Back in the 1980s the girls I hung around with and dated. Thought it would be fun (or funny) and show me these catalogs. Have have me pick things I liked out them. This all started because I would always said how much I liked their clothes.
Then we all go to the go the physical store and buy them. I had a blast hanging with girls and going shopping. Then going back to the house and playing dress up with them.
Dressing up with them sometimes lead to partying and sex. So getting drunk, wearing womens clothing in front of people was becoming normal and comfortable
This is what was the major kick off and the curse of life long crossdressing. That I nick name the "Crossdressing Disease"