Trans Woman on Lingerie as Liberation and Self-Expression
A trans woman reflects on lingerie as a tool for self-discovery and empowerment during her medical transition in New York City. At age 29, after a breakup, she navigated sizing challenges with help from a tailor at her fashion house job. In 2021, amid increased trans visibility, she curated a wardrobe blending Tom Ford, Vera Wang, vintage Dior, and Marc Jacobs, relying on Carmen Liu's tucking underwear and fajas. Boutiques like Agent Provocateur and Fleur du Mal offered woman-centered environments free from the male gaze. She paired corsets with Wales Bonner shirtdresses, lace gloves with Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera gowns, and La Perla or Falke stockings for confidence. Embracing sexiness counters objectification and invisibility, prioritizing her own pleasure over male attention.
Key facts
- The author began medical transition at age 29 in New York City.
- She worked for a fashion house and asked a tailor to measure her for a bra.
- The year was 2021, a time of increased trans visibility.
- She used Carmen Liu tucking underwear and fajas.
- She shopped at Agent Provocateur and Fleur du Mal.
- She wore corsets under Wales Bonner shirtdresses.
- She paired lace gloves with Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera evening dresses.
- She used La Perla and Falke fishnet stockings.
Entities
Institutions
- Tom Ford
- Vera Wang
- Dior
- Marc Jacobs
- Carmen Liu
- Agent Provocateur
- Fleur du Mal
- Wales Bonner
- Oscar de la Renta
- Carolina Herrera
- La Perla
- Falke
- Khaite
- Barshai
Locations
- New York City
- United States