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A fun and playful imaginative expression of Nora by artist+photographer Amanda Richards in her studio. Yes- it's really Nora.
A fun and playful imaginative expression of Nora by artist+photographer Amanda Richards in her studio. Yes- it's really Nora.

Crossdressing –
the Ultimate
Disguise

Nora A. Simone

Crossdressing

– the Ultimate Disguise

Nora A. Simone

Assume you’ve a choice of two fantasy options.

Assume you’ve a choice of two fantasy options. For the next ten years you must either: (1) Be yourself but live in a different place each year; or (2) Remain where you currently live but live convincingly disguised as a different person each year.

Sure, either choice would result in some mind-expanding experiences, yet for me the second option is an intuitively obvious choice. That is because the first is more easily accomplished via conventional means while the second seems challenging, if not impossible.
With this preference in mind, I wondered why experiencing life via different personas was compelling. After some thinking, I’ve come up with some ideas and figured others would like to know.

I've been here many times previously but never as Nora... until now. Wow! Photo by C. Storm.
I've been here many times previously but never as Nora... until now. Wow! Photo by C. Storm.

To begin – I’d choose to present in female form most, if not all, of the time. This choice has nothing to do with gender (e.g. transgenderism), sex (e.g. transvestitism), or performance (e.g. drag). Rather it is simply because a female presentation for me, a genetic male, would be a more effective disguise. Here’s why.

Identity is an involuntary reflex to
how you are perceived.

A disguise quickly and effectively alters this perception. So, what happens when you suddenly alter your outward appearance? Well, it depends on how well you disguise yourself but for me gender change is a logical first step.

You see, among the very first distinctions made upon meeting a person is whether they are male or female. You are hardwired to make this distinction with unhesitating certainty.
So as a genetic male seeking a convincing disguise, I’d definitely want to present as a female. Thus, crossdressing would be, in my opinion, the ultimate disguise. Agree?

Acknowedged reasons for disguise have captured our imaginations for centuries. These are presented in theater, movies, television, folktales and writing. By personal examples with photos, I’ll demonstrate how this has worked for me.

Adventure

By observation I've learned to love shopping, shopping, shopping, and more shopping! Photo by G. Ortiz.
By observation I've learned to love shopping, shopping, shopping, and more shopping! Photo by G. Ortiz.

Being Nora adds excitement, mystery, and intrigue to any public activity. Exploring new places and interacting with people who have no idea, or an inaccurate idea, of who I truly am is thrilling. It allows me to become the lead character in a secret adventure. Occasionally, and only when it is very safe, I’ll break character just to get a reaction. Meeting a pretty lady with a male voice then becomes an interesting and usually enjoyable learning opportunity for others.

Observation and Research

There has been no better way to learn about mainstream women in modern society than to become one. As Nora, I blend in, listen to conversations, and learn about customs, traditions, and routines. One valuable way to do this is by shopping in person. Shopping for makeup, clothes, jewelry, handbags, and perfume are uniquely female activities and thus rich in research opportunities. Believe me, being treated as a female customer is a window into another world. It is true; “Listening and observing” are proven learning techniques and they are free!

Stealthy Nora checking into a hotel. Hope they don't check photo ID closely. Photo by C. Storm.
Stealthy Nora checking into a hotel. Hope they don't check photo ID closely. Photo by C. Storm.

Social Experiment

Adventurous wingwoman Trish and Nora escape from imaginary evildoers in history. Don't mess wth us! Photo by C. Storm.
Adventurous wingwoman Trish and Nora escape from imaginary evildoers in history. Don't mess wth us! Photo by C. Storm.

Being Nora has allowed me to experience social boundaries and stereotypes. For instance, I was mansplained about coffee while I am quite expert. Another amusing time It was assumed I was a helpless dumb blonde automobile driver by male parking attendants. Other memorable times include men seeking to buy me drinks, perfume, and even lingerie! No thanks! Yet I was pleased to be offered a seat by gentlemen at public venues. These experiences forever gave me a broader life perspective and how to be a better person overall.

A romantic presentation may result in enthusiastic validation by romantically minded viewers. Photo by G. Ortiz.
A romantic presentation may result in enthusiastic validation by romantically minded viewers. Photo by G. Ortiz.

Artistic Inspiration

Writers, artists, and musicians often find inspiration in the ordinary. Disguises immerse them in everyday life, providing fresh material for their creative works. When you change who you appear to be, you can experience sameness with new found perception. For example, visiting a museum or restaurant as Nora that I’m very familiar with from past experience, results in a completely new experience and perspective. The resulting inspiration is as uniquely powerful as might result from a mind- altering drug experience.

Blending in as just another tourist adventure in Las Vegas, NV.
Blending in as just another tourist adventure in Las Vegas, NV.

Historical Context

As a performing artist, I act differently but not in a way anyone would suspect I was a man. Image by C. Storm.
As a performing artist, I act differently but not in a way anyone would suspect I was a man. Image by C. Storm.

Throughout history, spies, revolutionaries, and adventurers have used disguises to achieve their goals. Think of Mata Hari, who used her charm and disguises during World War I. Haven’t you ever wondered about escaping danger by disguise? I sometimes do this with my special friends and we never tire of the thrill.

Romantic Pursuits

Imagine meeting someone special while in disguise—a chance encounter that wouldn’t have happened otherwise. Romantic stories often blossom from such clandestine meetings. Being happily married, I’m not at all interested in romantic pursuits, yet being perceived and pursued as a desirable woman is a thrilling validation of my disguise presentation. Flattering and flirty messages from men on my social media postings has been a reliable indication my presentation is convincing.

As a social experiemnt, beautiful Nora and BF Christina were offered drinks and compliments while dining.
As a social experiemnt, beautiful Nora and BF Christina were offered drinks and compliments while dining.

Fun and Playfulness

A fun and playful imaginative expression of Nora by artist+photographer Amanda Richards in her studio. Yes- it's really Nora.
A fun and playful imaginative expression of Nora by artist+photographer Amanda Richards in her studio. Yes- it's really Nora.

Sometimes, I simply enjoy the thrill of pretending to be someone else. It’s like a grown-up game of make-believe. When collaborating with a creative soul, even I can be surprised at the eye-popping results. Looking in a mirror, I recall many times wondering “Is that me?”

So, whether it’s for practical reasons or sheer enjoyment, a disguise adds an extra layer of fascination to any experience.

Remember, the next time you see a beautiful lady, she just might be a crossdresser.

Nora A. Simone empowers others by dispensing truth | noarsimone@yahoo.com

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