Artists Opera Tang, Ken Hermanns, and Lady Gagita discuss the influence of fashion on their performance style within the drag art genre.
Revamped Article:
Fashion and Drag: United by Rebellion
The link between drag culture and fashion is a historic one. Both are pillars in similar territories: platforms for individual self-expression, each exhibiting a rebellious streak, and a means of fostering belonging. The drag ball has always been a stage for defiance, giving each drag artist a chance to flaunt their distinct stylistic individuality when constructing their LGBTQ+ personas. Renowned designers like John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier have been known to lift references straight from drag culture; Galliano with the campy grandeur of his designs at Dior in the '90s, while Gaultier famously collaborated with drag queens to test the boundaries of gendered and politically charged clothing.
On the flip side, drag is deeply intertwined with fashion. The world of drag, as colorful as its queens, requires each artist to bring their personal flair to the table, especially when it comes to costuming or enhancing their bodies. Today's drag performers of the modern era each sport different approaches to dressing up for the art form.
Take for example, Lady Gagita, the Filipino drag performer who masterfully impersonates Lady Gaga herself, from recreating Gaga's iconic dance performances to copying her exact outfits. Then there's Ken Hermanns, whose claim to fame might be her experimental makeup looks, but she learned the art of creating traditional Malay garments from her grandmother during her teenage years, making her entry into the scene. Lastly, there's Opera Tang, who consistently incorporates heritage and tradition into her drag, from donning costumes inspired by local landmarks or motifs like the Toa Payoh dragon playground costume or our national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim.
Without hesitation, these drag artists earn the title of royalty in their own right. This Pride Month, Vogue Singapore sits down for a chat with Opera Tang, Ken Hermanns, and Lady Gagita to discuss how fashion shapes their drag identities, their style icons, and the thought process behind the outfits for their performances.
Ken Hermanns
Describe your personal style: My drag isn't as loud or ostentatious as people might expect from a drag queen, and I prefer it that way. My personal style leans towards a more relaxed vibe, especially off-stage. A sleek, long, straight Naomi Campbell wig, and I'm right at home; it's become almost a signature. Even out in the local scene, my style is easily recognizable from a mile away. It's understated, but still striking. However, I do enjoy experimenting creatively, often elevating my drag with one-of-a-kind pieces I create myself. There's a certain calmness to my aesthetic, yet there's always an intent behind it.
When did you begin viewing fashion as a tool for expression? Fashion has always been my language. I never attended fashion school or earned a formal degree, but everything I know stems from my grandmother and the internet. I learned to sew at 14 when my grandma showed me how to hand-make traditional Malay garments and create pattern pieces from scratch. That was the moment I realized clothing could hold sentiment and emotion.
Share more on how drag has impacted your relationship with style today? Without fashion, I wouldn't have discovered my confidence in drag. It's the foundation of how I present myself to the world. Drag afforded me the opportunity to communicate statements on my behalf and for others, allowing me to see how powerful style could be. Even without formal training, I leaned on what I learned from my grandmother and the online community. Fashion provides me control over my image, and more importantly, how I feel. It's the reason I can stride into a space with a sense of calm, power, and true self.
Who are your style icons? Lady Gaga will always be my inspiration. I'm deeply influenced by Mugler as well; the shapes, the drama, the precision. I appreciate fashion that makes an impression, that speaks before I even say a word. Not everyone can pull off those silhouettes, but I know how to make them work for me. I believe in understanding your body, your strengths, and styling accordingly with confidence. Whether you learned it in a classroom or in your grandma's sewing room, it doesn't matter. Drag is about expressing your authenticity.
How do you create a look for your performances? I draw inspiration from icons like Lady Gaga, Nicole Scherzinger, Beyoncé, and even Kim Kardashian. They all possess strong visual identities, and I'm drawn to their variety and adaptability. Each performance feels like a new runway; I construct the look based on a mood or message, and this determines the tone, the structure, and the movement. I approach it as a story being told through style.
Any advice for someone who wants to develop their drag identity? Explore. Experiment. Express. Don't worry about following someone else's blueprint. I may not have attended fashion school, but I forged my own path, with guidance from my grandmother and late-night surfing on the internet. You don't need a formal education. Drag is about celebrating your truth. Be bold in your choices, even if they're simple. Let your identity guide your art, and shut out the noise. If it feels genuine to you, that's all that matters.
Opera Tang
Describe your personal style: My personal style can be described as confidently and powerfully feminine, with a queer twist. But naturally, my drag is more extravagant than my everyday fashion when not in drag.
When did you see fashion as a tool for expression? It was when I started playing dressup with Barbies as a kid—secretly, in hiding. I loved how Barbie's clothes accentuated the beauty of the feminine figure, used pretty fabrics, and when my mum didn't buy new clothes for Barbie, my grandma could whip up a gorgeous outfit from the scraps she had. That moment revealed to me that clothing could hold meaning and emotion. Fast-forward to today, I still enjoy dressing up—not with plastic dolls anymore, but on myself. That childhood fascination with Barbie's clothes has never waned, and now I celebrate it on stage.
How has drag impacted your relationship with style today? Drag allowed me to embrace my inherent femininity. It showed me that my differences should be celebrated and I can wear them proudly. Before entering drag, I tried to blend in with what other cis-men wore, assuming I was comfortable doing so. But now, drag has liberated me from those restrictive, binary, and oppressive notions of men's and women's wear. Instead, I dress how I want because it brings joy to me.
Are you experimental with your drag style? Yes and no. I started with a clear idea of the type of aesthetic my drag would embody (even if the execution was questionable). But I've since pivoted to something more relatable. The core theme of my drag remains the same though—a proud celebration of queer culture, tradition, and heritage.
How do you create a look for your performances? I draw inspiration from everyday objects, symbols, and motifs. This leads to a clear vision of how a drag look can be crafted for the stage. I also listen to my favorite songs, delve deep into why they move me so much, and create the look based on the emotions they evoke.
Advice for someone developing their drag identity? Take a leap. You may not have a clear vision of who or what you'll be as a drag queen yet, and your drag style may evolve over time. That's fine. Drag is a journey. Embrace it. It's your journey, so don't be too hard on yourself about developing an identity. The fun in drag lies in discovering yourself and your authenticity. Be bold in your choices, even if they're simple. Let your identity guide your art, and forget the noise.
Lady Gagita
Describe your personal style: My drag style is heavily influenced by Lady Gaga—bold, unconventional, and unapologetically edgy. However, my everyday fashion is quite the opposite—clean, minimalist, and monochromatic, akin to classic boy-next-door attire.
When did you see fashion as a tool for expression? I discovered fashion as a means of self-expression when I began impersonating Lady Gaga. I was inspired by the way she utilized fashion to make bold statements. As I continued my journey in drag, I came to realize that fashion can also hold political significance—serving as a powerful platform for expressing activism and stirring conversation.
How has drag influenced your relationship with style today? I believe drag has significantly impacted my personal style today. Through drag, I've learned how to mix and match pieces effectively, understand which colors suit me, and figure out what flatters my body and what doesn't. It's been an ongoing learning experience for me, drawing inspiration from other drag queens and trendsetters within the pop culture sphere.
Who are your style icons? Lady Gaga is undoubtedly my top inspiration. I'm also inspired by Katy Perry's playful, campy style and Beyoncé's sultry, regal approach to fashion.
How do you create a look for your performances? I strive to replicate the exact outfits of the icons I impersonate, taking meticulous attention to detail—from the smallest accents to the most recognizable elements. The goal for me is authenticity. More than that, I aspire to provide the audience a sense of illusion—making them believe they're witnessing the real thing on stage.
Advice for someone developing their drag identity? For those just starting out in drag with limited resources, learn to make the most of what you have. Innovation, creativity, and resourcefulness are your greatest tools. Aspiring drag artists should not chase perfection; instead, they should focus on creating a polished, high-impact look without breaking the bank. Once you've found your voice and made your mark, success will follow. Stay true to yourself, and your unique drag identity will naturally emerge.
- The historical link between fashion and drag culture showcases their shared platforms for individual self-expression, each embracing a rebellious spirit and promoting a sense of belonging.
- Fashion is a tool for self-expression for drag artists like Ken Hermanns, whose personal style offers a relaxed yet striking aesthetic, easily recognizable in the local scene.
- Opera Tang's drag performances embrace a confidently feminine style, combining a queer twist with extravagant costumes, embodying her unique vision and appreciation for tradition.
- Lady Gagita's drag style is inspired by Lady Gaga's bold, unconventional, and edgy approach to fashion, shaping her impersonations and creating a captivating illusion on the stage.
- In the realm of entertainment and lifestyle, creativity, innovation, and resourcefulness in fashion and drag will continue to runway the boundary-pushing culture and art that captivate audiences worldwide.
