Hello darlings! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu wearing, time-traveling, drag-loving blogger. This month, we're swirling back to November 1999, and let me tell you, the world of drag was buzzing like a hive of busy honeybees!
As always, my magical pink tutu whisked me away, the glitter catching the fading autumn sun as I travelled back through time. And wouldn't you know it, my arrival coincided with the opening night of a groundbreaking show in New York!
The Big Apple's Glittering Gem: "Wigstock '99"I arrived in the heart of Manhattan, the energy palpable as the iconic "Wigstock" festival kicked off! The streets pulsed with the beat of the music, and I swear, you could feel the glitter on the breeze! Now, darling, Wigstock was more than just a show, it was a MOVEMENT! This was a glorious gathering of drag, trans, and queer artists, showcasing their artistry and talent under the New York sky. Imagine, my dears, a sprawling outdoor drag celebration, with queens and kings in full regalia, dancing and performing under the sun!
I remember the scene vividly: vibrant colours, shimmering costumes, and the joyous roar of the crowd. It was pure drag ecstasy! Amongst the many stellar performers, a new wave of queens were making their mark, like the fierce and fabulous RuPaul, who was well on her way to drag icon status. Let's just say, she stole the show in a glittery sequined outfit that would have put even a disco ball to shame!
Wigstock '99 was an unforgettable testament to the power and diversity of drag culture, showcasing a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming stars. And let's be honest, the scene in New York in the late 90s was a melting pot of creativity and daring fashion, inspiring young drag queens like me!
Beyond the Big Apple: Drag Flourishes Globally!Of course, the world of drag wasn't confined to just New York. While in the States, drag was bursting at the seams with creativity and visibility, the scene across the pond was steadily evolving, too! Back home in my lovely Derbyshire, England, the local drag scene was definitely picking up pace! While London had always been a hub for fabulous drag, more regional venues were embracing the art of drag, creating a network of talented performers all eager to entertain!
The drag scene was truly embracing diversity – from camp and theatrical to high-fashion and avant-garde. This is where it gets exciting, darlings. While drag was traditionally performed in pubs and clubs, new avenues were opening up, with venues branching out into theaters and community spaces. Imagine the impact! This allowed for larger audiences, wider visibility, and more opportunities for drag queens to connect with their communities.
Back Home, Feeling the SparkleBack in my humble Derbyshire town, I remember the thrill of seeing drag shows at a local pub! The queens were true trailblazers, blending classic drag elements with a cheeky and relatable humour that drew us in! We all got caught up in the joy of the shows – the dazzling costumes, the comedic routines, the undeniable glamour – it was the perfect escape. We knew that we weren't alone in our passion for all things drag, and it felt fantastic!
Remember darlings, I firmly believe that everyone can embrace a bit of drag, even just by popping on a pink tutu! It's about having fun, expressing yourself, and celebrating individuality. This is precisely why I feel such a connection to the drag scene, be it the electrifying shows, the captivating storytelling, the artistic expression - it's an exhilarating and positive force!
What Was Hot In The World of Fashion?Speaking of fashion, November 1999 was all about glitz and glamour. The runways were abuzz with bold colours, shiny fabrics, and playful cuts, a trend that definitely resonated in the drag scene. Think sequins, feathers, and a dash of drama - because who doesn't love a good splash of theatricality?! It’s no surprise that a pink tutu was my go-to for this trip, darling!
And then there was the makeup. Oh, the makeup! Shimmery eyeshadows, bold lipstick colours, and perfectly sculpted eyebrows were the essential elements of the 90s drag aesthetic. Just look at those incredible images of queens with dramatic smoky eyes and bold lips. Absolutely iconic!
My Own Pink Tutu Adventures!To wrap things up, darlings, let me tell you, November 1999 was quite a journey! I met some incredibly inspiring drag queens, saw breathtaking shows, and even indulged in some serious retail therapy (what else does a drag queen do on a time-travel escapade?!). It was truly a fantastic trip through the wonderful world of drag.
I've just received a little birdie’s message saying there’s a new drag show happening in Derbyshire tonight! With my pink tutu all prepped and ready to go, I'm off to catch the latest show and witness the local drag scene in all its glory. Until next month, darlings, keep it fabulous and don't forget, everyone can embrace a touch of drag, even just by slipping on a pink tutu!
Your time-traveling, tutu-loving friend,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
