Founded in 1960 by activist and author Virginia Prince, Transvestia was the first widely-distributed magazine dedicated to the cross-dressing and transgender community in the United States. Published bi-monthly in Los Angeles by Chevalier Publications, it served as a vital, pre-internet lifeline for readers to network, share life stories, and find community. Transvestia provided a safe, educational forum for its readers to discuss their identities and establish a sense of mental security. Prince used Transvestia as a foundation to build an extended real-life network for her readers. In 1962, she established Phi Pi Epsilon (FPE, also standing for Full Personality Expression). This national social sorority later evolved into Tri-Ess (the Society for the Second Self), an international cross-dressing organization that is still active today.

Prince used $$100 raised from 25 friends to launch the magazine. To protect the privacy of early subscribers, the first two issues were published as pocket-sized pamphlets that could easily be concealed. As the editor-in-chief, Prince produced 100 issues over two decades. The magazine featured articles, poetry, fiction, comics, photos, and personal letters from readers. In 1980, Prince sold the publication to Carol Beecroft, who expanded its focus to include the broader trans community. Beecroft continued to edit and publish the magazine until it ceased production in 1986.