Sequins & Suits: A Beginner's Guide To Bedazzling Your Drag King Look

Ever imagined walking into a room, all eyes on you, captivated by your presence? Walking onto stage takes more than just showing up. As a Drag King, it’s your look that can make you shine.

Learning to bedazzle your Drag King attire is like crafting your own magic—patience, the right tools, and a dash of sparkle. By the end of this, you'll be ready to create a look that just might catch the eye of that cute human in the crowd ;)

Star Power: Unleashing the Magic of Sequins

Ever notice how a moth is drawn to a flame, irresistibly captivated by the light? That’s the kind of magnetism you want when you step on stage. Sequins have been adding shine to costumes for centuries, turning even the simplest looks into something extraordinary.

There’s something about that shimmer that catches the eye and holds it. Science even backs it—our brains are wired to be attracted to shiny things. So, roll yourself in sequins and let the spotlight catch you just right.

Start with something simple. Pick one feature to highlight—maybe it’s the lapel of your suit or the stripes down your trousers. Less is more when you’re starting, and you can always build from there.

Treasure Hunt: Finding Your Sequins

Creating a killer Drag King look doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Op shops, charity stores or thrift stores are filled with pre-loved clothes that can be repurposed. Think creatively about the fabric in sequined dresses or scarves that you come across.

Check out recycling places that reverse garbage. Be resourceful—you’ll be amazed at what you can find and how you can reinvent it.

Creating Depth: Mastering the Illusion of Sequins

Sequins aren’t just about sparkle—they’re about dimension. By playing with different sizes and layering, you can create looks that pop in more ways than one. Your Drag King persona is larger than life, and your outfit should be a match for that.

Mix it up! Try layering different sizes and colours of sequins to create something unique to you. The bolder, the better.

Stick with It: Attaching Your Sequins

How you attach those sequins is just as important as where you put them. Sewing them on is the most secure method, but it takes time. If you’re short on time, fabric glue can be a lifesaver. Just make sure it’s secure, so you don’t have sequins flying everywhere during your performance.

Test your adhesive on a small area first to make sure it doesn’t mess with your fabric or the sequins. Sequin colour can run if you add too much glue. Durability is important to ensure your costume stands strong through every performance.

Keeping the Sparkle: Caring for Your Sequined Look

Once your Drag King look is complete, it’s important to keep those sequins looking their best. With a little care, your outfit will stay fresh for performance after performance.

When washing sequined clothes, turn them inside out and use a gentle cycle. Avoid ironing them directly; use a pressing cloth or flip the garment inside out to avoid melting or dulling the sequins.

In the end, bedazzling your Drag King look is about more than just adding shine. It’s about creating a bold statement, owning your space on stage, and ensuring all eyes are on you. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned performer looking to up your game, remember this: Drag Kings don’t just wear sequins to shine. We shine because it's who we are—bold, creative, and unapologetic. So claim the stage, take up space and express yourself.

Xx Danica

The King Coach

About Danica Lani, The King Coach

Hey you 👋 I’m Danica Lani—also known as The King Coach. I’ve mentored 112 first-time Drag Kings since 2020, and I’m here to say: if you’re feeling the pull to explore gender through performance, you’re not alone—and you’re not too late.

Whether you’re new to this world or quietly dreaming of stepping into your masculine side on stage, there’s space for you here.

✨ Ready to name your King? Download Claim Your Drag King Name in 4 Simple Steps—a free guide to choosing your Drag King name.

💫 Want to see what’s possible? Explore Kings of Joy and discover the queer community bringing masculine expression to life with joy, power, and heart.

📸 Sarah Malone.