Whilst it would be nice - in a flattering, ego boosting kind of way - for men to approach you instead of you doing the work; it wouldn't actually be better.
With you doing the work, you're more in control, more proactive, and when done right you're more in the choosing role. With it generally being better to be the chooser instead of the chosen.
Read Argov's Why Men Love *****es. It's a misleadingly titled book as the behaviour advised in the book isn't that of a ***** at all. It's the behaviour of a pleasant, good fun to be with woman that's assertive and isn't a doormat nor a pushover.
You have the foundations to have a great dating life.
Watch some videos from leading dating coaches on how to approach (eg Todd V, Dan Bacon). Most of them will be geared towards men approaching women, but the advice and guidance can be used to great effect for women approaching men.
Approaching in an incompetent way is a recipe for disappointment and frustration.
Approaching in a competent way is a recipe for success.
Do you think the bullying is still affecting you?
I really hate bullies. It's worth reminding yourself that when you were bullied, the issue was with the bullies, not you.
Every 18 to 20 year old man that I've come across, including myself, has been a rather sub-optimum boyfriend. With the lack of maturity showing through in how they interact with women. IE don't expect them to be to be the finished article. Your laid back attitude and ability to laugh at things will help a lot with dealing with the drama that they will inject into your life.
For your appearance, do whatever's best for you. A combination of most practical and what you like the look of on yourself. Mixed with a bit of pragmatism. As in; a well fitting thigh length dress will be more eye-catching than baggy jeans and an oversized hoodie.