So this bank holiday weekend I got my gladrags on and went to Swingamajig festival at the Rainbow Venues, Birmingham. There was definitely a lot of stylish guys and gals out for the event. In case you’ve not heard of Swingamajig, here’s a little link to my previous post about this epic vintage party.

The style on display was definitely something to be gawped at; from the Tootsie Rollers and their gingham Collectif ensembles, right through to the imaginative girls that were inspired by Victorian era clowns. Many a lady put a well heeled toe into the 1920s era for inspiration – think ‘flapper’ dresses, art deco detailing and feather laden headbands.

It was hard to choose what to wear for such an occasion. There really wasn’t a defined genre of music on offer and the festival promised cabaret, swing, jazz, burlesque, rockabilly… the list goes on. I knew lots of ladies would work the 1920s angle and as a curvier girl this really isn’t my era of choice. I decided to wear a vintage green gown that I purchased from Blighty Bazaar just before it closed recently (weep) and I felt like a Hollywood starlet.

Thank God my dress gave me freedom to move because we did a Lindy Hop class at the Night Owl and I also busted out a few choice moves to Jack Rabbit Slim and Tankus the Henge.

Life is a Cabaret

The highlight for me was the cabaret stage – as soon as compere, Rubyyy Jones got on stage I knew we were in for a treat. Her sharp wit whilst addressing more serious issues like feminism and masturbation in a hilarious manner kicked ass! This lady has major balls – big shout out to her because she was an amazing host and kept the proceedings going magically.

Spider Salah was crazy – a French B-Boy champion, this guy has some mesmorising moves. Equador the Wizard actually had me in stitches and nearly crying with laughter during his magic act – he even got my friend on stage!

The burlesque shows were obviously a big draw for me – I couldn’t wait to see Kitty Bang Bang and she didn’t disappoint. Her seductive fire eating act had a definite rock star attitude which had me gripped. What a hot chick!
Eliza Delite’s powder puff routine was enchanting and I loved Peggy De Lune’s Air Hostess ditty – it was so funny and entertaining.

All this performance is really inspiring me to get my shimmy on…