Cross-dressing has been practiced since ancient times, and has been a recurring theme in the mythology, folklore, literature and theatre across numerous cultures.

People may adopt the dress of the opposite gender for reasons as varied as personal identity, disguise, provocation or humor.

Some acts of cross-dressing which were once considered transgressive and forbidden, such as women wearing pants or other male garments, are now considered unremarkable, while men adopting women’s clothing can still be subject to widespread prejudice.