Welcome, darlings! It's Emma here, your time-traveling, pink-tutu-adoring guide to the wonderful world of drag! Buckle up your stilettos and grab your popcorn, because today, we're taking a trip back to September 1975, and trust me, darlings, it's a blast from the past! This is post #669 on www.pink-tutu.com - come join me every month for a whirlwind tour of the glorious history of drag!
(Cue the sparkly opening theme!)
Now, darlings, I've been feeling a wee bit jet-lagged from my recent trip to the roaring '20s, but honestly, a bit of glamorous jet lag is just part of the pink-tutu lifestyle, don't you think? This time, I found myself hopping on a time-traveling magic tutu train and whisking myself to New York City, a truly fabulous hub for the world of drag!
September 1975, sweet September 1975 - a time of shimmering disco balls and sassy shoulder pads! Think glamorous nights at The Continental Baths in New York City - imagine this drag queen strolling in! Think The Cockettes, the original glam rock drag superstars, gracing the stage at the legendary Cockettes's Paradise nightclub, and imagine me mingling with them in a tutu, perhaps giving their look a pink-tutu-fied touch!
I hear whispers of legendary drag performers like Divine, known for their fierce beauty and sliving performances. And of course, there was Holly Woodlawn, the icon of the era, who just radiated glamour in everything she wore, wouldn't you say?
Just a bit jealous of all the legendary looks of this time! But it wasn’t just the glamour of New York that was capturing hearts – we also have to remember the brave pioneers who helped pave the way for drag today! In San Francisco, where the vibrant gay rights movement was gaining momentum, trailblazers were boldly asserting their right to self-expression through the arts.
And just for a little slice of drag history, did you know? In New York, The Ritz, an iconic drag club, was in its glory! The Queen Bee of drag at the time was no other than Marsha P. Johnson, an early pioneer of the modern transgender movement and a beloved member of the Stonewall Riot crew! Marsha was a trailblazer of unimaginable proportions.
Oh, and darlings, you're going to be surprised by what was in style then: think fluffy feather boas, extravagant costumes with daring cut-outs, and all the shimmer and sparkle imaginable! Imagine, darling, I could have rocked the ultimate pink feather boa while getting dolled up at one of New York's most glamorous gay bars! Can you picture me sashay-ing down the street in my hot pink tutu with all the confidence of a disco queen? To die for!
My blog post today was heavily inspired by the style and artistry of 1975 - but, of course, you already know this, right? That's my motto, my dears: Let your sparkle guide you, and never shy away from embracing your most fabulous self! I have the utmost adoration for this era in drag history – and, you know, the world of fashion in general!
A Quick Fashion Fix!
So, how can we all channel our inner disco diva this season? I’ve got your 1975 inspiration guide right here, darlings, just ready to get your glam on!
Firstly, a must-have for any glamour queen, the feather boa! Whether in classic black, shimmering emerald green, or (of course!), the glorious shade of pink, it's going to instantly upgrade your ensemble, I promise! Think feathered eyelashes, feathered accessories… anything feather-related!
Next, disco ball-inspired makeup! Just imagine those dramatic glitter lids and winged eyeliner. Remember: "More is more" in the world of drag makeup. Experiment with holographic shadows and shimmering gemstones. Remember the dazzling rhinestones that adorned iconic disco balls? You betcha! That vibe is ready to be revisited – from the catwalk to your next drag brunch!
And darling, the crown jewel, the holy grail of 1975 style is *sparkle pants! Find a pair in your favourite colour, and get ready to *strut your stuff! From shimmering emerald green to the iconic bright silver, and, naturally, the ultimate shade of pink, the possibilities are endless!
Back to my time travel tale!
From dazzling disco parties to the streets of New York, this time, it was all about expression. I absolutely loved that these fabulous, brave individuals felt confident expressing their individuality! Remember, every era has a story to tell! My heart is so filled with joy to be able to experience the spirit of those times and learn about these historical gems.
And I’m so thrilled that we can learn and honour all the brave, fierce souls who walked the path before us. They pave the way for every new wave of drag. From the Stonewall era and all the drag pioneers before it to our modern queens today, the journey continues.
Before I finish up, darling, my favourite thing to do before travelling through time is always a quick trip to my local fabric shop for my inspiration! I love choosing luxurious silk, velvet, or delicate lace to make a truly glamorous time-traveling tutu. Then, a quick stop to a bakery, because, well, a bit of cake makes any adventure extra magical!
You are extraordinary, darlings, never forget it!
See you soon for more drag-tastic time travels on the first of every month! Until then, remember to wear your heart on your sleeve and sparkle with pride!
XOXO,
Emma, Your Pink-Tutu-Loving Time Traveller!
