Tuesday, March 18, 2014

The Flip Side

I rarely look at myself in male-mode.  I don't think there's much to see there.  But, after studying my female appearance, I decided to take a glance at how I look as a man.

Surprisingly, I saw things I wasn't previously aware of.  My resemblance to my father; my obvious aging; and my inner soul -- which permeates my face despite the mask I thought concealed it.

Do you see anything?


 
 
 

 
 
 

40 comments:

  1. I see a very kind smile.

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  2. Stubble!
    But the eyes... there is a kindness and an excitement in them. No matter what clothes, what societal expectations, those eyes are always there

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  3. Yes, I see someone who has a mischeivous side and a sweetness to him. You look huggable and trustworthy. If I met you face to face I would want to talk to you.

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  4. You have wonderful eyes. You look like someone I would enjoy laughing with.

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  5. I see a sincere, genuine, and kind soul :) Your eyes are so expressive!

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  6. I see a person who has a kind face, trust worthy and your eyes have a sparkle. Ally I like you no matter which persona you are, because it's your heart & soul and kindness that shines through.

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  7. I see you kind and adventures, your eyes are glowing with some inner light. I'd say you look attractive even as men.
    Nice seeing your other side here as well

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  8. You look to me like a very good friend, someone who would be interested in what was being said and someone that cares.

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  9. Another beautiful soul yearning to find its place amongst the stars and live its own truth.

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  10. You have a very "friendly" face, sweet eyes and you look kind and caring. Basically I see the same when you dress up in female mode, because your soul is the same and your eyes stand up with or without make up ! Hugs


    Fashion and Cookies
    Facebook / G+

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  11. There is such sweetness in your face, you look at ease, open and friendly and you have the most beautiful colour eyes x x x

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  12. You have warm and friendly eyes - there is such a sweetness to you!!

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  13. This might sound weird, but what really surprised me is how much of a difference the stubble makes in your appearance. Maybe it's the motorcycle shirt, too, but I definitely feel like these photos are a very masculine contrast to your outfit shots. Very handsome.

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    1. The inclusion of the stubble was deliberate. I wanted to display my natural masculinity. Obviously, I have to shave whenever I pose in female clothes, so the contrast is notable.

      The shirt relates to my car (Fiat Abarth), not a motorcycle.

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  14. You have this mischievous, boyish look about you in these photos...maybe it's the half-smile? But I can totally see the motorcycle-loving, thrill-seeking adventurer that you are here :)

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    1. Hmm...on second thought, mischievous isn't the right word. But you're definitely exuding a youthful feel!

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    2. I went with mischievous too and I know what you mean. It was the best word I could find to identify that sparkle of youth in the eye.

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    3. You're both right in what you see. It's hard to find a good word to describe that.

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  15. I see a fantastic, bright, thoughtful individual. I am so glad you have come onto my blogger-sphere's radar. I greatly enjoy reading your posts and look forward to keeping in touch with one another!

    XxMO
    madame-ostrich.com

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  16. From the photos you've posted of your father, I'd say you're right - there's a resemblance. It's not obvious initially, but when you take a second look, it's there.

    You know, when I was first getting to know you I traveled back into some of your old entries where on occasion I'd see pictures of you in your male form sprinkled about. Something that struck me was that youlooked like a woman dressed as a man, or at least a feminine looking man - depending on the shot. So I'd have to say that I definitely always see Ally.

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    1. That's accurate. Despite my height and size, one blogger who met me in person said she was surprised at how "dainty" I seem. She perceived me (accurately, I believe) as delicate and dainty. That makes me happy, because it's the inner-me poking out.

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  17. You have very gentle, sparkling, welcoming eyes. I've been struck by that in every photos of your face that you've shared with us. Whether you were in male or female clothing, they've jumped out at me and I notice that they simultaneously seem to embody elements that feel both masculine and feminine, which I think is part of the reason they're so friendly.

    ♥ Jessica

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  18. I see more confidence in your face. I've read your blog off and on for a long time - and I definitely see how you've changed come out in your natural demeanor. Whether presenting as male or female, I think the inner-you is coming out more. As well as the gained comfort you've learned with yourself over time.

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    1. I think you're right, Megan. In fact, that's probably been the greatest benefit I've gotten from blogging.

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  19. I am always struck by your beautiful smile, no matter what you have on :)

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  20. I actually think i had not seen how beautiful your eyes are. They are the door to the soul :)

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  21. I only know you from your blog here, but you exude kindness, gentleness, and a fire for life!

    I love your free spirit and bold enjoyment of life that comes through in your blog!

    Very cool...and sweet!

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  22. i like the male you :) not only handsome, but you look sincere and thoughtful.

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  23. I see the same eyes no matter which guise you take

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  24. despite the slight beard growth I can easily see your femininity. there's something gentle & soft in your expression. your eyes do not estimate - as most men do - they take on contact.
    I really find that you shine from the inside!

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  25. I see a genuinely wonderful person ... If I had to see you in person I would want to meet you and have a cuppa coffee with you.

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  26. I see a handsome hip dude that would be super fun to hang out with. You look so friendly!!

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  27. I really enjoy your male face. There's a kindness, a sensitivity and intelligence that shows up there. Whenever you post pictures of you in male mode, I do feel a leap of joy- there goes a kind spirit I think. However I don't want to diminish your search of identity and gender exploration of your female mode. I think you, like the mythical Tiresias, having the wisdom and experience of both genders.

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  28. What actually struck me here is your black background. You rarely use it in your female form, but chose it here for your male portrait.

    Lisa.

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    1. I just bought the backdrop and was trying it out for the first time. You'll see it again.

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