About Cross-Dressing

Cross-dressing is the act of wearing clothing commonly associated with people of the opposite gender. Many motivations for the practice have emerged throughout history, ranging from intentional disguise to increased comfort to a sense that one is a different gender inside than physically apparent on the outside. Whatever the reason, there is nothing inherently deviant or sexual about the choice to wear attire designed for the opposite gender.

Drag

Although drag queens are more familiar to the general public than drag kings, both take pleasure in dressing like the opposite sex--often for the sake of performance art and entertainment purposes. Drag queens typically wear flamboyant, colorful, over-the-top outfits combined with lavish makeup and extreme hairdos or wigs to accentuate their femininity. Those drag kings who don't impersonate flashy, high-profile male figures like Elvis Presley frequently achieve a masculine look with clearly recognizable menswear, often enhanced by shorter, boyish hairstyles and no or little makeup.

Transsexualism

Also called Gender Identity Disorder, transsexualism is marked by a strong identification with the opposite gender, coupled with unease with one's gender assigned at birth. As transsexuals mature and become increasingly aware of their feelings, they may cross-dress to explore and understand their identity issues. Some transsexuals eventually pursue gender reassignment or a sex-change operation.

Entertainment

From before the era of William Shakespeare, cross-dressing has been a technique to permit actors to portray female characters and actresses to play male characters. Historically, the practice was employed by male entertainers when there were no actresses available or allowed, and sometimes when a man's strength was required, such as during stunts. Cross-dressing was also used as an intentional plot device to mislead audiences or even convey equality regarding gender stereotypes.

Cultural Norms

While kilts are popular male attire in Scotland, most people outside the country equate them with skirts intended for women. A similar mentality in the United States prior to the 1950s helped reinforce the social stigma of women not wearing pants, lest they be perceived as overly bold and mannish. Both examples demonstrate the culture-specific influence of attire. Cross-dressing can help people break the traditional mold and experience increased comfort in the process.

Deception

Just as art uses cross-dressing as a method of concealing essential gender information from audiences, individuals do the same in real life. Common reasons include avoiding certain types of gender-specific requirements or roles, such as using the men's dressing room when one identifies as a woman, or playing a certain sport restricted to members of the opposite sex.

Resources

• Gender Atypical Behavior
• International Drag King Extravaganza