp word the entire time you

were wearing Frances's things." My heart leaped as I realized this was

a possible excuse to wear my feminine things, but openly I ridiculed

her suggestions.

I woke early the next morning and lay in bed trying to work my courage

up to the point where I could wear my feminine things. I was still to

afraid of ridicule and an expose of my real thoughts. I called myself

all sorts of names but it was in vain. The more I tried the more

despondent I became. When Mother came in to wake me I was in a

terrible mood and quite rude to her.

She became angry and said, "Now look here Davy, I'm not going to stand

for your vile humor anymore. You get right up and put on the clothes

Frances gave you. Perhaps that will make you behave."

Pleased by her tirade, but trying not to show it, I got up and started

to dress without saying a word. My salmon skirt and ruffled blouse

were hardly suitable for that time of day but that really made no

difference. At least I was getting to dress as I wished.

Finally dressed I went down to breakfast. When Mother saw my face she

said, "You don't hate those clothes Davy. If you did they wouldn't

cheer you up the way they do."

I didn't reply but happily sat down and ate to the tune of Sue's

complements. I wore the clothes all day, putting on the jacket at

dinner time. All the while I was so happy that Mother remarked again

and again at my improved disposition. She vowed to treat me in the

same way every time I got out of sorts.

As a matter of policy, I kept cheerful the next day. This avoided

trouble with Mother though I longed for my other clothes.

In the middle of the afternoon Aunt called and asked us for dinner. We

accepted and Mother said, "Frances would be delighted if you would wear

your new clothes." I was torn between fear and desire. Desire won and

later when we left for Aunt's, I wore my salmon suit.

When Aunt saw me she fairly shrieked with pleasure throwing her arms

around me and kissing me veil and all. When we were inside and I had

removed my hat and gloves she took me by both hands and said, "It's so

nice of you to have worn the suit Davy. I'm complemented beyond word."

She was so visibly pleased that I was glad indeed that I had followed

Mothers suggestion.

Just then Martha appeared and I had to stand and undergo her

inspection. I swelled with pride at her complements. Then we sat down

to have a pleasant dinner end evenings visit.

After that evening I felt that I could wear my feminine things more

freely. Though I didn't put them on voluntarily, I did dress as a

woman practically every time Mother or Aunt asked me to. As the

violence of my opposition relaxed they requested with increasing

frequency. Before long hardly a day went by that I didn't wear my

feminine things at some time or other.

One morning as I was helping Mother about the house, wearing my frilly

blouse and salmon skirt, she remarked, "Davy, we're going to have to

get you some more dresses. That nice suit will be ruined if you wear

it for housework." I replied that it wouldn't hurt it and then forgot

all about the matter.

Several times in the next few days Mother and Aunt went downtown

without asking me to accompany them. The following Saturday when we

went to Aunts for dinner, I got a real surprise. When our meal was

over they led me into the parlor and up to a tremendous pile of

packages. "Open them Davy.", Aunt said.

I was completely mystified but at their bidding I took up a box and

opened it. It contained a lovely black wide-brimmed feather trimmed

hat. Still puzzled I said, "It's really nice but why should I be

opening it?"

At that they both laughed and Aunt said, "Why Davy, you silly goose,

those bundles are for you. Agnes and I thought you needed more things.

Now go ahead and open all of them."

This was indeed exciting news and I fairly flew at the pile. Before

long I had them all open and what a wonderful lot of clothes they

revealed. There was a very stylish suit of black silk with a long

bell-bottomed wide sleeved jacket and a white blouse trimmed with loads

of lace. There was also a formal afternoon dress in grayish beige

trimmed with embroidery. To wear outside was a dark brown fur trimmed

coat and narrow brimmed hat. For house work as Mother had suggested

was two cotton house frocks. There was also two complete changes of

lingerie, not as dainty as that I had on but still very nice. With

them was two lovely corsets and lots of hose. For my feet was a pair

of high black shoes and also a pair of beige pumps to match my new

dress as well as two purses with gloves to match. For jewelry I got a

string of pearls, gold bracelet, a lovely topaz ring, and a pair of

gold earrings. There were also such incidental accessories as veils,

hat pins, dainty handkerchiefs, perfume, and powder

The lavishness of these gifts overwhelmed me. There was no longer any

use pretending that I didn't like feminine things. I fairly bubbled

over thanking Mother and Aunt and they seemed just as pleased as me. I

couldn't wait to try on my new things. I took up the black and white

suit and excusing myself went upstairs.

There I took off my salmon suit and slipped into the new one. After

rearranging my hair I went into the full length mirror in Aunts room.

What I saw delighted me for the extremely feminine suit was most

becoming. After admiring myself for a few minutes, I went downstairs,

paused in the hall to gain poise, then swept into the room in my

grandest manner. I stopped in front of Mother and Aunt and gravely

revolved as a model would do in a fashion show. They watched my

pirouette and when I finished and had given them a deep curtsy, they

jumped to their feet with cries of pleasure.

For the next few minutes I was the center of attention. They

complemented me on my appearance and themselves on their good taste in

picking such a becoming outfit. Then someone remembered the jewelry

and in a few moments I had the pearls, bracelet, and ring on. The

earrings required I have my ears pierced. I swore I wouldn't allow it

but secretly resolved to have it done at the first opportunity.

When it came time to go home I packed up as many of the new things as I

could carry. After I hat put on my wide brimmed hat and new coat we

left with Mother carrying more of the new things. It took a long time

for me to get to bed when we did get home, for I lovingly examined each

new article before I put it away.

Rising early the next morning I decided to wear my new things despite

any remark Mother might make about my doing so voluntarily. New

lingerie was followed by new corset, hose, and petticoat, a blue cotton

house frock, and the new black shoes. Just as I finished putting the

final pin in my hair, Mother came in to waken me.

Finding me up and dressed as I was, she was delighted. After chatting

with her for a few moments about my new clothes, she returned to her

room to dress while I went downstairs. Seeing me, Sue was astonished

and wished to know where I had gotten the new dress. I told her about

the gifts I had received and in answer to her questions, started

describing the new dresses.

After a while Mother came down and with a start I realized that I had

been gossiping with Sue like any woman. Despite the anomaly of my

position, I had been discussing corsets, lingerie, and all sorts of

feminine things without any sense of embarrassment or strangeness.

Even more surprisingly, neither Mother or Sue seemed to find anything

queer about the situation.

About ten Mother suggested that we go to church. Agreeing I asked her

what I should wear. She thought for a moment and then said, "Why I

think your new black silk suit would be most appropriate."

Surprised, I questioned, "You think I should wear a dress Mother?

Someone might recognize me."

At that she exclaimed, "Why I'd completely forgotten about you in men's

clothing." She then put me on the spot once and for all by continuing,

"I'm sure you wouldn't be recognized but you do as you like." I felt

that there was a malicious gleam in her eye as she said it but her

facial expression betrayed nothing.

There was nothing I could say to this so I wandered upstairs. Looking

at myself in the mirror, I thought over my predicament. Finally I said

to myself, "If you like to dress as a woman as much as you pretend and

wish to continue it, you'd better do the whole job or quit entirely.

Now which will it be?" As I finished saying that I raised my eyes to

the mirror and for the first time really saw myself for what I appeared

- a handsome, graceful, and vivacious young woman without taint of my

old nondescript masculine self.

My decision was made that instant. Slipping out of my house frock I

put on the silk suit, rearranged my hair, powdered my nose, and put on

my jewelry. Going downstairs I put on my new black hat and arranged

the veil once it was pinned in place. Putting on my gloves and taking

my purse I went in to tell Mother it was time to go.

She gave me an approving glance as she rose but said nothing about my

decision and soon we were on our way.

At church we met several of Mother's and my friends. Mother introduced

me to them as her niece, Davy. This name was only used in private by

my family and no one questioned me or thought it strange. After the

service I found myself entering into the general conversation on the

church steps. Several times I detected approving glances from some of

the men present.

Arriving home we went into the living room where Mother threw her arms

around me and burst into tears. I couldn't imagine what was the matter

until she sobbed, Oh Davy you were absolutely wonderful! I'm so glad

you decided as you did for it makes all the difference in the world in

you."

Her quick intuition had sensed my decision and seen its outward effect

on me. I no longer slinked and tried to hide. Now I walked like a

queen, proud of my beauty, my lovely clothes, and my ability to wear

them.

"But why cry Mother?"

"I can't help it.", she sobbed, "It's just that I'm so happy." Then as

I tried to dry her eyes I astonished myself. I started to cry to,

something I wouldn't have thought possible.

At last we were on a basis of understanding and spent most of the

afternoon discussing my venture into feminine life. I frankly

confessed the ever growing desire. At the same time I admitted the

fear of ridicule that had plagued me ever since the day Aunt first got

me into dresses. She explained how much she liked me in a feminine

role and that I had her complete approval to wear dresses whenever I

wished. It was agreed that I would do as I wished in the matter with

never any ridicule or criticism. The next morning I put on my blue

house frock and spent the time helping Mother about the house. At

lunch she suggested a shopping expedition and I eagerly agreed. I wore

my brown fur trimmed hat with a veil and under my coat the new

embroidery trimmed beige gown.

Our first stop was, as Mother explained, to buy some things I needed.

Our purchases consisted of several dainty silk and lace nightgowns, a

blue velvet feather trimmed negligee, and some mules. Mother consulted

me so much in purchasing them that they were really my selection. I

was delighted at the prospect of wearing these new things. I was also

pleased that Mother would trust my judgment so much in selecting

feminine underthings.

After that we did some incidental shopping and then, at Mothers

suggestion, dropped into a doctor's office where I had my ears pierced.

This was a surprisingly painless operation. To my utter gratification,

not even the doctor noticed anything strange about me.

That evening after undressing I put on the prettiest of the new gowns.

It was pale blue satin trimmed with hand run lace. I then slipped into

the negligee, put on the mules, and replacing the wig took out the pins

and combed the hair down about my shoulders. Then I went to let Mother

see me.

She was delighted and after kissing me said, "Davy you look sweet as

can be. Any man would instantly fall in love with you if he could see

you this way." Even this remark didn't embarrass me as it would have a

few days before. I was acquiring a feminine outlook and attitude

toward life. She and I gossiped while she combed out her hair and then

I went to bed to sleep wonderfully in my dainty gown. All the rest of

the week I wore feminine clothes. By Friday, when we went to the

theater with Frances, my ears were sufficiently healed to wear my new

earrings. During the intermissions I was introduced to several persons

whom I already knew and was proud indeed when I received several

complements on my beige gown. These encounters were always thrilling

and each time I passed inspection my ego was further inflated. For

almost another week I remained in dresses, then one morning decided to

wear my own clothes. They felt horribly coarse and strange.

Surprisingly I even missed my corset. Mother, true to her promise,

didn't say a word. Sue, and late Frances, both expressed their

disapproval in no uncertain terms. Frances, when asked to stay for

dinner, refused unless I changed - so I gave in.

As I was lacing my corset Frances knocked, and coming in said she would

help. I cheerfully agreed for it was always a struggle to lace myself

tight enough. She soon had me pulled in. As I put on my petticoat and

the black and white silk suit, she took up the wig and combed it out.

When I sat down in front of her she had to comb my hair carefully back

to keep it from bulking to large under the tight fitting wig. We wore

our hair long in those days and in addition I had not had a haircut

since embarking on my feminine career. I remarked that I must get it

cut as it was in the way and also uncomfortable under the wig. She

requested that I put it off for a few days as she had an idea. I asked

what it was but only got shushed for my pains.

The next time we went to Frances's, I wore my old favorite and most

becoming outfit, the salmon suit. When we had taken our things off

Frances took me upstairs. She sat me down at the dressing table and

removed my wig. I asked, "Did I do such a horrible job of putting it

up?"

"No Davy. It's not necessary that you wear it any longer. Your own

hair will be long enough with the help of these." And she held up two

switches for my inspection. First she parted my hair from ear to ear,

combing the hair in front of this part forward. She then pinned the

switches into this part and combed them back and down so that they

mixed with my own hair. After fastening it into a long roll across my

neck, she rolled the front part into a pompadour.

Finished, she held a mirror so I could see. It indeed did look nice.

It was in the latest sleek style and ever so much more comfortable than

the bulky wig.

"It looks grand Frances but how can I ever do it that was after I get a

haircut?"

"Oh you mustn't do that!", she exclaimed.

"But I can't go around any longer looking like I do."

"Why I think it looks nice Davy."

"Yes, but what about my other clothes."

"Phoo to them Davy. After I've gone to all the trouble of getting

these switches for you, you can't spoil their use by getting a haircut

just so you can wear your nasty old pants." I dropped the subject at

that time and went down with her.

When Mother saw my new hairdo, she was most complementary and said,

"Now you won't have to worry about being detected with a wig Davy.

Most women wear switches, so it won't make any difference if they are

seen."

I had not realized how uncomfortable my wig had been until that

evening. I was surprised by the cool comfort of this new hair

arrangement. I resolved however to get a haircut the next day but the

next morning the sight of the switches on my bureau challenged me to

try arranging them for myself. So before many minutes I was busy

experimenting with the new hairdo.

Day after day I intended to get a haircut but the thought of a new

hairdo made me defer it to the next day. Also, for more than a month,

I wore nothing but feminine things and that removed much of the

incentive.

During that time I was given a new frock, the basic black silk dress of

the period. It had mutton chop sleeves, a high neck, and a drape

suggestive of a bustle in back. I also talked Frances out of the blue

silk dress with lace trim that I had worn at first. These new dresses

gave me such a selection that I could always dress appropriately for

almost any occasion.

One afternoon I screwed up my courage and dressed in my black gown,

went shopping by myself. It took a lot of fortitude to make my first

purchase but when that obstacle had been passed, I fairly went wild. I

returned home well laden. Mother was both surprised and pleased when I

showed her my new purchases - a lovely pink silk chemise, hosiery, a

new purse, gloves, and a veil.

Finally came the day that marked the real turning point in my life.

Resolved to get the long neglected haircut I waited until Mother was

out. I then changed to my completely unfamiliar masculine attire. It

felt almost as strange as had dresses the first time I wore them.

I had to walk around the house for some time to re-accustom myself. My

skirts, corsets, and high-heeled shoes had completely changed my walk.

I had to force myself to stride rather than take the usual quick short

feminine step.

Finally I felt that I would pass, so taking my dusty hat from the

closet I put it on. At first I thought it had shrunk for it merely

perched on top of my head. Then I thought of my hair and stepped to

the hall mirror.

Looking at myself from the masculine point of view, I realized that I

looked absurd. My hair was impossibly long for a boy. The thought of

the barbers probable reaction was so embarrassing that I fled upstairs

and into the solace of petticoats. When Mother arrived home I asked

her to cut my hair, but she absolutely refused. Angry at her I swore I

would go out and get it cut the next day. Like many of my resolutions,

I never carried it out.

A week or so later I returned from a shopping expedition to find that

all of masculine clothing had been moved to the attic to make room for

my expanding feminine wardrobe. During that week Aunt had given me a

lovely rose lace evening gown with a black velvet cloak lined with rose

satin. Mother had also given me a fine seal coat.

I was delighted with these new clothes and though I immediately wore

the coat, I had to wait some time for an opportunity to wear the gown.

Finally the night came and we were off to the theater. The gown left

my shoulders and arms bare but was cut high enough in the bosom to

conceal my deceptive padding. With it I wore a new pair of gold and

coral earrings and arranged my hair lower on my neck than usual. I

made an attractive picture for both Mother and Aunt gasped when they

first saw me. At the theater I received so many favorable glances that

I thrilled with pride.

Thus the winter fairly flew by and before I knew it I was engrossed

with purchases for my summer wardrobe. Any remnants of desire to

return to a masculine life disappeared at Christmas when I was showered

with clothes and dainty underthings. I became very clothes conscious.

With Aunts help, I developed very good taste, so with all the gifts and

my own increasingly numerous purchases, I became a very chic young

woman. By Spring my hair was so long that I could do with only one

switch and before a year had passed, I dispensed with them entirely.

During the summer we took a trip and were so favorably impressed with

what was destined to become one of California's most fashionable towns,

that we decided to move there. While we were packing, I cut all ties

with the past by giving away all of the masculine attire I had left.

When we arrived at our new home, we purchased a house large enough for

the three of us and settled down to take our part in the life of the

town. It was a happy life indeed and soon we were enmeshed in its

social whirl. At first I had difficulty meeting men from the feminine

point of view but by thought and coaching I soon felt at ease in any

circumstances. In fact I became quite a belle and was given a rush by

several young men.

This was a lot of fun but I had to be constantly on the alert to repel

any amorous advances. This attitude at first seem to make the men more

eager than ever. When they learned it was no mere pose, they settled

down to treating me a good friend which was a most satisfactory basis.

I also made many feminine friends and soon got so that I could hold my

own with the best of them about the most intimate feminine matters.

One day about a year after our arrival Frances came in a most

exasperated mood. She had unable to find any nice underthings in the

shops and remarked that she had a mind to start a decent shop of her

own. At the time this remark didn't make any particular impression on

me but in time the idea became intriguing to both of us.

Soon we were enmeshed in our plans to open a really smart specialty

shop. Most of our friends thought that we were a couple foolish women

destined to fail but despite this we continued our plans. We were

terribly green and had a hard time making the necessary arrangements

and getting our stock together. Finally we were ready and held our

grand opening.

Most of the women we knew dropped in on opening day more from curiosity

than anything else. When they saw the exquisite things we had, we got

nothing but favorable comments.

From the first our effort prospered. In the beginning our lack of

business experience at first kept us from doing as well as we might

have. From our small beginning with nothing but lingerie, hosiery,

handkerchiefs, and veils we slowly branched out, first into corsets,

then hats and veils. Finally we became a complete women's shop.

I learned as we grew and in time even Frances had to admit that my

taste was better than hers. I loved our twice yearly shopping trips to

the East and could hardly resist keeping for myself most of the lovely

gowns and accessories we purchased for the shop. As it was I soon

became the best dressed woman in town and the more gowns I had the more

I wanted.

Thus the years have rolled by. I am now middle age but still chic

looking. I never think of myself as a man and the thought of wearing

men's clothes is abhorrent. I am very happy in my feminine role and

ask nothing more.

The End