Hi and welcome Kiki!
A Shadow Fem Trooper? Sounds great
You're MUCH braver than me, especially with your Leia outfit! Have you considered joining the Rebel Legion with it?
http://www.rebellegion.com/forum/index.php then you could 'troop' with us 'officially' at events where both the 501st and RL's are invited
I know our local rebel scum, Jedi Ray, would be happy to introduce you to their circle.
Always nice to have another girl around to keep these boys in check
There are a handful of really beautiful costumes for women in the 501st, if you change your mind about going for approval. The Female Tusken Raider
for one. Or Boushh, (Leia's costume when she rescues Han from Jabba's Palace) just to name a couple. It all depends how much you want to invest in the hobby and your motivation.
Personally I never get sick of "OMG Youre a GIRL?!" when you're in full TK gear, collecting donations, and stop to say thank you. *tsk* I think its the voice that gives me away...
Anyway, as everyone has said, definitely get along to an AP
I'll be happy to bring along my TK if you would like to take a look at the webbing system. The next one coming up is Willza's on the 8th.