But wait, we lesbians are pretty darned fabulous too, and it’s our turn to get in on the fun. Just because nobody’s exactly offering us our own prime time slot yet doesn’t mean we don’t have a few

	Lose the platforms and place practicality over panache.

precious pearls of sisterly wisdom to toss into the melting pot. Now that the gay cat is out of the bag, so to speak (more on cats coming up), we’ve convened a lesbian dream team to beat the band.

So sit down, straight girl. We’ve got a few sisterly style points to share, and by the looks of things, you could really use the advice:

Rethink the shoes
Like good tires for your car, shoes should provide high performance, good traction and a stable ride. Maybe even off-road capabilities! Teetering along on tenuous heels and complaining that your corns are killing you is out. Nowadays, it’s all about being ready-for-anything, from a spin around the Salsa club, to a bop down Bourbon Street, to a trek along the beach. And hey, if there’s one thing lesbians are famous for, it’s understanding the finer points of sensible shoes. Take it from the pros: Lose the platforms and place practicality over panache. You’ll be amazed at the places your happy feet will take you.

Sure up the handshake
News flash: The limp fish is dead. Next time you say, “it’s nice to meet you,” look your intended in the eye, smile and shake hands like you actually mean it. No, no need to become a bone-crusher. But remember, first impressions carry a lot of punch, and a confident handshake

Make the time to stay connected with long-term women friends.

says you are a confident person. Regardless of what team you play for, a little suave self-assurance can be a very sexy thing.

Get a cat
Nobody understands the pure divinity of sensuous touch like a cat. No matter how warm and fuzzy your boyfriend or husband is, we’ll bet he’s not climbing up into your lap and dissolving in raptures of purring and pure pleasure on an everyday basis. So what’s a little pet hair on your black pants? Rather than vying for the remote and complaining about the cooking show, a kitty will get with the program and bliss out in your loving arms while you watch whatever your heart desires.

Cultivate community
Female friends are gold. In a world where romantic relationships can come and go, a strong support network of platonic female friends will help keep your feet on the ground. Make the time to stay connected with long-term women friends, and you will always have a sister to turn to when you need a buddy for a great adventure, a shoulder to cry on or a little levelheaded advice.

Analise Pendergast is a freelance writer who frequently contributes to Happen magazine.