The Happy Feats of HappyFeat

[Fog]

Thank you for the kind words. No, I never got the girl. I had visited the store a few times, but she was never in.

That's a shame..... you know what they say, strike when the iron's hot

[HappyFeat]

That's a shame..... you know what they say, strike when the iron's hot

Quite true! Its amazing how my confidence has grown since then. I will not let opportunity slip through my fingers next time it presents itself.

Today, I broke another barrier and I am thrilled! I had my first daytime outing in a skirt! This has been something that I have wanted to do for quite some time and finally got around to it. The weather was nice, so I no longer had that as an excuse; I have plenty of very nice skirts that deserve to be worn; and I have several places that I have gone on my adventures recently where I knew I would be safe. So, I just dove in - head first - and went for it.

I wore a thin gray turtleneck sweater, a knee length straight denim skirt from Lane Bryant, black nylons, and Nine West "Tornado" knee boots (yes, the ones everybody seems to love.) Since it was still cool (highs in the mid 30's F) I covered it with a vintage overcoat that I had on and off all afternoon. I decided that I would play it "safe" today and go only places where people knew me, which are the regular places for most of my outings- Nine West outlet, Lane Bryant outlet, and the LB store where I bought my dress a couple of weeks ago.

The Outlets are a good half-hour's drive from my home, which gave me some time to collect my thoughts. I called the store before I left to see if the manager was working, a woman I met heeling that I do like to stay in contact with. She was excited to hear from me and told me that when I got in she would have some shoes picked out for me. Also, calling her while I was on my way, gave took away any chance I had of chickening out!

However, due to poor planning, I had to stop for gas. Like it or not, I had to get out of the car, pump gas in a totally random environment. A bit nervous as I pumped, I was quite relieved when absolutely nobody paid me any mind. An attendant was cleaning the pump next to me, never even turned her head. The guy pumping beside me never took his eye off the pump and after pumping got in his car and drove off, never turning his head my way. A girl on her cell phone walked right past me and never glanced away from the ground as she walked. Just like my original fears when I started heeling, I knew I could pull it off because few people ever leave their focus on what they are doing at that time. I finished and drove on to the outlets.

When I arrived, I jumped right out of the car without hesitation. I passed people in the parking lot (my least favorite part of heeling is walking through lots) who glanced my way, but made no visible sign of recognition. I know they saw me, but just didn't seem phased. When I got to the NW store, it was packed. I am never very comfortable in crowded stores, but I was there, in a skirt, and had little choice but to relax and go about my business.

The NW manager had six or seven pair of shoes for me to try, so I sat down, pulled off my boots and started trying shoes. I tried a pair of peep toes with straps, a couple pair of t-strap slides, a couple of pairs of pumps, and a really sweet pair of classic slides in pewter. None of them really suited me, but I did walk around the store in the pewter slides as I browsed for other shoes.

An African American woman with two kids was looking for boots at the same time. She had given me a very strange look earlier, so I was a bit apprehensive. But she stated a conversation with me about having a hard time finding shoes (she was also an 11) and I recommended a pair of boots for her. The manager had been helping her, but I should have gotten the commission! I made a couple of recommendations, we tried on shoes together, and had a very nice time for about 20 minutes. When the store cleared out, I chatted with the manager and the clerk for a bit and left without making a purchase.

I headed to the LB outlet. I was in last week, but they had gotten a lot of new things in. I originally planned to pick up some footless leggings that they had the previous week, but those were gone. The manager at this store told me about some of the new things that had come in and what had been moved to clearance and started a dressing room for me. When she came back, she asked if I would ever be interested in a skirt. I actually had to pint out to her that I was wearing a skirt! So much for fear of being easily spotted. I even had my coat off, carrying it under my arm.

I tried a long, ankle length skirt, a pair of blue summer gauchos, a pair of winter white trousers, and a pair of capris. I wound up buying the long skirt and the trousers. The manager then brought me some top, just to try. I tried them for fun, but they really didn't work for me. I collected myself, checked out and left the outlets for the day.

On my way home, I stopped at the LB store I frequent regurally. This si the store where I have 90% of m heeling wardrobe from. Again they were very busy. Other customers gave me inquisitive looks, but when the staff greeted me enthusiastically, they pretty much kept to themselves. I looked around a bit, chatted with the girls on the floor (the cutie I had been flirting with was not working), gave advice on a potential hair style to one clerk, and made small talk with the other two. They all gushed about my boots and even asked how I can stand to wear "heels that high." They really didn't have anything I even wanted to try, so after a brief lull in customers, I left when the activity picked up again.

I wasn't quite ready to call it a day. I was having way too much fun and felt totally natural and comfortable in my skirt, so I went into the self-serve shoe store next door. The Shoe Department, for those of you who may not be familiar is a store that sells some name brand, but mostly off brand shoes. Like Payless, they carry both men's and women's shoes. I had been in this store a couple of times, but it had been quite a while.

The clerks in the store are all women in their late 40's to early 50's. Though they had been friendly in the past, I had no idea that I was somebody they liked. I was greeted warmly, escorted to the boots, given a tour of the heels and made small talk with each of them individually. I did try and buy a pair of Steve Madden navy pumps with a kitten heel for $9.00, but cut my browsing short because a mother and daughter were making a scene over the daughter's choice of prom shoes.

When i checked out, I chatted with the clerks again for maybe 15 minutes or so. One woman said her husband wanted to be a lumberjack who worked from a helicopter. I told her that he can have that. I never like to be more than four inches off the ground. To which she replied that I look great being 4 inches off the ground...

I said good bye, told them I would be back to see what else gets marked down and headed home. What a fantastic day!

JeffB, I apologize to you for not believing that going out in a skirt and heels would be so easy and refreshing! I loved every minute of my day and can't wait to do it again.

The pictures are of my outfit, with and without my top coat. I will post pictures of the items I bought today later.

[JeffB]

Bravo to you, my friend! Bravo! You finally went and did what you wanted to for quite some time now. No need to apologize! I'm just glad you finally got to experience the absolutely fantastic and exhilirating feeling that comes from wearing heels with a skirt. And you definitely looked great in the pictures. The coat was a nice touch indeed. In fact, I might try a coat myself! And wasn't it surprising how so few noticed you while in your skirt, especially when you stopped at the gas station? I've done that in a skirt a couple of times in the past, on purpose, and no one cares. Period! Having planned your outing made things so much easier, increasing your comfort level considerably because you knew in advance what to expect and where to expect it. Pretty good there! All in all, it sounds like you had a great time on that first outing in a skirt, and I get the feeling that won't be your last! Heh!

[danielp6406]

Well done HappyFeat :-) Reading you and JeffB, it looks like you really enjoyed wearing a skirt. I wish one day I could do the same...

[JeffB]

Well done HappyFeat :-)

Reading you and JeffB, it looks like you really enjoyed wearing a skirt.

I wish one day I could do the same...

I'm sure HappyFeat would agree with me on this in that it takes a special sort of mindset and courage to break with convention and wear a skirt in public. Not all of us are bold enough to do that, but for those who can, it opens up all sorts of new and exciting vistas in the realm of men's fashion freedom which is what this website is all about.

[Dawn HH]

Happyfeat:-) Great guns fellow, you look very comfortable in that outfit and it sounds like you had a fantastic time that day. More power to you in a skirt.and heels and I'm sure that you will duplcate that outing again and again. It sure gives you the power to wear anything you want at anytime and anywhere under any circumstances comfortably. BTW...is that topcoat male or female? It sure compliments the rest of your outfit with a different pattern against your black ensemble. Cheers--- Dawn HH

[HappyFeat]

Well done HappyFeat :-)

Reading you and JeffB, it looks like you really enjoyed wearing a skirt.

I wish one day I could do the same...

JeffB put it well in his response and I agree totally with what he said. Keep in mind it took me a lot to build up to going out in a skirt. I am not sure if I will do it regurally as JeffB does, but I will do it when I choose simply because I like it and frankly there is absolutely no reason for me not to.

As JeffB put it, this site is a lot about supporting one another and frankly I have learned a lot about "skirting" specifically from Jeff's experiences. If it is something you really want to try, do so when you are ready and circumstnces permit it.

Happyfeat:-)

BTW...is that topcoat male or female? It sure compliments the rest of your outfit with a different pattern against your black ensemble.

Cheers---

Dawn HH

I am not sure. I bought that coat at a thrift store in the men's section last year and love it. Frankly what attracted me to it was its quality (Austrailian wool and maybe 30 years old) and its gender neutrality. As it turned out it is a great coat to wear with a skirt...just long enough.

[Bootking]

Another barrier broken - excellent! Great look HappyFeat (I can't find those darn boots in my size)!!

[JeffB]

JeffB put it well in his response and I agree totally with what he said. Keep in mind it took me a lot to build up to going out in a skirt. I am not sure if I will do it regurally as JeffB does, but I will do it when I choose simply because I like it and frankly there is absolutely no reason for me not to.

Couldn't have said it any better myself! Why should men be denied the privilege of wearing skirts if that's what they want to do? I mean, the activity doesn't hurt anyone, brings occasional amusement to some but is otherwise ignored by the rest of the world. So, why not?

As JeffB put it, this site is a lot about supporting one another and frankly I have learned a lot about "skirting" specifically from Jeff's experiences. If it is something you really want to try, do so when you are ready and circumstnces permit it.

And I've been inspired by others here who've thrown caution to the winds and decided to live life by their own terms and not in the way society wants us to. I'm glad that others here have learned something from my experiences as I've learned from other members. That's the true beauty of this most unique community!

[danielp6406]

...Why should men be denied the privilege of wearing skirts if that's what they want to do? ...

I really "want" to try it but doing it in public is another story...

Thanks to this forum, I am wearing heels to work for a few months now.

A few weeks ago, I started to wear block heels in public (Shopping centers etc).

I would NEVER imagined doing so in my life ! And I enjoy it a LOT. Again, thanks to this forum !

...Keep in mind it took me a lot to build up to going out in a skirt...

I am just "beginning" to think about it...I really like the look of a skirt with high heel boots.

I guess it must be very comfortable and very light to wear...

You are an "experienced" heeler: May I ask you how long it took for you to decide to wear a skirt in public?

[HappyFeat]

...Thanks to this forum, I am wearing heels to work for a few months now...

Before I answer your question, I just wanted to say that I think its really cool that you can wear heels to work. I could never do that in my current job, though I have thought about getting a part-time job where I could wear heels. I thought about applying to Lane Bryant, but the manager told be though she would hire me in a heartbeat, I would only be aloud to wear my "boy clothes" if i was working. The manager at the Nine West outlet and I talked about me working for her in the summer, but they are on a hiring freeze. However, either place would not be a great place to wear heels since retail shifts require a long time on the feet.

Your confidence in wearing heels to work is quite impressive to me.

I am just "beginning" to think about it...I really like the look of a skirt with high heel boots.

I guess it must be very comfortable and very light to wear...

You are an "experienced" heeler: May I ask you how long it took for you to decide to wear a skirt in public?

Well, I have worn a skirt out a few times previously. Years ago, I traveled a lot for my job and would wear a skirt late at night while driving. In the last few years, I went to a few gay/alternative bars where I could wear a skirt without TOO much fear. But those outings were always at night, usually quite late, and in a less than traditional setting. (Ironically, I just found out that most of the people there thought I was married for some strange reason.)

My recent outing was my very first time out in a skirt in a public setting during daylight hours. That's the long answer. The short answer is that it is something i have wanted to try for the last several years, but it was only in the last six moths or so that I seriously considered doing something about it, and I finally got around to it.

[JeffB]

Well, I have worn a skirt out a few times previously. Years ago, I traveled a lot for my job and would wear a skirt late at night while driving. In the last few years, I went to a few gay/alternative bars where I could wear a skirt without TOO much fear. But those outings were always at night, usually quite late, and in a less than traditional setting. (Ironically, I just found out that most of the people there thought I was married for some strange reason.)

How interesting, the contrast between us in the this matter. I'm not a night person, so I just went out in broad daylight on my very first outing in a skirt back last August. The notion of being seen by others didn't bother me, I figured I'd be pointed at, laughed at, the whole nine yards, when that didn't happen, my confidence was bolstered, particularly to the point where I went to New York City in a skirt a few days later, and I haven't looked back since.

My recent outing was my very first time out in a skirt in a public setting during daylight hours. That's the long answer. The short answer is that it is something i have wanted to try for the last several years, but it was only in the last six moths or so that I seriously considered doing something about it, and I finally got around to it.

And wasn't it great fun, eh?

[danielp6406]

Thank you HappyFeat for taking the time to reply to me in such details.

Can't wait to read your next outing...

BTW, tomorrow I will wear at the office the boots you see on my avatar.

Note that I will put them on once I am in the office. Still too much ice and snow outside...

Happy heeling all !

[kneehighs]

I can't wait to read your next outing either!! How about a story of you on a first date in heels? I mean, I've met girls on the sidewalks of New York while wearing black stiletto pumps and closed a date with them right there on the spot. Either way, keep writing!

[HappyFeat]

I got an e-mail from my boss today saying the meeting scheduled for this afternoon was canceled, meaning that I had the afternoon from 2:00 PM free and decided to take advantage of my free time to do a little heeling. Since the notice came late, I didn't have much time to prepare. The weather was unseasonably nice, so I gave serious thought to heels and pumps, but couldn't put together an outfit that I really liked so I opted to wear sandals. The outfit was a black Banana Republic shirt with horizontal stripes, winter white Lane Bryant "Houston" trousers, and gold Nine West "Yendler" sandals. These are very strappy sandals what really expose the feet. Only about a 3 inch heel was nice for the inseem of my pants and the color matched my nails quite well. My first stop was Hallmark to buy some cards for Valentine's Day. The store was pretty crowded, but everybody was fairly focused. Though I was quite close to many other customers, none reacted to my shoes, which surprised me. When I went to check out, I stood back from the register giving the clerk the full view of my shoes, but she didn't react until I left. When I got to the door I could hear laughter and the clerk's cowerker was pointing my footwear out to her. I didn't think much of it, but I was happy to get the first major reaction out of the way. My next stop was a craft store. Many people, mainly women, noticed but didn't give much of a reaction - a little double take then back to their business. A couple of teenage girls kept bumping into me in various isles, though both noticed, they didn't react any more than always making eye contact and acknowledging me when I was near them. I wanted to buy some craft paper for shipping some items I am selling on eBay, but it was very expensive in the store. I did as the clerk for help, but there were no other options. After the craft store, I went to the Shoe Carnival. It had been years since I shopped there, but I saw Nine West boxes on a table out front an it piqued my interest. I browsed the store and didn't see too much in an 11, and was about to leave when I discovered an isle with very cheap shoes. They were a brand called Villager by Liz Clayborn and only $10 a pair. They were leather even! I tried on about a dozen pair and bought a pair of blue patent peep toes with a 3 inch heel and a pair of brown leather Mary Janes with a 3 inch heel. Both clerks and two customers walked down the isle while I was trying them on. When I checked out, I had picked up the wrong shoes in one box. I told the clerk which ones I wanted and we had a great talk about the brand and the shoes I selected. Another customer, a very attractive brunette fell in line behind me and we talked about the perils of owning too many shoes. At this point, I realized that I was beyond comfortable, I was totally relaxed and having a great day. I went to Pier 1 imports next. The doors were open, letting the breeze blow in nicely. I was greeted by a woman in her 30's who commented on how nice a day it was. I responded to her that, yes it was beautiful and I couldn't pass up a chance to break out the sandals. Though I was fishing for a response, she didn't oblige me. We chatted a bit as I browsed and I continued on my way. Since I was in the neighborhood, I spent a good half hour browsing DSW, though they were quite limited on 11's. Most of the staff was busy stocking so, I didn't have any reaction from them until I left when one young female clerk watched me walk to the car. Of course I waved at her to let her know I knew she was watching. She just smiled and went back to work. Something I have noticed when shopping for shoes is that other customers notice, but they tend to be mesmerized in their own search and a guy in heels is just competition for a bench, or that pair of to die for sling backs. In essence, "just one of the girls." I looked at Catherine's, a plus size store that i had heard of but never had visited. I looked around, but found that their styles did not suit my taste. I'll just stick to Lane Bryant for now. I went to the Bath and Body Works to check out their sale merchandises and had a lovely interaction with the clerk, though she said nothing about my shoes. She did notice, was a bit shocked, but was very friendly. A woman in her 70's and I talked about air fresheners and change purses, which was my first positive interaction with somebody of that generation while heeling. I bought some body scrub, talked about the products and headed on. It was getting late by this time, so I wanted to get to the other side of town before rush hour, so I left that shopping area. On my way home, I stopped at Starbucks. I didn't have any hesitation at all about stopping, getting out of the car, going in, etc. There was a young guy, tank top, muscles, shaved dome, lots of tattoos with his girlfriend at the table next to the door. This is the exact kind of guy who unnerves me a bit when heeling. His girlfriend noticed right away, he glanced but that was it. I was pretty relieved. Before ordering, I headed to the restroom. On my way one of the staff looked right at my feet, looked me in the face, and then right back at my feet. No other reaction, just the double take. When I came back to order I was in line behind a gorgeous, petite brunette. She was dressed professionally- crisp blouse, a line skirt, black nylons, black pumps- like I said, gorgeous. We made eye contact, she ordered and went to the restroom herself. Her order came up before she returned as did mine. I stalled around the front area until she came back. Again we made eye contact, she spoke and smiled. This was it, I was hoping. She grabbed her drink, and left the store. I was hoping she was going to stay a bit so I could get an opening. She did notice my shoes, for sure and I know she was intrigued. But since she went out the door opposite where I was standing I knew it was just a nice interaction, nothing more. While I was waiting for her another young woman was on her telephone staring at me intensely. I browsed a couple of kiosks to let her have a good look. She kept staring, I kept showing, but she was never getting off the phone. When I left, the pretty brunette drove by, but she was on her phone by then. I am pretty much in favor of banning cell phones in public places. My last stop of the day was Lane Bryant. The last time I was in, I was told to come back this week because they would be marking down additional items. None of my favorite clerks were in, though the people working are nice, they just don't go out of their way for me when I shop. I bought two more skirts- a black on black pinstripe similar to the gray one I posted recently and a black nylon one that fits me very nice. I am now up to about 10 skirts, so I need to get out there an wear them. Today was one of the best days of heeling I have ever had. I can say that I am totally at home in heels and love them regardless of the style. I know the sandals were terribly over the top, but I was in an over the top mood. They would be better as evening shoes, but I think strappy sandals look great with trousers. Th down side is that I have family coming in and out for the next couple of weeks, so I don't know when I am going to make it out again. But it was great to be out today. Attached are pictures of my outfit and sandals.

[Maximilian]

What an exceptional outfit. Those sandals are HOT!!! I love strappy sandals as well but feel that they are too over the top for me to wear in public.

They would be better as evening shoes, but I think strappy sandals look great with trousers.

I also think that you're overdressed to the spots you visited. The ensemble is more suited to a lounge/salsa bar. I also have that problem since some of the looks I like are too fancy for the day to day places I go to and are only suited for evening outings.

Your confidence inspires me. Keep up the good work.

[Bootking]

Great look HappyFeat and great shoes; they go together very well. You looked as if you're ready to take the next cruise!!

[Puffer]

Very nice sandals, HF - unfussy, elegant and revealing. That style always look good on a woman and you wear them very well too with your smart and co-ordinated outfit.

I can't remember if you have told us already but do you wear heels and feminine clothes etc when with close friends or work colleagues? If so, what is their reaction?

[JeffB]

HappyFeat: Congrats on another great outing in a stylish outfit! Those sandals looked pretty darn cool. More power to you, my friend!

[Bubba136]

I really like the outfit. Especially the sandals. As far as being overdressed, I think you like nice just the way you were dressed. I would however, if I were you, polish your toes. Somehow, your feet look a little naked....

[kneehighs]

....snip.....

Before ordering, I headed to the restroom. On my way one of the staff looked right at my feet, looked me in the face, and then right back at my feet. No other reaction, just the double take. When I came back to order I was in line behind a gorgeous, petite brunette. She was dressed professionally- crisp blouse, a line skirt, black nylons, black pumps- like I said, gorgeous. We made eye contact, she ordered and went to the restroom herself. Her order came up before she returned as did mine. I stalled around the front area until she came back. Again we made eye contact, she spoke and smiled. This was it, I was hoping. She grabbed her drink, and left the store. I was hoping she was going to stay a bit so I could get an opening. She did notice my shoes, for sure and I know she was intrigued. But since she went out the door opposite where I was standing I knew it was just a nice interaction, nothing more....

Seems like just another woman who is waiting for a man to open them up to new exciting experiences, you know, open them up to a part of themself that society tells them to repress...you know, the part of herself she's kept locked away for so long because she's always been told it's wrong for people to act that way, dress that way....you get the drift. Get her to be aware of and enjoy that part of herself around you and it won't matter what you wear. You never know, you might wind up in heels in a bathroom stall in public with this girl....

EDIT: maybe we should start an Academy of How to Talk to Women....I've met a lot of guys on this forum who I really liked, but when it came to the ladies, you could hear the crickets chirp. That's what I find special about your posts...the interaction with girls goes beyond just exchanging formalities, it gets into deeper territory. Bravo!

[JeffB]

Seems like just another woman who is waiting for a man to open them up to new exciting experiences, you know, open them up to a part of themself that society tells them to repress...you know, the part of herself she's kept locked away for so long because she's always been told it's wrong for people to act that way, dress that way....you get the drift. Get her to be aware of and enjoy that part of herself around you and it won't matter what you wear. You never know, you might wind up in heels in a bathroom stall in public with this girl....

EDIT: maybe we should start an Academy of How to Talk to Women....I've met a lot of guys on this forum who I really liked, but when it came to the ladies, you could hear the crickets chirp. That's what I find special about your posts...the interaction with girls goes beyond just exchanging formalities, it gets into deeper territory. Bravo!

Sounds like a good idea. I'd sign up for the course. While I think (heavy emphasis on "think") I could handle myself relatively well, I'm not afraid to admit I could use a little help here and there. Heh!

[HappyFeat]

A big thank you to everybody who replied to my last posting. Since there were so many posts, I selected a few to reply to that involved specific questions or comments. In all of my previous outings, this one is by far my favorite and the one that has made me the most content. Thanks for all of the critique ans support!

What an exceptional outfit. Those sandals are HOT!!! I love strappy sandals as well but feel that they are too over the top for me to wear in public.

I also think that you're overdressed to the spots you visited. The ensemble is more suited to a lounge/salsa bar. I also have that problem since some of the looks I like are too fancy for the day to day places I go to and are only suited for evening outings.

Your confidence inspires me. Keep up the good work.

Actually, I agree with you on both counts- too over the top and too overdressed for strip mall shopping in the afternoon. Ironically it was what I was going for when I selected my outfit. For some reason, my mood that particular day was to just push everything as far as I wanted, so I went for it. After my day in gold strappy sandals (and the blister the strap dug into my left big toe) I feel like I can do almost any outfit without any hesitation or reservation.

My personality is over the top in a lot of way, but by really getting "out there" my confidence grows exponentially. I just think that it was a few short months ago, I really tried to consider whee I went, how visible my shoes are, etc. and now I have had consecutive outings in a skirt and sandals. I officially feel free to do what I want and where i want and how I want. Though I will likely save the gold sandals for that salsa bar in the future.

Very nice sandals, HF - unfussy, elegant and revealing. That style always look good on a woman and you wear them very well too with your smart and co-ordinated outfit.

I can't remember if you have told us already but do you wear heels and feminine clothes etc when with close friends or work colleagues? If so, what is their reaction?

No, actually I don't wear heels around any close friends or work colleagues at the moment. One reason is that I really don't have any close friends locally and my work colleagues really are not open minded people. I teach and a few students have seen me in heels, but that's about it. Also, I don't share my heeling with family. These are not things I am terribly proud of, but it is what it is.

I really like the outfit. Especially the sandals. As far as being overdressed, I think you like nice just the way you were dressed. I would however, if I were you, polish your toes. Somehow, your feet look a little naked....

Yep, I was way over dressed. Not to mention sandals in February is a pretty big faux pas, but as I said above sometimes I just go a bit overboard and last week was pretty out there.

As for my toes, they are actually polished. The color is very subtle and I am in full agreement that I should have gone a bit bolder, but then again I didn't plan on sandals when I got my last pedicure.

This is only the second time I got nail color. Last December, I had a deep reddish purple and it worked very well for my first outing in sandals and polish. This time I got a very pale gold color that doesn't attract much attention at all. I may get color one more time before Spring and will likely go bold again. I am still experimenting and will eventually find something I like that adds that finishing exclamation point.

Seems like just another woman who is waiting for a man to open them up to new exciting experiences, you know, open them up to a part of themself that society tells them to repress...you know, the part of herself she's kept locked away for so long because she's always been told it's wrong for people to act that way, dress that way....you get the drift. Get her to be aware of and enjoy that part of herself around you and it won't matter what you wear. You never know, you might wind up in heels in a bathroom stall in public with this girl....

I was picking up on a vibe that she was at least intrigued and liked my look. When I saw her I did not flinch or shy away. I know eventually I will make that "contact" with somebody and I have patients and persistence on my side.

My thought was that even if nothing happened, she was opened up to a world that she did not even know was an option. I the end, isn't that what we as guys in heels are trying to do anyway...make our statement an acceptable norm one person at a time?

EDIT: maybe we should start an Academy of How to Talk to Women....I've met a lot of guys on this forum who I really liked, but when it came to the ladies, you could hear the crickets chirp. That's what I find special about your posts...the interaction with girls goes beyond just exchanging formalities, it gets into deeper territory. Bravo!

I don't know about that...I have learned a lot from everybody here as well so in some ways, I am using lessons learned by others and just going for it. As far as talking to women, I think the guy who posted in another thread him and some beauty taking shots out of each other's pumps is already dean of that school. I would be happy to be an instructor, but kneehighs has already blazed a few million trails...

When I started this thread, I had a discouraging posting from another member that any flirtation with sales people was merely an effort to sell me shoes or clothes. Basically the post was good natured, not wanting me to get too excited and wind up being hurt. But after giving it some thought, I think a lot of guys think that women would never like a guy in heels.

This got me to thinking: Heels don't define me. I am pretty much the same person in men's shoes (or barefoot for that matter) as I am in gold Nine West evening shoes. I wear heels because I like them, they look GREAT and it really is a fantastic way to get past all sorts of crap that is wrapped up in boy/girl interactions.

My wearing heels in public pretty much announes that I am an individual, that I am confident, that I am unconventional, and that I really don't care who approves of me. When it comes to dating, romance, or whatever we call it we are all socialized to pretty much lie about ourselves in so many ways that something will always come up. We try to look wealthy, clean, macho, whatever...evenaually you get outed.

Here's my two cents for the "Academy," be yourself and have the confidence to make them want you more than you need their approval. As I said before, they cute brunette at Starbucks was a great encounter even if it led to nothing. But so was the other girl on the cell phone who kept staring at my feet or the woman behind me in line at the Shoe Carnival who talked with me about owning too many shoes, and on and on and on. Eventually one will be so intrigued and confident enough to follow through on their impulses.

I know it isn't for everybody, but when I got the courage to move from the shadows into the light, my entire outlook on file has evolved for the better. In my mind, I still have a long way to go, but I know I get closer every time I step out in a pair of high heels. I don't yet know when my next outing will be or where it will take me, but I can't wait to find out.

[Puffer]

As for my toes, they are actually polished. The color is very subtle and I am in full agreement that I should have gone a bit bolder, but then again I didn't plan on sandals when I got my last pedicure.

This is only the second time I got nail color. Last December, I had a deep reddish purple and it worked very well for my first outing in sandals and polish. This time I got a very pale gold color that doesn't attract much attention at all. I may get color one more time before Spring and will likely go bold again. I am still experimenting and will eventually find something I like that adds that finishing exclamation point.

I saw in the pic that your nails were subtly coloured, HF (and am surprised that Bubba didn't). I think the colour rendering was a little out, however, as I didn't realise that it was pale gold - and your feet looked a bit redder than I'm sure they really are (even when bare in February!). Although I don't lacquer my nails, I feel that a frosted or pearlised colour would pass muster almost anywhere: anything from 'barely there' mother-of-pearl to a deeper silvery-rose, or a pale silvery-blue or grey. The more solid and darker colours (crimson, purple, black etc) always seem to shout too much for my liking, on women or otherwise, and are less tolerant of any nail imperfection.

Thanks for answering my question about your dressing in company. And don't just keep those gold sandals for dressy nights out!

[JeffB]

Yep, I was way over dressed. Not to mention sandals in February is a pretty big faux pas, but as I said above sometimes I just go a bit overboard and last week was pretty out there.

I've always found a self-critique to be important to one's personal growth. I've also wondered about being overdressed when out and about, especially on Sundays when I'm sporting a short skirt, hosiery and heels when not even women bother with that stuff as they stroll around in sweats and sneaks. I try as best I can nonetheless to blend in with my surroundings. Hide in plain sight. Perhaps we both have to work on that.

My wearing heels in public pretty much announes that I am an individual, that I am confident, that I am unconventional, and that I really don't care who approves of me.

Brilliant commentary! Absolutely brilliant! We all know that universal acceptance of men who choose to wear women' shoes will probably never happen in our lifetime, and I could care less. I'm all about being myself, living my life the way I choose to, not how society chooses.

I know it isn't for everybody, but when I got the courage to move from the shadows into the light, my entire outlook on file has evolved for the better. In my mind, I still have a long way to go, but I know I get closer every time I step out in a pair of high heels. I don't yet know when my next outing will be or where it will take me, but I can't wait to find out.

Amen, my brother! If it weren't for this website, I'd probably be in the closet today instead of having evolved into the person I today. I know my own journey still has a ways to go, and I'm eager to see where the trip takes me.

[HappyFeat]

After work today I had a bit of an impromptu outing. I got a call from the Lane Bryant store I frequent telling me that they had received a huge shipment of clearance merchandise from a store that had closed and that the most expensive item on the rack was $12.99. It is great being a preferred customer! When I got home I changed into my gray skirt, to go with my black Banana Republic turtle neck I wore under a sweater and black tights I wore under my trousers to work. I completed the outfit with my Steve Madden black patent Mary Jane's with a 3 inch stiletto heel and my wool top coat. As usual, they were very excited to see me. My favorite clerk was in and she immediately told me she loved my shoes. She then told me the winter white jacket that I had been waiting to be marked down was on the rack, asked me what size I was looking for in pants and said she wold go in the back to find anything that isn't out that I might want. As I browsed, I talked to the other clerk, hung my coat on the corner of the rack and preceded to try on jackets. The first clerk returned with a huge stack of trousers and started to sort through them. Other customers milled by paying only minor attention to me. After about 20 minutes, the first clerk picked out some trousers for me to try and started a dressing room for me. She stood outside my door, even though there were a lot of other customers for me come out and model for her. I did find one pair of flat front trousers that are fantastic and I added them to the stack with my jacket. I put my skirt back on and returned to the floor to look for some other items. I tried on a few more jackets, but the fit just was never right. The white jacket really doesn't fit too well either, but I had the pants to match so I could deal with that. When I found this little lacy skirt, her eyes got huge and she said "I had to try it!" So what the hell, I did. Again she followed me to the dressing room sat outside and waited for me to model. She was amazed at how great it looked and told me I had to have it. She began recommending outfits...a black jacket, boots, sandals, a crisp white shirt and on and on. I gave her a twirl and decided that it was fun, though I doubt I will ever have a chance to wear it anywhere. As soon as I got back into the dressing room the other clerk knocked and asked me to show her. Again, outfit suggestions, how wonderful it looks, etc. So, I decided to buy it. I had a coupon, so I found another black dress...more line a long tee shirt...for $10, a couple of tops, and a very nice long navy blue skirt. My skirt collection is getting pretty big and considering that I only shave in the winter (I like hairy legs with my shorts) I am sure that I won't get them all in before the "season" ends. The two clerks and I discussed going out together (my favorite clerk is married, sob) and I even agreed to be the designated driver. Maybe it will work out, but it is fun to be invited. I spent nearly two hours in the store and had a great time. After LB, I went next door to the Shoe Department to browse. The clerks commented on my legs and said they wish they looked as good in a skirt. The told me they hadn't gotten a lot in but one clerk showed me a few new pair. None were my taste and none were in an 11 anyway. We chatted a bit and I moved on. It was getting pretty late at this point, so I stopped by Panerra Bread, got a hot cocoa to go. I did get a few turned heads, but the girl who waited on me was very pleasant. The funny thing is I feel totally at home in a skirt and heels. It wasn't long ago that there was a certain "thrill" to heeling...kind of like doing something taboo or an excitement of breaking a barrier. I don't know exactly how to explain it. Now, I feel like I can go most anywhere wearing whatever and not even think about it. For example during my last outing, my thoughts were more about how silly it was to wear sandals in February in the northeast U.S., not about the fact that I was wearing gold sandals, with nail color, with a 3 inch stiletto heel, etc. All I can say is that this is getting really good! Attached pictures are of my outfit, my outfit with the top coat, the off white jacket paired with the matching pants (with a blue tee and blue suede pumps), the silly lace skirt (with red Nine West sandals), and the navy long skirt (with red Bandolino pumps).

[JeffB]

HappyFeat: Bravo to you, my friend! Bravo! The outfit in the first picture was very sharp and stylish, and you certainly wore it well. The other pics were pretty cool too! Sounds like you had quite an enjoyable time shopping for more stuff to stroll around in. I greatly admire you for that.

The funny thing is I feel totally at home in a skirt and heels. It wasn't long ago that there was a certain "thrill" to heeling...kind of like doing something taboo or an excitement of breaking a barrier. I don't know exactly how to explain it. Now, I feel like I can go most anywhere wearing whatever and not even think about it. For example during my last outing, my thoughts were more about how silly it was to wear sandals in February in the northeast U.S., not about the fact that I was wearing gold sandals, with nail color, with a 3 inch stiletto heel, etc. All I can say is that this is getting really good!

Couldn't have said it better myself! I feel the exact same way! The taboo quotent that came from being a male wearing a skirt and heels in public was present in my thinking as well, like I was crossing a line I had no business crossing, but I did anyway, and didn't give a damn what the world thought either. I'm glad you're enjoying the experience as much as I am. More power to you, my friend!

[Bootking]

the silly lace skirt (with red Nine West sandals).

Looks damn good!!

[radiodave]

Nice pictures HF! Sorry I've been out of the loop for a while. I must say, the sandals and skirt are a big jump, but you pull them off well. Makes me a little jealous! Nice legs! Maybe when it warms up a little more I'll be making some more outings again. Anyway, keep it up!

[HappyFeat]

Always on the lookout for new and different places to heel, tonight I decided to go to a public library for a lecture on Abraham Lincoln. The lecture was a professor from a small college in Eastern Pennsylvania and had been originally scheduled for last week but was postponed due to weather. Though I am a bit of a history buff, the primary reason I went was to wear heels in a new setting. Since I wasn't sure of what I was "heeling" into I went fairly conservative- brown Polo sweater, the gray herring bone trousers I bought at LB last night (size 14 and they fit GREAT, I must be dropping a few pounds) suntan knee highs, and brown mary jane heels I bought while heeling the day I was out in sandals. I waited until the last minute to enter the library, since I really didn't know what to expect. The crowd was what I expected, older and mainly female. I also anticipated running into somebody who would recognize me, another big step for me heeling, but I really didn't care. I am getting more comfortable and love wearing heels and hating to hide it form many parts of my life. The lecture was quite interesting, focusing mainly on Lincoln's leadership style and his handling of the Civil War. I did learn that he was never a member of a church and though spiritual, did not trust organized religion. He did not have a minister deliver a prayer at either of his inaugurations. But I digress... I set in the back, by myself, mainly because I was trying a bit not to be noticed, but I would have set in the back anyway. After the lecture, I milled around, had some refreshments, and left without talking to anybody. Most of the people (about 50 people attended) left immediately afterward. A couple people on the staff noticed me, did double takes, whispered between themselves, etc. but said nothing directly to me. Feeling like I had made a pretty big step, I left the library and headed home. I had a wonderful evening and my confidence is growing! The pictures attached are of my outfit and my shoes. The shoes are Villager by Liz Clayborn, which I bought at the Shoe Carnival for $10. Though they are "cheap" shoes they are leather and are very comfortable. The more I get out, I begin to wonder how I ever let my inhibitions keep me from this in the past...