#DragQueenHistory during 1959 07 July

Hello my darlings, Emma here, ready to take you on a twirling journey back in time with my trusty, sparkly pink tutu! This month we're waltzing back to July 1959, a time when the world was spinning with excitement, and the world of drag was, dare I say, beginning to really strut its stuff.

It's been a long time since I last hopped through the time portal with this beauty – let’s have a moment to admire my perfectly pink, feather-trimmed masterpiece – and it's about time we paid a visit to a time when drag truly blossomed into its own exciting art form. So buckle up, lovelies, as we embark on a sartorial adventure!

July 1959, darling, was all about making waves. In America, we saw the launch of the "Laugh-In" era of comedy – think the sassy, silly antics of your favourite Drag Queens – and this was a significant turning point for both entertainment and societal attitudes. Imagine, a time when the laughs could start to bridge those awkward "other" gaps! A world full of drag performers sharing that humour and joy across cultures – wouldn't that be magnificent?!

Over in the UK, a bit of a fuss was kicking up about a little show called “Hair – yes, that Hair. They were showing this production at the Theatre Royal in London. Think bright lights, elaborate costumes, and more importantly, a real statement of defiance against social norms. In this era, even the mention of the word Hair (much less seeing it on a stage) caused quite the commotion! Now, darling, can you imagine the sheer audacity? Why, we just love a little rebellion, don’t we? And this was a bold move, challenging conformity and setting the stage for the liberation and acceptance that followed.

Of course, this adventurous Emma wasn't just reading about this revolution in the papers - I was there! It's always the most fun to experience history firsthand.

Let's have a look at my fabulous outfit! This time I donned a shimmering tutu, pink, of course, but sprinkled with iridescent sequins. They were a gift from a charming chap in Derby. We found each other over a shared love of sequins and laughter. You've got to love a bit of Derby banter! This magnificent tutu had a touch of ballet-inspired, but with that undeniable "extra" I love for the stage. Because a little extra never hurts.

Now, naturally, when I’m back in the glorious '59, I had to head for a show. Imagine the excitement! And the absolute joy to find so many exciting talents performing in clubs and even, whisper it, some rather fabulous underground shows.

Oh darling, a tiny basement space filled with laughter and amazing outfits! It was quite a thing, truly! Think sequins, laughter, and the occasional feather! You see, the "drag scene" in the '59 was far from a huge stage production - but what it lacked in grandeur, it made up for with heart, joy, and a wild spirit that dared to push boundaries.

A particular memory I have… it was at a fabulous show in Greenwich Village, New York. The sheer excitement was electric, and it’s there I encountered the absolute legend of drag, Crystal Labeija! Darling, this was a real life legend, known for their glamour and fashion, this performer embodied the elegance and artistry of drag. Their costumes were like pieces of art, crafted with precision and style. Their make-up… stunning! A perfect symphony of colours that brought their visage to life! Crystal taught me to love glamour and never, ever, ever skimp on makeup. I mean, glamour takes time, but it's so very worth it.

This journey back in time, to those formative days of the drag scene, has made me realise just how much drag has blossomed! The freedom, the creativity, the acceptance…. and the glitter. It's been quite the adventure to experience it, and I can’t wait for what the future holds.

Now, before you go and leave my lovely blog, why not browse my fabulous “Pink Tutu” fashion range? My team has been crafting some exquisite designs for your summer wardrobe - and they just scream a touch of ‘50s charm…with an Emma twist. You'll want one, I promise!

Don't forget to come back next month, and we'll be taking a whirl through another fabulous date in Drag history. And my lovelies, remember…. wear your pink tutus with pride! The world needs a little pink fluff and twirls!