#DragQueenHistory during 2010 08

Hello, my darlings! Welcome back to the ever-spinning, always shimmering, wonderfully whimsical world of Pink-Tutu.com! It's your girl, Emma, here, fresh from another mind-blowing jaunt through the glorious, technicolour tapestry of drag history. Today we're waltzing our way back to August 2010, darlings, and oh my, what a whirlwind of glitter and glamour we’ve stumbled upon!

Firstly, let me confess - I’ve had this little pink hankering to explore this particular period for a while now. August 2010 feels like a sweet spot in drag history, you know? It was before things got too saturated with reality television - not that I have anything against it, mind you! But August 2010 was all about the gritty, fierce, and fabulous energy of the underground. Let's just say my sequins were tingling with anticipation!

So, strap on your sparkly stilettos and let's take a trip, shall we?

As usual, my trusty pink tutu had been working overtime, whisking me away in a swirl of feather boas and rainbow sprinkles. (The secret to time travel, darling, is a dash of pixie dust and a generous helping of pink sparkle. Trust me!). We landed in a whirlwind of urban excitement, right in the heart of a vibrant, bustling, and undeniably camp-tastic drag scene!

## Drag Divas Dominate

We’re talking about New York City, baby! The Big Apple in 2010 was overflowing with drag queens. You couldn't turn a corner without bumping into a glamorous goddess ready to shimmy, sashay, and steal your heart. Drag balls were the heartbeat of the scene - a spectacle of fashion, artistry, and pure untamed joy. I simply had to go.

And let me tell you, darling, I was floored. The talent was absolutely mind-blowing. These queens weren't just entertainers; they were revolutionaries. Pushing boundaries, challenging perceptions, and showing the world that drag was not just about make-up and feathers; it was about raw talent, boundless creativity, and unapologetic self-expression.

There was such an abundance of fierce femininity: Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" had been released the year before, and drag queens were experimenting with avant-garde, glam looks, while also holding onto those classic, powerful silhouettes that always look iconic. I spied a few tutus on some of the runway looks, and that just thrilled this tutu-obsessed queen!

Of course, the spotlight shone on legendary names that have truly defined drag history. Rupaul’s Drag Race, Season 2, was kicking off this month! Oh my gosh, can you imagine?! I was in my element, dancing in a pink feather boa and channeling the essence of Raven!

And there were others who were carving their own niches: Latrice Royale was gracing the stage with her comedic charm and larger-than-life personality, while Bianca Del Rio, (a real fashionista, dear) was turning heads with her sarcastic wit and captivating style.

But it wasn't just about the established names. New faces were bursting onto the scene with a boldness and audacity that could make even the most seasoned queens quiver! I spent the whole day at a Drag Ball, soaking it all in. Let me tell you, honey, drag in the Big Apple was a spectacle to behold!

## Time to Shine a Spotlight On London!

New York was certainly an experience, but, London was also humming with an undeniable drag vibe in August 2010. From the East End to the West End, every night was a drag-tastic party. It was around this time that the legendary drag queen, Divine, was tragically leaving us at the young age of 69! I found out later this day that John Waters - Divine’s favourite director, and long-time friend - had been reminiscing about Divine the day before. What a lovely, yet tragic, cosmic event!

The underground drag scene was truly thriving in London at that time. The likes of Jonny Woo and the team at The Box - a super glamorous cabaret nightclub in Soho - were taking it upon themselves to celebrate everything theatrical, wild, and daring. In many ways, they’re the same artists pushing for queer acceptance and representation today.

And who could forget about the legend of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”, darling? Ru was the reigning drag superstar. That series, (yes, Season 2!) was the talk of the town. London was truly soaking up that American magic - it made for such a fun time, a great mix of British and American queer sensibilities.

Now, of course, my little pink tutu was having a fabulous time in the big city! As I gazed upon the bold outfits of the London scene, I had to take some notes for my future tutu designs. Those daring feathers and flowing fabrics - I need to add them to my repertoire!

From what I saw, it felt like 2010 had this whole 80s throwback fashion moment happening, with oversized, dramatic shoulder pads, big hair, and a whole lotta glitz! And of course, what’s better than a tutu and a pair of killer heels, dear?! (They’re still totally timeless!)

The queens were truly unafraid to experiment. And who wouldn't be inspired by a drag scene that felt so open, accepting, and brimming with so much creativity?!

Oh my, London's vibrant drag scene led to an exciting adventure through the bustling shops of Oxford Street, darling! I scooped up a few stunning outfits from iconic drag-friendly stores: Betty Jackson’s glamorous pieces, (what a classic!), and the fun-loving fashion of House of Holland. But honestly, my darling, it's all about embracing personal style, about owning it and turning every head in sight, isn’t it?

But this blog wouldn’t be complete without a sprinkle of magic, my dears. As I finished my shopping trip, I stumbled upon a fabulous, glittering pink feather boa tucked away in an alley, draped on a rack of clothes ready to be claimed! What a glorious stroke of fate, wouldn’t you agree?! (Clearly, my magical tutu had a lot to do with that!).

I am not someone to ever turn down a good theatre show, especially not when a friend recommends a particular, dazzling and glamorous drag show. I made my way down to the infamous Cafe de Paris - which at the time, was one of London's hottest spots for entertainment. I had heard whispers of the incredible shows held here! I mean, the history is legendary, isn’t it, darling?

So many of the drag stars were doing their thing! (That was an experience!) The whole night felt like an ode to glamorous extravagance and a celebration of being oneself. I just felt like everything was a little more exciting at that moment - all my senses felt magnified! It’s like all the drama, laughter, and passion filled my every pore!

I watched with rapt attention as these magnificent artists danced, sang, and brought stories to life. Every moment felt charged with pure magic and undeniable joy. What a gift! I knew then and there that every day needs a touch of magic - even if it is a trip back to August 2010!

Well, my darling, as my time in 2010 slipped through the glittering seams of my pink tutu, I left with a heart brimming with inspiration and joy. It’s quite simple: the magic of drag transcends time, my loves! It's a constant force, forever pushing boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and reminding us that we should never be afraid to shine our unique light! Let us never forget to be kind to ourselves and to embrace our own fabulousness, darling, just like the magnificent queens of 2010.

And remember, there is a special place for every queen, from the bold and audacious to the soft and subtle, so always be yourself, shine brightly, and spread some fabulousness, my loves! Keep twirling and be brave, and may your world be full of glitter!

Until next month, my darlings!

Much love,

Emma x