Performing: hoe-lene and rode-hoe

Creating a drag costume for performance

For one of my second year UNIVERSITY modules, i was tasked with a COLLABORATIVE project; creating a drag persona for a PERFoRMANCE at the julies 2025. Working alongside Maisie Pepperell, we created two western INSPIRED drag queen personas with glittery costumes to match.

To create my costume for the character of ‘hoe-lene’, i worked with ardmel strech machines to create a gold bodysuit and chaps, adored with over 2000 rhinestones and long fringe. to accentuate my character however, i used a laser cutter to create prop guns, horseshoe earrings & buttons. this was all perfectly drawn together with the worlds smallest hat, bolero tie and rhinestone nails; all customised by me!

Working alongside maisie was an amazing experience. While working with her, i learned ALTERNATIVE processes to making, project planning aswell as PERFORMANCE planning. This module played into my wheelhouse being a drag performer myself and will be a standout moment in my career MOVING forward.

Photos: Rey Illenden-Rough and Kate Viray

Makeup, Editing and Retouching: Ben Sutton