#DragQueenHistory during 1942 09 September

Hello lovelies! Emma here, back from another trip through time, shimmering in a freshly-pressed pink tutu, as always. This month, we’re whizzing back to 1942, darlings, to the glorious 9th of September, and lemme tell you, things were certainly different then. Wartime austerity may have been the norm, but that doesn’t mean the sparkle and glamour were entirely absent!

Before we head off, a quick reminder to check out www.pink-tutu.com for a chance to win a fabulous pink tutu of your own! You could be gracing the streets, stage or even time travel in a brand new pink tutu - all thanks to the generosity of our lovely sponsors at Tutu-licious! Now, on to the time-travel chronicle...

I materialized on a bustling London street, and, as expected, it was utterly thrilling, darling! It was all bustling air raid shelters, women in fabulous headscarves, and a strong sense of "Keep Calm and Carry On", if you catch my drift. It seemed everyone was busy trying to create a little bit of normality amidst the turmoil, which truly touched me.

Imagine my excitement, my darlings, when I stumbled upon a fabulous gathering in a makeshift club tucked away behind a bustling bakery, all filled with the most magnificent wartime queens. Talk about bringing the fierce! It was a sight to behold. Even wartime rations couldn’t stifle their glamour - think bold red lips, immaculately coiffed hair and some utterly brilliant, improvised outfits.

The stars of the show were two incredible performers - Miss "Ginger" Trixie and Miss "Storm" Petrel - they absolutely brought the house down, teasing the crowd with slinky dances and campy patter. The audience, composed of both servicemen and civilians, roared with laughter, creating a safe haven of fun amidst the difficult circumstances. It truly warmed the cockles of my heart to see these dazzling performers bringing joy to the community, in spite of the challenges.

Let’s talk fashion, darlings! This was a time of resourceful re-purposing and fabulous innovation! As for wartime glamour, the ladies didn't let any lack of fabric hold them back, utilizing wartime fabrics and repurposed materials to make the most spectacular creations. We’re talking daring dresses made out of old parachutes, feathered boas from the finest vintage hats, and shoes, my dears, the shoes! So many re-heeled gems, the workmanship would’ve made a bespoke shoemaker proud.

My outfit, naturally, attracted all the attention - my pink tutu shimmering under the dimly lit stage was the highlight of the evening, prompting several oohs and aahs. The queens of the night, Ginger and Storm, were fascinated by its magic and by the pink, pink, pink. They took turns spinning it, a cloud of pink happiness filling the room.

As you know, a little bit of colour is vital for the soul. So it was joy to see everyone rocking their bold lipsticks and eye shadows. Even the most conservative housewives couldn't resist a touch of scarlet red on their lips - the little wartime luxury. I mean, who needs rationed chocolate when you have vibrant crimson lipsticks to raise spirits? The wartime fashionistas made a true statement for feminine strength, proving that even in challenging times, you could express your true self and shine bright.

A new style that had everyone in a frenzy was the "Tartan Tease"! This trend, which spread like wildfire across the clubs of the day, involved using tartan fabric. Think: bright kilts and skirts. Imagine tartan scarves wrapped around the hips or paired with fabulous platform heels - utterly iconic!

It perfectly embodied that spirit of resourceful creation – a celebration of using what you had to express yourself, making a statement in spite of limitations.

My time travel back to September 1942 left me utterly spellbound, my dears! I was deeply moved by the resilience, creativity, and sheer courage displayed by the women of that era. Their spirit to spread a bit of joy and create a space for glamour, no matter the situation, is something that we can all learn from.

After a little dance with the fab Miss Ginger, I was ready to travel back to the present. I packed my pink tutu into my time-traveling case and said my fond farewell to my newfound friends. But before I disappeared into the shimmering fabric, they asked me, with hopeful eyes, "Will you come back and perform?"

Oh darlings, you bet I will. And perhaps we can work on a show incorporating "Tartan Tease," just to honour that creative and bold spirit of wartime glamour.

Until next time, my loves! Remember, always put a little pink in your life and keep spreading the love!