Drag Show Outfits & Etiquette: What To Wear & How To Act

Hey guys! So, you're heading to a drag show? Awesome! Get ready for a night of glamour, glitter, and unforgettable performances. But maybe you're also wondering, "What do I even wear?" and "How should I act?" Don't sweat it! This guide is your easy primer to being a stylish and courteous drag audience member. Let's dive in and make sure you're not just in the audience, but part of the fabulousness!

Dressing the Part: Your Drag Show Wardrobe

When it comes to drag show fashion, almost anything goes! This freedom is fantastic, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. You know the drag queens and kings will be serving fierce looks, but how do you match that energy without feeling like you're trying to outshine the stars of the show? The key is to express yourself, have fun, and be respectful.

Embrace the Freedom of Expression

The beauty of a drag show is its celebration of individuality and creativity. Think of your outfit as a chance to showcase your personality. Are you feeling bold and dramatic? Go for it! Prefer something more understated and chic? That works too! There are really no strict rules, which is part of the fun. This is your chance to experiment with styles you might not normally try. Maybe you've always wanted to rock a sparkly top or a brightly colored suit. A drag show is the perfect place to do it!

Consider your personal style and how you can amplify it. If you love vintage, maybe a retro-inspired dress or a sharply tailored suit with a vintage tie. If you're more into contemporary fashion, think about incorporating current trends with a bit of an extra edge. This could mean pairing a sleek jumpsuit with bold accessories or rocking a killer pair of heels. And don't be afraid to play with textures and patterns. Sequins, feathers, velvet, and animal prints are all fantastic choices that will help you stand out in the crowd.

Finding the Balance: Respectful and Fabulous

While it's all about expressing yourself, it's also important to be mindful of the performers. You want to complement the energy of the show, not compete with it. Think of it like going to a concert – you want to look great, but you don't want to distract from the main act. Avoid wearing anything that could be perceived as disrespectful or that might overshadow the queens. For example, showing up in a full drag costume might be seen as trying to steal the spotlight. Instead, aim for a look that’s celebratory and stylish, but still allows the performers to shine.

A good rule of thumb is to consider the venue and the type of show you're attending. A smaller, more intimate venue might call for a slightly more casual outfit, while a larger, more elaborate production could be the perfect opportunity to go all out. When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of fabulous. Think about the overall vibe you want to convey – are you going for glamorous, edgy, playful, or something else entirely? Let your personality shine through, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect balance.

Outfit Ideas to Get You Inspired

Okay, so you're feeling inspired, but maybe you're still staring into your closet wondering where to start. Let's break down some outfit ideas to get those creative juices flowing:

• Glamorous & Glittery: Think sequins, metallics, and anything that sparkles! A sequined top paired with tailored pants or a skirt is always a hit. Or, go for a full-on glittery dress. Don't forget the accessories – statement jewelry and a killer clutch can complete the look.
• Edgy & Chic: For a more alternative vibe, consider leather or pleather pants, a bold graphic tee, and a blazer or jacket. Accessorize with chunky jewelry, combat boots, or a pair of stylish heels.
• Bold & Colorful: Embrace vibrant colors and playful patterns! A brightly colored dress, a patterned suit, or even just a pop of color with your accessories can make a statement. Don't be afraid to mix and match colors and patterns for a unique and eye-catching look.
• Themed Outfits: Some drag shows have themes, so check in advance! If there's a theme, embrace it! This is a fantastic opportunity to get creative and have fun with your outfit. Whether it's a specific era, a movie, or a genre, a themed outfit shows that you're engaged and excited about the show.

The Finishing Touches: Hair, Makeup, and Accessories

Your outfit is the foundation, but the details are what truly bring it to life. Don't forget about your hair, makeup, and accessories! These are the elements that can take your look from great to absolutely show-stopping.

• Hair: Whether you're rocking a sleek and sophisticated style, big and voluminous curls, or a playful updo, make sure your hair complements your outfit. Consider adding some extra flair with glitter, colorful extensions, or a fabulous hairpiece.
• Makeup: A drag show is the perfect occasion to experiment with bold makeup looks. Think bright colors, dramatic eyeliner, and plenty of shimmer. If you're not a makeup pro, don't worry! There are tons of tutorials online to help you create a stunning look. And remember, it's all about having fun and expressing yourself.
• Accessories: Accessories are the icing on the cake! Statement jewelry, a chic clutch, a bold belt, or a killer pair of shoes can elevate your outfit to the next level. Don't be afraid to go big and bold with your accessories – this is the time to shine!

Drag Show Etiquette: How to Act Like a Star Audience Member

Okay, so you've nailed the wardrobe. You're looking fabulous, and you're ready to hit the show. But being a great drag show attendee is about more than just what you wear. It's also about how you act. Drag shows are all about creating a fun, supportive, and respectful environment. So, let's talk about drag show etiquette – the unwritten rules of being an amazing audience member.

The Golden Rule: Respect the Performers

At the heart of drag show etiquette is respect for the performers. These queens (and kings) are putting their hearts, souls, and a whole lot of effort into their performances. They're sharing their art, their stories, and their vulnerabilities with you. The most important thing you can do is show them your appreciation and respect.

This means actively engaging with the show. Cheer, clap, and make noise! Let the performers know you're enjoying themselves. If a queen tells a joke, laugh! If they slay a dance move, scream! Your energy fuels their performance. Also, be mindful of your interactions with the performers. Always be polite and respectful. If you approach a queen after the show, be sure to ask if they're available for a chat or a photo. And always, always tip.

Tipping: Show Your Love (and Your Dollars!)

Speaking of tipping, let's talk about this essential aspect of drag show etiquette. Tipping is not just a nice gesture; it's a crucial part of how drag performers make their living. These queens invest a lot of time, money, and effort into their looks and their performances. Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for their hard work and to support their art.

So, how much should you tip? There's no hard and fast rule, but a good guideline is to tip at least $1-5 per performer per number. If you're feeling extra generous, or if a queen really blew you away, feel free to tip more! Bring small bills with you so you're ready to tip throughout the night. When a queen comes around to collect tips, make eye contact, smile, and hand them your tip directly. This personal connection is part of the fun! If you're unsure about the tipping etiquette at a particular venue, don't hesitate to ask a staff member or a regular attendee.

Creating a Positive Atmosphere: Be Inclusive and Supportive

Drag shows are all about celebrating diversity and self-expression. It's crucial to create a positive, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere for everyone in the audience. This means being respectful of all attendees, regardless of their background, identity, or how they choose to express themselves. Avoid making assumptions about people's gender, sexuality, or any other personal characteristic. Use inclusive language and be mindful of your words and actions.

Support the performers by cheering them on and showing your enthusiasm. Avoid heckling or making negative comments. If you have a suggestion or a critique, keep it to yourself. The goal is to create a space where everyone feels safe, welcome, and celebrated. Remember, drag shows are a community, and we're all there to have a good time together.

Some Don'ts to Keep in Mind

To round things out, let's quickly go over some common