The Happy Feats of HappyFeat

[scrappycoco]

I can say I love the look of the skirt myself but the others look good too. Well done.

[stefan]

My personal favourite is the skirts look. Keep it up. Sounds like you had a fun week.

[JeffB]

Yo, HF! Bravo to you on your latest exploits! And your outfits were great as usual. Of course, my favorite was pic #4! The sweater/skirt/tights/boots combo was terrific! And your outing in said outfit sounded like a really good time! Two thumbs up!

[Thighbootguy]

I like the skinny jeans and black Steve Madden "Stretch Out" boots, picture #2. Red and black are great holiday colors. Just imagine adding a white beard, a wide black belt with a big buckle, and saying “Ho Ho Ho”. (Sorry about that) Are these pictures from your new house? I really appreciate the character of older homes.

[Mr. X]

they all look good Happy but 1 and 3 stood out for me.

[HappyFeat]

Are these pictures from your new house? I really appreciate the character of older homes.

Yes they are! In fact, most of the pictures taken since August (with a couple of exceptions) have been in my new house. I have yet to get a "studio" set up, so the entry hall and front door (with the horrible curtains from the previous owner) have been my backdrop. Currently, I have the attic and second floor gutted and have been waiting on some help to get the ceilings in the rooms. I can do most of the stuff myself, but dry-walling ceilings is more than a one man job. I have thought about taking some pictures in the empty rooms (construction site) as a backdrop, but we will see...Thanks for asking!

Typically, I like to wait to post several outings at one time, but the last two days have been pretty remarkable, so I didn't want to wait to share them. Thinking about them, there were some real high points, but nothing too out of the ordinary. My outfits were OK, but not the best I have ever put together, I did pretty typical things, and it was very (read VERY) cold. What made them remarkable was how I felt, which is tough to convey in writing. But I really want to give it a try!

Monday January 4, 2010 - It had been a few weeks since I had a chance to get out in heels. The weather was not good, the holidays were nice but chaotic, and I had a bit of a nasty cold, so I was not able to make any rounds. Even though the weather was even worse (temperatures in the 20's F and a lot of lake effect snow) I had to get out again. I wore a fairly simple outfit - an oatmeal Gap sweater, Limited 917 bootcut jeans, black tights, and red Nine West "New Dealer" ankle boots. With my red boots exposed to the world, I headed out.

My first stop was my bank to check the damage Christmas did to my back account. With all of the ATM withdraws, I had lost count. The results were as bad as I suspected. Anyway, the tellers were very nice, we chatted about their New Year's Eves (I stayed in with my girlfriend - yes its official HF may be settling down) and the weather. No mention about my boots, though when I was leaving I looked back and saw all three of them rubbernecking for a better look.

Next I was on to the South Hills mall. I had a coupon for $25 off a $50 purchase from December when I bought my skinny jeans and this was the first day that I could use it. When I was in before, there was a gray, knit, turtleneck sweater dress that I truly loved. However, it was marked $60 and I couldn't justify the purchase at the time. I even tried it on and loved it. When I found it, they only had a large (I wanted the XL) but it was marked down to $30! To make the other $20, I found a pair of 312 bootcut jeans and a pair of black ankle length chinos. I asked the clerk - a very hip older lady wearing a black jumper dress, tights, and great boots if I could try them. Without hesitation, she took me to a dressing room. The large dress fit nicely, though a bit snug. I didn't care I was buying it. I also bough the jeans and the chinos, and with my coupon I got it all for $30! I chatted with the clerk, who was very supportive and courteous and headed on.

My next stop was Macy's. Though I have sworn off buying shoes at Macy's, it is still fun to look. The clerk there went in the back to look for any size 11 heels that were designated for the clearance rack and brought out a few for me to try. Just as in The Limited, I got a few initial shock reactions from people, but after they saw a guy trying on shoes, they more or less went about their business. I have taken to looking people in they eye if I catch them staring too long and saying hello. I only do this occasionally, because most of the time I simply am doing what I came to do. Let'em stare I say! Macy's really didn't have anything I liked, but I did head to the hosiery section to get another pair of the HUE body shaping nylons - this time in an ivory shade. The service was less than to be desired, and I did get a strange reaction from the clerk checking me out. But I got my nylons, which was what I went for anyway.

After Macy's I went to Aldo, where the manager was happy to see me. She went in the back and brought out all 4 pair of 11's they had in stock without even me even as much as asking. The store began to fill up while I was there and again customers looked, saw me, got over it, and went about their business. I was really tempted to but a pair of silver evening sandals complete with rhinestones, but my better senses prevailed. They just looked so damn good on my feet. The manager even drought me a matching clutch and was giving me ideas on where I could wear them. I almost said that I would wear them when we went out to dinner (a tribute to kneehighs), but I am trying to be a committed man right now. Besides she might have agreed and I would be out $75 for the shoes and the clutch...

I strolled the mall a bit more, getting lots of looks, giggles, etc. I went to JCrew and Banana Republic, but their clearance isn't my idea of clearance. At Ann Taylor, I really wanted to a pair of black slim fit jeans, marked down to $15, but the clerk didn't think that it would be OK for me to try them. The store was busy, but if I can't try it there, I am not buying it there. Plain and simple.

After the mall, I went to the Galleria, a shopping center about a mile away. I had a bowl of mac and cheese at Panerra Bread - which I found exciting on such a miserable day - though $5 for mac and cheese is CRIMINAL. I got a lot of attention from other customers. I set next to these two women who were both wearing pumps without hosiery, which I found amazing. They both looked at my boots and reacted with shock, but not as much as I did thinking about shoving a bare foot into a thin shoe when the ground is covered by snow. I did walkabout the restaurant to refill my drink, go to the restroom, etc. to give as many people a closeup look at my boots as wanted it.

My final stop of the day was a consignment store called the Avalon Exchange. I know that there are more than one of these stores in Pittsburgh, so for all I know its a national thing. They sell fairly good labels and even come couture stuff. I did try on a pair of barely worn Jimmy Choo slides, but there wasn't much in my size since the store tends to cater to young women. Again, I did draw my fair share of attention from the staff and customers. When I was walking back to my car, this guy with like 4 teeth gave me a very nasty look. It made me think that this is they guy everybody is worried about when they are so concerned about what "society" thinks. Lowest common denominator is simply another word for society.

All in all Monday was great because I spent nearly 6 hours out and about - or only slightly longer than it will take to read this post...

Tuesday January 5, 2010 - Again, snow and cold. It is as if I am living on the set of "The Road," which I guess I am since a lot of it was shot not far from me. And I think I saw one of the cannibal guys the day before. For my outing, I wore a burnt orange Izod sweater, the black ankle length chinos that I bought at The Limited the day before, and my Enzo Angiolini "King" lace-up boots. The pants were short enough that they gave a great view of the boots, which I have yet to wear covered in any way.

I started by going to the South Side Works, a trendy shopping area where there is a Steve Madden store and a Nine West retail store. I had to park fairly far away, but the walk was nice. Since it was windy, most people walk with their heads down. When I passed them, they would get a full look at my boots, then look up. I would then speak to them or wink, always with a smile. Sometimes they smiled back. At Steve Madden, I trued a couple pair of pumps in an 11, of course they were too small. The clerk was helpful and didn't even bat an eyelash while helping me.

At Nine West, I tried several pair. A very helpful young woman wearing cute boots and fantastic lilac lace tight (that I made sure to complement her on) brought me half a dozen pair to try. When I went into the store there were no customers, but while I was there about 15 people came in and it became very crowded. My favorite interaction was a woman shopping with a young girl, possibly grandmother and granddaughter. The older woman kept pushing the younger woman toward a pair of shoes that I was trying at the time. They were fairly conservative and I wouldn't think a teen would have liked them, but I could hear the grandmother say that look how good they look on him, his shoes are great, etc. When I was closer I interjected that they were also quite comfortable and could be worn with a lot of outfits. The grandmother reacted quite well - the younger woman was not impressed. I did but a pair of pointy toe d'orssay style pumps with a 2 inch heel - on sale for $20.

After Nine West, I wandered around the other storefronts - all of them either target toward people with more money than brains or twenty somethings. When I passed the last store and had to turn around, the clerks in a juniors store (one male one female) saw me. When I passed again they were at the window checking me out. I thought about going in, but something remarkable happened. A car slows down, and a large African Amrican gentleman rolls down his window. He says to me "I have so much respect for you and what you are doing!" I thanked him and he drove off. Now that's a positive reaction!

I headed to another shopping area called the Waterfront. There I browsed Macy's, but really only to warm up and use the restroom. I visited Lane Bryant, but even though they were having a big sale I think I have moved past the LB phase. I went into Ulta to see if I could get a makeup consultation, but there was nobody in the front of the store. Finally, I headed to Ann Taylor to see if I could get better service at this store. The clerk who helped me, again an older lady, let me use the dressing room. I did get two pair of the slim fit jeans - one in black and one in gray. She was very open minded and treated me very well. While I was shopping, a young woman followed me around with her cell phone. I am beginning to think cell phone cameras should be outlawed. But I made it very difficult for her to get her picture. If she asked I would pose, but I hate all of the sneaking around already! When I check out the clerk told me to come back and that I should feel comfortable in the store. Quite the contrast from the Ann Taylor the day before.

My final stop for the day was the grocery store. I didn't even hesitate to stop, not that I hesitate much any more. For me, I know now that I have reached a point where I simply don't care how people react or what they think. I did my business, even chatted with the woman behind me in line at the checkout. However, another person with a cell camera wandered by. I think in the future, I am going to say something when people do that...Look for me somewhere on the Web, I guess.

Those were my first outings of 2010! I will be getting out more this week, though I have met my fashion budget for the month. Anyway, like I said these outings were remarkable in how I felt. Is it possible that heeling is the path to enlightenment?

[kneehighs]

... I could hear the grandmother say that look how good they look on him, his shoes are great, etc....

Love. Nothing beats the feeling of inspiring women with your outfits. When I have a girl look at me and want to wear the same outfit as me, that's fulfilling.

but something remarkable happened. A car slows down, and a large African Amrican gentleman rolls down his window. He says to me "I have so much respect for you and what you are doing!" I thanked him and he drove off. Now that's a positive reaction!

That is awesome. Thanks for the tribute comment.

[cas]

"I have so much respect for you and what you are doing" and I agree with that text... really cool.

[JeffB]

When I passed again they were at the window checking me out. I thought about going in, but something remarkable happened. A car slows down, and a large African Amrican gentleman rolls down his window. He says to me "I have so much respect for you and what you are doing!" I thanked him and he drove off. Now that's a positive reaction!

Hmm! Maybe that was the same fellow who complimented me on my long denim skirt back on Veteran's Day. HA!

However, another person with a cell camera wandered by. I think in the future, I am going to say something when people do that...

Perhaps say, "Make sure you get my good side!" Heh!

Anyway, like I said these outings were remarkable in how I felt. Is it possible that heeling is the path to enlightenment?

Well, enlightenment comes in many ways and many forms to many people. If that works for you, then, by all means, sit back and enjoy!

[scrappycoco]

I just want to say you are just such an insperation to me and i'm sure alot of other's here. Keep up the heeling and good luck.

[HappyFeat]

Here are the rest of my outings from last week...

Wednesday January 6, 2010 - Though it was still bone chilling cold, I really wanted to go out in a skirt. I wore white turtleneck sweater, black Lane Bryant slightly below the knee skirt, black opaque tights, and an old pair of (cheap) Areoslole boots that I forgot I still had. This is the first pair of tall boots that I ever bought and they do have a bit of tread on the soles for the slick sidewalks.

My plan for the day was to visit a couple of consignment stores, including the one where I consign some stuff. My first stop was one that opened before the holidays were I had a wonderful interaction with the owner - a cosmopolitan, petite, women in her 30's. Of course, she wasn't in when I stopped, but I did chat a bit with a couple of the women working and tried on a pair of tan leather pants. Though I didn't buy them, I may go back and get them later.

Next, I stopped at the store where I consign, but it was closed for the week, so I didn't get to visit the owner there either. I headed on to the outlets where I went to Lane Bryant and Nine West. LB just never has anything I really like anymore, and at Nine West I tried on some shoes and chatted with the employees more than anything else. I hit the Banana Republic outlet where every clerk working came by to see if I needed help, but seemed to be just checking me out. They were all very friendly however.

Finally, I stopped by one last consignment store. I tried on a leather skirt there which was way too small. The staff was nice, but really didn't pay me much attention.

Thursday January 7, 2010 - Though it wasn't a true "high heel" outfit, I really like the "freestyle" look of my first Thursday outfit. I wore a black turtleneck under a Rue 21 gray and black pullover, my black Ann Taylor slim fit jeans, black patterned tights and Nine West "Salty Sea" loafers with a 1 inch block heel. They are quite low cut and with the slim jeans, the entire shoe is exposed and shows the pattern of my tights quite well.

My first stop was to the bank. I had lost my ATM card the day before while out skirting and needed to cancel it and order a new one. I have been going to this branch for a few months now, and always in heels. The tellers are very nice and I think expect to see me in something exotic. Well, since I had all of this business to do, I was in the bank for a while. The teller I was working with recited my "pending" charges - Ann Taylor, Nine West, and Nine West Online and of course I said they were all my charges. She gave me a temporary card and said that I could only use it in ATMs. I said that I had done too much shopping as it is. Then I started talking to all of the women working about shopping. I told them that I bought my jeans at Ann Taylor for $15 and about some of my other sales. The never batted an eyelash as they shared shopping stories and even asked me if I owned a pair of Uggs to wear with my slim jeans. It was a great deal of fun and I am pretty sure that everybody is cool with a guy in heels.

Afterward, I went to Starbucks and relaxed. I read some in a wingback chair, drank a grande cocoa and listened to music. I sat next to a cute young woman who was reading as well and had brief interactions with her and a couple other customers. It was a nice way to spend the afternoon.

While at Starbucks, I got a call reminding me of my pedicure appointment that afternoon. Since tights make it difficult to get to my feet, I went home to changes. I put on a pair of brown footless tights, my Limited 917 bootcut jeans, and decided that even in the cold and the snow, I was going to wear heels to the appointment! I had chatted with the stylist about heels on numerous occasions, but I thought I would let her see me in them. I chose an understated pair of Bandolino "MacDougal" loafers in brown patent...block heel, safe for wearing to cross the street, but still obviously heels.

She noticed immediately, of course, saying how cute they are and that I will "break my neck" wearing them. We chatted about clothes, etc. and she was pretty cool with the whole thing. Of course it was too cold for flip-flops, so I sat in the salon for over an hour waiting for my nails to dry. She cam out an put my shoes on me, again saying that she can't beleive I wore heels in the weather we were having.

Friday January 8, 2010 - I didn't think I was going to have time to go out on Friday, but I finished my work early, and threw together a fairly nice outfit. I wore a brown Chaps sweater, brown Lane Braynt "Houston" dress trousers, and brown Franco Sarto "Mill" boots, with a small heel. I returned to Starbucks from the day before. Again, I read and had a cocoa. I chatted breifly with a woman about my age and even flirted with a woman in a sweater, dress slicks and square toe, block heels boots. She said that she bought them a Sacks last winter, but alas made no mention of mine.

Well, there you have it...my last four outings! I thought about going out today, but I am just sick of the cold! Maybe tomorrow....

[danielp6406]

Greetings HappyFeat :-)

Great outings wearing shoes despite the cold weather.

Lucky for you the women at the pedicure put back your shoes for you !

Wondering if my girl at the pedicure would do the same for me if I wear shoes ?

Did not have a chance to try it since I only go there in the summer wearing gladiator sandals.

(I guess it would be too hard for her to put the strap in the proper hole...)

Maybe next time I wil try wearing regular shoes instead of sandals and see what happens .

My choice this time is for outfit # 1 and # 2. Again,well done !

[Bootking]

First outing, Door #1 with the red boots, 2nd outing, grey striped top with the pumps!!

Way to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[JeffB]

Yo, HappyFeat! Great pics all! I'm sure you're probably tired of hearing this from me, but your fine sense of style shines through yet again. And since I'm so predictable, I'm sure you know I've leaned towards pic #1 as my fave of the bunch. Your outing reminded me of last year around this time when I wore a short skirt and boots on a bitterly cold day. BBRRRRR! And then some!

[RonC]

Nice outings, HF. I personally like Outfit #3 with the heeled loafers and flaired jeans. I think that look, with a pair of trouser socks, would be hardly noticable in most places. I am curoius as to where you may be headed, however. You've been wearing skirts quite abit, and have discussed getting make-up done a few times. Are you thinking of going the full cross-dress route in the future? While I am not in your league when it comes to heeling, I always thought that if I really wanted to be out in public in heels, and I mean feminine heels now, that I would feel more comfortable doing it in a full feminine appearance (though I certainly don't make a good looking female based on a few Haloween outings that I've had!...lol). So I just curious where you think you are headed. And I take it the new love in your life is fully aware of your clothing preferences? Tell me to mind my own business if I'm being just too damn nosy! I would certainly have that coming after asking such personal questions! But damn, I am curious yellow!

[Dawn HH]

Happyfeat:-) I was suitably impressed with outfit #1and #2. Great looking pics from you. Keep up the good work. Cheers--- Dawn HH

[HappyFeat]

snip...

Lucky for you the women at the pedicure put back your shoes for you !

Wondering if my girl at the pedicure would do the same for me if I wear shoes ?

...snip

Actually, she is the first stylist to put my shoes on for me. She is very conscientious about her work and hats when the paint gets chipped or smeared prematurely. Typically I wear flip-flops, so she always offers to put them on for me. As far as your stylist, all you can do is ask!

snip...

I am curoius as to where you may be headed, however. You've been wearing skirts quite abit, and have discussed getting make-up done a few times. Are you thinking of going the full cross-dress route in the future? While I am not in your league when it comes to heeling, I always thought that if I really wanted to be out in public in heels, and I mean feminine heels now, that I would feel more comfortable doing it in a full feminine appearance (though I certainly don't make a good looking female based on a few Haloween outings that I've had!...lol). So I just curious where you think you are headed. And I take it the new love in your life is fully aware of your clothing preferences?

Tell me to mind my own business if I'm being just too damn nosy! I would certainly have that coming after asking such personal questions! But damn, I am curious yellow!

No why would I tell you to mind your own business? I do post things here for people to read to not only share my experiences, but to aid my evolution as a freestyler/heeler/etc. That being said, people just need to ask the right questions.

It is not my intention ever to go out in full female mode. I love being a guy and have no desire to pass for anything other than a guy. I do love seeing how far I can go and love to try new things, so I am always trying to expand my experiences. I could never pass anyway, since I do keep my facial hair all the time and being a large man, it just doesn't seem practical. In a few occasions, I have been approached by people about performing in a drag show from time to time, but that would be more about playing a role anyway - at least for me. Though I have been tempted, I have never seriously considered it seriously. I do think it would be fun to get my makeup done just for the experience, just as I do other things like getting full-color pedicures.

And yes, the love of my life does know about my tendencies. On occasion, I have worn a skirt around the house with her, she washes my tights and borrows my kneehighs. We have gone shopping together and even shared a dressing room on occasion. I have even worn heels with her when we have gone out. However, I haven't shared this Web site with her mainly because of the sorted details I have shared. She is a bit jealous, even of things I did prior to the start of our relationship. I do hate keeping secrets, but I have been rather open here...

Hope that answers your question. Please don't ever be afraid to ask anything - I don't mind answering.

Now on with the outings/outfits:

Tuesday January 12 - After work I decided to stop in a Starbucks to do a little computer work. My outfit was simple - wool blazer, gray/blue turtleneck sweater, Ann Taylor slim fit jeans, Nine West ankle boots with a block heel. I sat at a table next to a couple of women in business suits - both wearing nice shoes who both kept glancing my way. AN older couple next to me (the guy was rather uncooth) were having a heated argument (even in hushed tones) and he shot me a very strange look when I left. Afterward, I went to Barnes and Nobel where I sat in an easy chair and read a book. When I went to the restroom one of the clerks was wearing killer red pumps - patent, platfotm, stiletto - so I made a point to complement her on her shoes. She thanked me with a big smile. Later she kept walking by me and I always took note, exchanging a few positive glances. The bad part of the outing was I lost the heel tips on both boots and I am deciding whether to get them repaired or not.

Thursday January 14 - Another brief outing after work. I wore a gray wool blazer, burgundy Claiborne pull-over, Limited 917 slim jeans, burgundy knee high stockings, and black Nine West "Appaladay" loafers with a small stiletto heel. The bank tellers are very aware of my heels, and though they e=never mention them, they are accepting. The transactions went smoothly and I chatted with the for a short time. Next, I went to Starbucks near my house that I am going to try to visit regularly in heels. I did get a couple of looks, but nothing happened beyond that.

Tuesday January 18 - Another visit to Starbucks near my house. I wore a brown corduroy blazer, Claiborne turtleneck sweater, Limited 917 boot cut jeans, and brown oil skin Nine West "Geranium" loafers. I did get a look or two from an older woman who eventually struck up a conversation about the book I was reading. I exchanged glances with a woman in a nice business pants suit and boots a couple of time while she waited for her order. Later a couple of older guys sat down across from me and talked a few decibels too loud, but I finished my drink and headed home.

Thursday January 20 - My skirt outing for the week! I went short, very short for me. The weather had warmed up a bit, so I decided what the hay. I wore a Ralph Lauren cable knit sweater with brown suede patches on the elbows, a denim miniskirt, brown tights, and brown Nine West Mary Jane pumps. I planned on doing a bit of shopping, but my main consignment store was my only stop for the day. The first highlight of the visit was meeting a woman in the shoe section. She noticed me pull down a pair of snakeskin boots and told me she thought they were fabulous. She watched me try them on and told me they looked even better on. I wound up buying them for $6, a Payless brand I think. I found a couple pairs for her and she tried them on. We talked about shoes, styles we liked, etc.

After she left, I talked to the owner. She was telling me how she was so amazed that in my last visit, I talked to everybody in the store. She said that at first she was worried that people would be rude to me, but she said that every time I came in people were drawn to me. I found a couple of cool items like a long top that would go great with leggings and a brown dress that I am waiting to come down in price. I modeled the dress and spent over an hour wearing it while the owner accessorized it and found other things to go with it. I did look fabulous in it, I must say. The owner and her assistant (a teenage old girl, who was having too much fun) kept telling me how great my legs are. I also got a set of faux pearls for $4 that I may play with as well. Way too much fun!

Friday January 21 - I "stolen" outing for me. I really didn't think I would have a chance to get out, but as luck will have it, I got to put on heels. I wore a brown turtleneck sweater, brown Ann Taylor gauchos, brown tights, and brown Nine West "Gaffer" pumps. I went to a consignment store that opened about six weeks ago near my home. The manager there is fast becoming another person who I love to visit. She is a petite brunette with great style and a thing for sexy flats, skirts, and high end tights. I bought a pair of suede leather jeans and a satin skirt in brown. There is another pair of leather pants that I may go back and get. I tried on a silk Talbots dress with a jacket, that was still a bit pricey, but I did look good in it. I may get it. After checking out, I chatted with the manager and clerk for over an hour. They both loved my shoes and the clerk brought me a pair of Dolce and Gabana clogs that are just a bit small. However for $20, I may need to get those as well. Again, another wonderful experience. Just a lot of fun...

The pictures are of my outfits. The last two, I took advantage of a couple pieces of drywall setting near where I take my pictures to make a "backdrop." When I do my studio, I may just have to make a drywall backdrop...

[Bubba136]

Wonderfully arranged, as always. I particularly like the first outfit and the last one. Thanks for the reports and pictures.

[NH Heels]

I like #1 personally. Nice boots and overall look.

[Mr. X]

More great outings for you. Well done. I definitely like #1 the best.

[RonC]

HappyFeat, thanks for the straight-forward reply. You are quite incredible in my book. I only wish I had the intestinal fortitude to try what you are doing. I would love to go walk around the mall in a nice pair of stilettos, but alas, my fears are much too great for that. Hope you and the new lady get on well, and that she accepts your style! It's good to know that I can ask about any question (though some likely wouldn't get an answer...lol!). I hope you keep posting pictures, as that is what I enjoy seeing the most!

[heelaphile]

HappyFeat, always a fan of your outings! I used to be on this site as shoelover80 and then left for a little bit. Well, I'm back now! Look forward to reading more of your posts! heelaphile aka "May"

[Dawn HH]

Happyfeat:-) Great outfits as usual, but the first pic and the last pic impressed me more. Cheers--- Dawn HH

[danielp6406]

Greetings HappyFeat :-)

I don't know if I will have the courage to ask my stylist...Will see next summer !

Again, well done with your outings and outfits !

I like the outfit in picture # 1: Specially the boots. They are very nice ! (and my style too !)

Picture # 4: I could not imagine myself wearing skirts in public.

You wear them with ease and now you wear them shorter and shorter.

I must say you got a lot of ..... to wear such a short skirt in public !

Maybe next time you may want to wear your mini skirt with OTK boots ?

I'm impressed...

[Thighbootguy]

All the looks are good but there is and aspect that bothers me particularly on #4, the skirt. To me, the look just seems out of proportion, especially with the elbow patches (they draw my eye down and emphasize the missing waist line.) A long top with leggings may be designed to not have a waist and get away with it, but a skirt should have one.

As a suggestion I offer this site on Proportions of the Human Figure (This is a site for artist and there are nude models. If that is offensive to you, don’t go there.) If you keep clicking on the next button you will see lots of examples of where the female waist is placed in comparison the male waist.

I think the most successful example of a guy wearing a skirt on out site has been JeffB’s business suit and http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r96/JeffCB2006/longskirtandboots-1.jpg'> long skirt with a wide belt because both of them raised his waist line a bit. (By the way, I had to go to page 2 to find Jeff’s thread… slacker.) Your look on http://www.hhplace.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=5889&d=1236870190'> 90310_outfit.jpg and 090311_outfit.jpg has a higher waist (and I’m sure there are others).

The looks you have been able to present are far better than any efforts I have made so maybe I shouldn’t be critical. Please take my observations as well intended.

[HappyFeat]

Ahh...I was wondering when somebody was going to say something about the skirt picture. Here were the three things I knew when I put together the outfit: 1) the skirt was way too short, 2) the sweater is not in style (with the elbow patches at least, and 3) I was taking a big risk wearing it with pumps instead of boots. Thighbootguy, I thank you for your feedback. You are welcome to post constructive criticism (and I agree whole heartedly that JeffB is a slacker). Seriously, your suggestions are well taken and quite helpful (though the link to the site doesn't seem to work) and you gave options and alternatives. This is exactly why I post here. Also, I am sure that many people read this thread to get ideas for their outfits. If somebody doesn't point out mistakes or even nuances for improvement, how will we learn. Thanks for the great feedback!

[Henri]

HF, I really like your Thursday and Friday outings. They sounded like fun. Please keep up the outings. I enjoy them. BTW Great pics and I agree with Thursday comment "Nice Legs". Henri

[stefan]

Number 1 is my favourite. Keep up the good work. You always manages to put together stylish outfits.

[HappyFeat]

Here are my latest outings and outfits:

Monday January 25 - Since the weather had been a little better, well at least no snow on the ground, I decided to take my Nine West "Pangnotta" d'Orsay pumps with a moderate heel out for their first outing. Since they are fairly dressy, yet conservative shoes I went with a fairly dressy look: white turtleneck, yellow Oscar de Lorenta sweater, charcoal Lane Bryant "Lafayette" trousers, and beige tights.

My stops included Marshall's, TJ Maxx, and DSW looking to see if any boots had gone one major markdown. I spent about 20 minutes in each store looking at shoes and did draw some attention, but nothing too out of the ordinary. Since I wasn't having much luck, I headed for the mall where I visited Lane Bryant but nothing caught my eye. The staff always greets me nicely and always offer help and conversation, which is the main reason I stop in. I spent about half an hour in Bakers where the young sales clerk kept bringing me shoes to try, but all in 10s because that store never seems to get in 11's. At Aldo I tried a couple pair of boots, but the shafts were just too small for my calf. My last stop was Banana Republic where I tried on a pair of skinny jeans and even a couple pair of shoes the had on sale, but they were both a size too small, but quite close to fitting none the less. I thought that I would go back later and see if they were still there. I did get a lot of looks while strolling the mall and got a shout out from a group of scruffy 12 year-olds to "find some men's shoes." I did get a bit of a chuckle from that.

Tuesday January 26 - During my last round of outings, I bought a pair of suede pants at a consignment store so I wanted to take them out for an outing. The pants are brown, so I matched them with a tan, ribbed Claiborne turtleneck sweater and funky old Nine West "Paz" ankle boots in brown. I hit the Shoe Carnival, willing to settle for even cheap boots if I could find them, but no luck there either. I did have a nice conversation with one of the clerks. I went to Barnes and Nobel to check out a couple books on Photoshop, which I really want, but at the moment really don't have time to use. By the time I could get around to them, I could get them elsewhere for half the money. Again, a couple of glances but no real reactions.

Finally I went to Starbucks across the street. The place was relatively empty and I wound up chatting to one of the customers and the staff at the coffee bar. It seems that we all had done our fair share of travel in NE Ohio and new a lot of the same, obscure places. After getting my drink, I bought a paper and pulled up an easy chair near the door. Every customer who came in got a full look at the fairly high heel on my boot. Some people did the double take thing, like they thought they could stare without me noticing. Some looked, smiled and spoke. A couple looked and held back laughter. One of the women working came my way to clean off some tables and we chatted for several minutes about her job, her graduate studies, etc. That was a very nice interaction.

Friday January 29 - Pay day, so off to the bank! I have worn heels every time I have gone into the branch, the tellers are always nice, so now I look forward to my semi-monthly bank run. Since I don't want to disappoint, I wore black suede and leather Bass "Alannis" booties with my black suede blazer, red JCrew sweater, white GAP turtleneck and Limited 917 boot cut jeans. The bank was busy, which limited my interaction with the tellers, but it was still a nice visit. They really don't react one way or the other anymore. I stopped at Half Price books and picked up a couple of used book on graphic design and went to Starbucks, the same store I was in on Monday. The same girl I talked to then was working, and we chatted for a bit. Since the store was jammed that day, not only was interaction limited there was no real place to sit, so I left, hot chocolate in hand.

I decided to return to the mall. At the Banana Republic, the shoes I was eying were sold, all five pair! I was a bit surprised. I did try on a pair of skinny corduroys pants that were marked down a great deal. I thought about buying a pair, but since I don't like the few pair of tall boots I have and hadn't had any luck in finding new ones, I decided to pass. I browsed the Ann Taylor Loft, but no good sales in my size and looked around H & M. On my way out I looked at the Macy's shoe department, but they had no boots for less than $75. No real interactions save the pleasantries with the barrista in Starbucks and a very nice clerk at BR, but a nice outing none the less.

Monday February 1 - My major activity was getting a haircut. It has been quite a while since I have gone for a haircut NOT wearing heels. I started doing it because I was inspired by members here who do it, but also I found it to be a great was to gauge reactions. And besides, getting a haircut is about looking better and I feel that I look best in heels. Never the less, my outfit was understated - black turtleneck, yellow Nautica sweater, black Ann Taylor Loft skinny jeans, black tights, and black patent Bandolino "MacDougal" loafers with a block heel and a gold buckle. Frankly, I think this type of outfit work best for me.

Though I had usually gone to higher end salons for my haircuts, I recently started going to Supercuts, one of those strip mall chains because they offer a color treatment that blends in my gray. And they also do a nice job, and the price is quite reasonable. The stylist was friendly, but not terribly talkative. Like every other stylist I have ever had, she made no comment about my shoes (though I did have one tell me how wonderful I looked and what a great sense of style I had) While I was there, the store got quite busy. Some of the waiting customers did check me out and I caught a few staring. When I left, I did see a couple women get up and watch me walk away through the window. What fun!

Next, I went to Wal-Mart to pick up a few odds and ends. Though I don't do it often, Wal-Mart is a great place to heel because people seem hyper focused on shopping. In the parking lot, I did catch a few glances. Next I went to Lowe's to get some wood screws to help with adding some boards to attach drywall. I was amazed, I had four women clerks helping me find what I was looking for - almost like they were fighting over helping me. Finally, I stopped by Marshall's on my way home. I found a pair of black Nine West "Blondie" boots in the clearance. They were $40 but had a few scuffs on them. I pointed it out to the clerk in the shoe department and she marked them down to $25 for me! Never hurts to ask! I also bought a black belt to accessorize a few outfits and work on showing my waist, as per Thighbootguy's prior suggestion!

Tuesday February 2 - Sometimes I can't help myself. I know an outfit may not be flattering, but I do it anyway. This day was one of those times. I was going consignment shopping, and when I do that I usually wear something over the top. I had decided to take a short break from skirts, until I address a couple of fit issues, but I didn't take a break from going a little too close to the edge. I bought a pair of purple Nine West "Nucio" pumps a few weeks back and wanted to give them a try. I decided to match them with a black jacket and purple wool sweater, but I chose off-white Lane Bryant "Houston" trousers to go with it. Not that the look was too awful, the pants are a bit too big, and the wide leg with the cuff makes them just a bit unflattering. Since that outing, the pants have officially been "retired" along with about six other pair of LB size 16 trousers.

First, I stopped at a consignment store that is fairly high end. The store has two locations. The new one is where I bought the suede trousers I wore in my second outing. This store is more suburban and also a little more uptight. They had nothing even close to my shoe size and few things that I would ever wear. However on of the clerks was friendly and told me that I need to come in at least once a month and that a few weeks ago they had several things that I would have liked. She gave me a brochure and told me that she hoped that I would make their store a regular stop.While I was in the store I got many looks from the women shopping, mostly negative and giggles and covert "points" from a couple pre-adolescent girls. Poeple just don't get out much in the suburbs I suppose...

My next stop was my regular store. Though I had been in recenlty, there wasn't much new. I did buy a pair of Bandolino boots that were almost new for $15, though they are a size too small, but still fit relatively well. I talked to the owner for a long time about her business (she is thinking of closing) and other assorted small talk. She has a friend who comes into help her, who is about 60, attractive, but scatter brained. She was leaving at the same time as was and said she wasn't in a hurry because she didn't have anybody waiting for her. I said if that were the case, we should grab a coffee, if she wouldn't be embarrassed to be seen with a guy dressed as I was. She laughed it off and said that I was dressed very well and looked quite natural so she agreed. We went to a Starbucks down the hill from the store and chatted for over an hour. She is a retired teacher, really into fashion, and had never been married. We talked about teaching and she was quite surprised to find out that I wasn't gay - almost disappointed actually. She lived in New York in the 70s and had a few great stories to tell, so I kind of figured she was an aging "fag hag" who was looking for a new friend. While we were chatting, several people took long looks, checking us out. We must have been quite an odd looking couple.

This is one of the great things that I have discovered about heeling - you never know what any outing will lead to!

[Maximilian]

Entertaining stories as usual HappyFeat. A good read as usual. I actually like the last outfit the most. I love those purple Nine West pumps. I've finally discovered color as well lol. I bought a purple dress shirt, a red silk dress shirt and a purple tunic/dress. I also finally broke my shoe/boot black-brown-gray pattern and got myself some nice burgundy stiletto pointed toe boots. You know that you've reached the point of complete heeling confidence in public when people staring at you and generally giving you negative looks makes you laugh at their patheticness and only helps to boost your confidence even further. Sounds like you've reached that point my friend. Bravo. Over the past month I've been spending my time in town for a change and I found that my confidence levels have soared as well. I have virtually no problem wearing any of my styles in public and absolutely love that personal feeling of freedom. I have no doubt that anyone on this site can reach that level of confidence. The trick is to take steady and small steps to gradually build up your confidence.