Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! I’m Emma, your ever-so-fabulous guide through the sparkly, feathered history of drag. Today, we’re waltzing back to a date that has everything – glitter, gossip, and, well, just a touch of… drama. Buckle up, pet, it's time to time travel!
It’s October 10th, 1935. The world outside my pink time-travelling tutu feels so different! Think roaring twenties jazz, but a touch more demure. It's a wonderful world of cloche hats and flapper dresses, where everyone wants to dance until they can't dance no more! I'm standing outside a quaint theatre in Chicago, feeling all the feels and the goosebumps!
Now, before we delve into the day's excitement, let’s talk about the journey itself. Honestly, you wouldn't believe how much a little bit of pink tutu magic can transport you. A few twirls, a flash of pink tulle, and poof – you're off! Honestly, dear, it's much more efficient than those complicated time machines I saw in the 50s. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, shall we?
The excitement today, my darlings, centers around a certain "female impersonator," as they used to call us back then. This particular darling is performing under the stage name Marguerite, and boy, was I in for a treat! I’d been following Marguerite's career for months – she's a Chicago legend, known for her flawless looks and high-energy performances.
Marguerite’s performance tonight was legendary! This wasn't your standard lip-syncing, "let's all be friends" show. Oh, no! Marguerite was a siren, a temptress, a force to be reckoned with! The audience ate it up, gasping and clapping between numbers. But you know what? It was more than just the glamorous performance – the genuine camaraderie and admiration she received from the audience was incredible. Even during the days when "female impersonation" was barely accepted, Marguerite shone brightly, inspiring people with her dazzling stage presence.
Speaking of acceptance, this journey back in time has got me thinking.
Drag is a glorious, powerful art form that takes guts, grace, and glitter, darling. But just as importantly, it takes an understanding audience, one that embraces diversity and encourages freedom of expression. Today, I saw how even back then, under less tolerant conditions, a drag performer like Marguerite, through their own brilliance, could spark that understanding and inspire an audience to appreciate art beyond gender norms.
While our lives in modern drag are a far cry from those in 1935, this trip to Chicago showed me that our mission – spreading glitter, embracing uniqueness, and fighting for a world that welcomes all forms of self-expression – has always been our most important mission. That message, that love of our craft, is something that transcends time. It’s why I love doing this blog. And it's why you should always wear your pink tutu with pride.
Now, for all you fashion darlings, imagine the stunning glamour of this era. Think sequins, feathered boas, and flowing gowns! Just seeing the outfits in the crowd transported me back to my old ballet classes, even the hairstyles and makeup seemed reminiscent of classic ballet costumes, just with a little more oomph! It's incredible to see how fashion from the past influences the looks we create today.
Now, for all you shopping queens out there, here’s a tip! Chicago was the hotbed for incredible costume designers in those days, especially when it came to glamorous eveningwear and fabulous theatrical ensembles. And as I danced around, twirling my tutu in delight, I came across this extraordinary boutique called The Pink Pearl. Oh my! If only I had more pockets and more time! The owner was the sweetest lady and I had to refrain from picking out every outfit. You'll have to go yourself to experience the magic of vintage glam, I'm keeping those treasures to myself!
This trip, you see, darling, wasn't just a jaunt through time – it was a reminder that drag has always been about embracing yourself and your fabulousness, no matter the challenges you face. You go girl! Keep twirling your tutus, keep making your voice heard, and keep rocking your pink!
Remember, I'm always looking for your drag stories. Share them with me on social media! Let's get everyone wearing pink tutus, one glittery twirl at a time.
And, as always, stay fabulous, darling!
Love,
Emma.
www.pink-tutu.com
