Ladylike (1 results)

[LGBTQ][Transgender] Archive of 5 issues of trans and cross-dressing publication LadyLike Magazine, 1990-1997. King of Prussia, PA: Creative Design Services, 1990-2001. First printings. Staple-bound in original wrappers. A six issue archive of LadyLike, a self-described "tasteful magazine for crossdressers," offering a uniquely candid window into late 20th-century transgender and crossdressing communities in the U.S. With content ranging from fashion editorials and personal narratives to political commentary and trans-affirming advice, these magazines reflect the visibility, struggle, and evolving identities of gender-nonconforming people before mainstream representation. [1] LadyLike No. 9 (1990). Features profiles of Bridget Nickels and Stella J., a retrospective on French female impersonators, and columns on wig care and trans resources. The editor's letter by JoAnn Roberts critiques increasing censorship and anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, contextualizing the magazine's political stakes. An early, intimate glimpse into crossdresser visibility, emphasizing beauty, community, and resistance. [2] LadyLike No. 10 (1991). Featuring Jeri Jones and Marlayna Lacie, with an article on international trans identities and a personal piece titled A Wife's Tale. Roberts recounts job loss and identity disclosure, anchoring the issue in the realities of trans and crossdresser survival. Emphasizes personal storytelling as empowerment. [3] LadyLike No. 23 (1995). With profiles on Lori Larkin and Nancy Ann Burdick, and a moving essay by a trans twin navigating familial love. The editorial includes discussion of the Transgender Community Alliance Pledge, illustrating growing inter-organizational advocacy within the trans movement. Rich in visual documentation and activist language. [4] LadyLike No. 26 (1995). Highlights Gina Allen, noted as "our first African-American crossdresser," marking a rare moment of intersectional visibility. Includes segments like "The Unqualified Cheerleader" and "Flash Back" on drag history, demonstrating an expanding archival consciousness around trans cultural memory. [5] LadyLike No. 31 (1997). Features Frank Marino, billed as "the World's Greatest Female Impersonator," alongside "The TG Art of LeVaughn" and a behind-the-scenes look at the LOLA Catalog photo shoot. The editorial, penned while attending the International Congress on Sex and Gender Issues, reflects on public presentation and gender misrecognition. Pages are clean and bindings firm; covers exhibit light rubbing and faint creasing, particularly at spine folds. Interior pages show only mild toning. Overall very good to near fine condition. This archive is an exceptional and uncommon survival documenting transgender life, culture, and resistance during a critical pre-Internet period. It is of considerable value to researchers in gender studies, LGBTQ+ history, and independent publishing.