TBFS Girls: Meet Melissa Honey

What’s your name? What are your pronouns? Where are you located?

I picked out the name, Melissa Honey, long ago. Melissa is a feminine name derived from the Greek word for "honeybee", thus I thought why not end my name with Honey. It seemed to be who I saw in the mirror besides it sounded special. I go by the pronouns she/her.

I’m located in the province of British Columbia, Canada, on the lovely westcoast, in a city that is very supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. It hosts many activities during Pride in the month of June and it all ends with a colourful parade.

What’s your favorite thing about expressing your feminine side?

Expression of oneself comes in many forms both physical and mental. Expressing your true gender identity is critical to living as your authentic self. LGBTQ+ individuals experience unique gender intersections that shape their understanding of femininity. I was born male but never truly felt comfortable in the body I’ve inherited. Having many years of experiencing interactions while dressed in the community, has shaped me, to recognize, simply dawning a dress, makeup and wig, doesn’t completely fulfill my expectations of what is femininity is. What I now understand, it’s also how you interact, respond, physically move, share your feelings and love who you are. When I dress I keep these thoughts in mind. I enjoy creating my version of femininity. It has all the classics of making the illusion real, smooth and hairless skin, shape wear, a garter belt and stockings over pantyhose. Breast forms with a push up bra. Makeup which I call, soft mid day glam but full on glam for evening outings. Accessories means accessorize! A wig with highlights preferably blonde over brunette but that can be seasonal as well. A dress over jeans and definitely defiant high heels of some kind. A jacket, a purse and a selection of lipsticks to go. Once the transformation is complete, I can settle into my feminine side, I move differently, I feel different and I believe I’ve accomplished my favourite thing about expressing my feminine side is seeing a woman in the mirror, respectfully represented in both mind and body.

How would you describe your style?

I like to think my style is classic with a modern twist. Sensory perception of sensual versus sexual. Mind you there are the moments of dressing, indulging oneself in something satin, something sexy, very feminine lingerie and nothing more. I have many dresses, heels and wigs which allow me to create the fashion statement I want to express at that moment. From mini, midi to maxi, the fun is slipping into a dress, pop over to the mirror, look yourself up and down and a little from behind, before making a decision and saying yes to the dress. I always adored the style of Sophia Lauren but moving with the times. I love the style of the House Wife’s of Beverly Hills, or maybe I should say I’m jealous of all the outfits they get to wear! I could lounge around all day once I’ve finished my makeover! However, what is more fun is going out shopping, doing my daily routine or getting the odd evening to glam and then show and tell at a bar or club. I’m definitely not your girl next door, as I rather like the chic, with a twist of glamorous around the edges.

Where are your favorite places to shop?

The retail store is called Melanie Lynn Clothing. They are a bit more upscale with amazing dresses that catch your eye for style with an edge. The staff are delightful and helpful in selecting a dress or blouse that works with your body. Online, I use Le Chateau and Suzy Shier because they had great sales and return policies.

What piece of advice would you share to someone starting dressing?

Go for it! It’s been a fun ride once you get over the “why am I going this” question. The answer to yourself should be, “because I enjoy dressing”.

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