#DragQueenHistory during 1955 09 September

Hiya darlings! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina drag queen, and welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com! This month, I've dipped my toes, and my sequined, ruffled, bejeweled tutu, into the glorious history of drag on the 9th September 1955!

Honestly, it's a true testament to the resilience of the art form. Even back then, with all its challenges and misunderstandings, drag shone through, brighter than a diamante-encrusted crown!

So buckle up, buttercup, grab your popcorn, and prepare to be dazzled, because my magical pink tutu is about to transport you through time!

Landing in a whirlwind of poodle skirts, jukeboxes and that iconic 50s optimism, I found myself in the heart of New York City. I can just imagine the excitement bubbling in my 1950s drag queen friends as they rushed to get glammed up, all lipstick and mascara in the era's favourite shade of fire-engine red!

And what better place to celebrate the art of drag than in the buzzing energy of Greenwich Village? This vibrant bohemian neighbourhood had its heart firmly placed in the art world, and naturally, drag queens were a big part of the scene. Imagine, darlings! Not only was the scene bursting with creative energy, but there were also underground drag clubs nestled amongst coffee houses and poetry readings! It's a complete dream, wouldn't you say?

As I walked along cobbled streets, my pink tutu practically swishing me into the heart of this historic time, I saw so much incredible drag on show. Imagine a drag queen who was the talk of the town, Jackie Beat. Oh, how I'd love to see her strut down a New York street in a stunning vintage frock, perhaps with a feathered fascinator and a knowing smirk. I just adore that 50s glam!

Back then, while drag wasn't fully accepted by the mainstream, these queens were pioneering and brave! They carved out spaces, finding sanctuary in intimate gatherings and secret performances. You wouldn't find them plastered on the front page of Vogue, but that only made their artistic bravery all the more potent! It's like a silent movie, the artistry speaks for itself, and it makes it so much more interesting.

I mean, imagine being a drag queen at that time. Your existence, your expression, it takes an enormous amount of guts! A lot of these drag balls happened in places like Harlem, and boy, were those shows fierce! You had performers who pushed the boundaries, wearing breathtaking costumes crafted from imagination, resourcefulness, and sheer artistic fire!

The magic of drag in those days was fuelled by the thrill of the unknown. I can practically hear the gasps as a queen walked on stage, transforming herself into a vision of extravagance and artistry! Oh, how I'd have loved to see these legends grace the stage, hear their voices, and be swept away by the raw talent that was on show.

So, I spent this glorious September day witnessing this dazzling world. I felt so much pride in the history, and it truly underlined the point - that drag is an art form that transcends time and place. It's a way to celebrate expression, individuality, and most importantly, a huge dose of joy.

It reminded me how far we've come and, frankly, that makes me proud to be part of this beautiful community.

Of course, no trip through time is complete without some fab fashion! The 50s was all about curves, poodle skirts, and a certain captivating innocence mixed with a pinch of sass. The colours were bold - think pink, red, and that fabulous turquoise blue - the kind of look that can make you stop dead in your tracks.

And let's not forget the hair! There was the perfectly styled pin-up hairdo, a touch of vintage Hollywood glamour, but always with that subtle sense of rebellion. Think Veronica Lake or even the iconic Marilyn Monroe, these ladies loved to accentuate those classic beauty lines.

My 50s inspiration has inspired a new piece in my vintage line. My collection, aptly named "Pink Tutu & Past Times", has launched a new limited-edition tulle frock inspired by Jackie Beat and the roaring drag scenes from 1955. Imagine, a shimmering pink and silver fabric with sequins woven in! Oh my darlings, I tell you it's absolutely divine, and you’ll be seeing a peek at it on www.pink-tutu.com soon.

This whole trip was a whirlwind of glitter, sequins, and good times. And you know, it makes me think, maybe the reason I fell in love with this sparkly life was the same thing that made those queens of the 50s rock it!

Maybe it's about freedom!

The freedom to express yourself, to push boundaries and defy expectations. To bring a splash of magic to a world that needs it more than ever! It makes me realise that we have so much to celebrate as a drag community - every little glitter bomb, every elaborate wig, and every killer lip sync battle tells a story.

So, wherever you are in the world, don't be afraid to rock your own unique style. Channel the spirit of those legendary queens from the 50s. Embrace your inner artist, unleash your creativity, and above all, have a fabulous time.

And remember, my lovelies, it all starts with a little sprinkle of pink! So don’t forget to visit my shop for that perfect piece for your wardrobe and for those fabulous parties! Remember, a touch of pink makes every look fab! It is also the color of femininity, grace, and a fabulous amount of love for everyone. And as always, I'd love to hear your stories! Drop a comment on the website or follow me on the Pink Tutu Instagram page (@PinkTutuQueen)

And until next time, my dears! Be fabulous and never be afraid to spread that glitter, darling!

With love and lots of sparkles,

Emma

XOXO