Introducing our Eye Candy of the month: Amandah Opal
In this exclusive feature, Amandah shares her journey, fashion insights, and the joy of living authentically. Whether it’s getting dolled up for a night out or perfecting the ultimate photoshoot, she has plenty of wisdom and charm to inspire. Keep reading to get to know this incredible beauty!
Let’s start by telling everyone where you are from?
Hi there, I’m very grateful to Glamour Boutique for providing me this opportunity. Thank you!
I live in Bangalow, a delightful historic village on the east coast of Australia. The surrounding verdant landscapes, surfing beaches and subtropical climate attracts heaps of visitors from all over the planet.
The region is renowned for its bohemian mix of musicians, artists, film stars, socialites, and creatives who for the greater part are accepting of our LGBTQIA+ communities. I’m pretty much out to most of the village and haven’t had any negative experiences to date … fingers crossed!
When did you first start dressing and how did it come about?
My story begins in my early twenties as a student, intrigued by the sweet insanity/shenanigans of Frank-N-Furter in the Rocky Horror Picture Show… after which any excuse to dress and party was game on, and which fuelled my romance with dressing. However, from an early age I was fascinated by my mother’s sense of style and presentation, and while I don’t have any recollection of dressing in my youth, I loved the smell of perfume, her beautifully manicured and painted nails, the accessories she had, etc. I guess I learnt a lot from her!
How did you come up with your Femme name?
It’s a play on A-man-duh! Opal being my birth stone.
How often do you dress?
I identify as non-binary, and present daily as my androgynous-femme self. My go to wardrobe is skinny and straight cut jeans, gym tights, skirts and tops made for women. I’ll often wear makeup, typically a light foundation and regularly paint my nails. Sure, I love to get dolled up too……. These days it’s never more than once or twice a month.
Are you married/in a relationship? If yes, are you able to share your female self with your partner?
I count myself fortunate to have a wonderful woman partner, and four grown children, who accept me to openly share my feminine self with them. Interestingly, most of the extended family, my daughter’s boyfriends and girlfriends accept me and many follow me on social media. I really love the younger generations, typically they are far more accepting and the bulk of the supporting comments coming from them. Just lovely and regardless, who doesn’t love a compliment every now and then!
Tell us what goes into getting the perfect photo?
Preparation and practice…… Yawn… I know!
I follow these simple rules: smile and position yourself within the frame, good even indirect lighting, set focus and take loads of snaps. The biggest let down with a lot of images are poor backgrounds: often repetitive, untidy and dare I say it “drab”. Be experimental, and review fashion sites for inspiration. Almost all my images are shot on my iPhone with a tripod. I make use of a clever app which links the iPhone camera to my iPad allowing me to review my progress during the shoot. Lastly, take your time and enjoy every wonderful moment!
What are some of your favorite outfits/fashions?
Probably best described as an eclectic carefree contemporary style. The caveat being that I must feel comfortable head to toe and look appropriate for my age. My wardrobe is based on everyday items, which are accessorized with coats, jackets, belts, scarves, and jewellery. I can’t say I identify with any favorites, I guess part of the ride is to develop your own style. It’s always a WIP and fun!
Stockings or pantyhose?
Pantyhose with skirts always and short stockings with long pants. However, if my legs are tanned I’ll simply heavily moisturise them if wearing a short skirt.
Heels or flats?
No preference really as it depends on the outfit and occasion! With straight cut jeans and pants I typically like a short boot with 3” heel, and with skinnies a white sports shoe. With skirts usually a pump with closed toe and 3-4” heel.
Favorite places to go when dressed?
Shopping!…… followed by dinner, theatre or dancing with my partner and friends. By way of a heads up if you ever get a chance to visit Leeds UK for their Leeds First Fridays experience…… don’t miss it!
If you have social media, what is the best way for others to follow you?
My handle on Instagram is @amandahopal and on Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/196305640@N05/
Before we go, would you like to send a message to your fellow girls out there or a closing statement.
Gosh life flies by so embrace and enjoy every moment that makes you feel happy! The chance to boogie the night away in LBD and heels is not to be missed!!!! That said, I’m mindful we need to be wise in challenging the stereotypical biases of the sex-based binary. In doing so we illustrate there’s more to gender in paving the way for future generations of LGBTQIA+ humans to live their best lives. Hopefully we show others — especially those who may be biased or judgmental — that their attitudes are theirs alone and can evolve for the better. In this regard Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Supreme Court Judge, and women’s rights advocate, put it so well “Fight for the things you care about… but do it in a way that will lead others to follow you.” Hold the line in showing kindness to others and ourselves always…… warm regards -Amandah
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