If you are a transgender woman or a crossdresser and you live in southeast Michigan, you have probably heard of Janet's Closet. And if live in the area, you should make a pilgrimage to one of the most welcoming venues for the trans community, anywhere.

https://janetscloset.com/

It bills itself as "The World's Largest Store for Crossdressers and Transgender Individuals," a somewhat unwieldy title, but with over 15,000 square feet of space devoted to clothing, wigs, breast forms, shoes aimed at our community, it may well be deserving of its self-proclaimed brag.

I have visited their store at 2317 Fort Street in Wyandotte on several occasions. As I live in Ann Arbor, it is nearly an hour drive, but well worth the effort.

Today's journey, made with my friend Elise, was to get a makeover. I have mentioned my still-fledging makeup attempts previously and I have been dying to go to Janet's to finally get one of the makeovers by a professional.

The makeup artist working on me today was a charming young woman named Elena. Right off the bat we hit it off, when she asked me what look I was going for and I answered, "Bold!" She happily agreed and went to work.

I have my own small-but-growing collection of makeup, brushes and sponges, but Elena had access to so much more and used them masterfully.

Seeking tips for doing my own makeup, I asked her a lot of questions, and she patiently explained every step as she went through them.

My greatest fear when doing my own makeup is applying eye liner and lashes. Elena detailed the application of the liner, the trimming of the lashes to get the right fit, and how to draw the perfect wings that I wanted so much.

It all took about minutes and when she finished, I stood before a mirror and couldn't believe the lovely woman staring back at me was...ME!

This had to be the most affirming moment of my transition so far! My friend Elise immediately took some photos and when we got back to her home, she took a few more. I will share those on my personal page at some point, but for now, I'll give a taste of my fresh look via a couple of selfies.

If you want a truly enjoyable, welcoming experience, you have to check out Janet's Closet. And if you also want to get a new, self-affirming lift, I highly recommend you treat yourself to a makeover by Elena.

-- Anni

Hiding from the paparazzi!

The eyes have it!