Miss Drag SA reveals what it'll take to snatch her crown in the 2019 pageant

Would your fierce drag transformation get you on to RuPaul’s Drag Race? Well then be sure to get your Miss Drag SA entry in before Friday, March 15.

Miss Drag SA pageant director Enigma von Hamburg wants the 2019 edition to be bigger and better that ever before and even has ambitions to grow the pageant into one of the best in the country.

"I definitely have a dream to bring this contest to the level of Miss SA," she says.

However, Von Hamburg emphasises that the contest is about more than just glitz and glam; it's about celebrating diversity, the advancement of LGBTQA+ rights and bringing visibility to drag culture in SA.

The pageant’s aim of "Drag for a Purpose" is seen through the contestants who serve as agents for change in their communities through uplifting projects and by being positive role models.

This is certainly true of last year’s winner, Miss Vicky from the Eastern Cape.

"Many people think that drag is just a man in a gown with all the sequins and big wigs,  but I do feel it's much more than that," she says. "There is so much more you can do as a drag artist. Miss Drag SA gives you an opportunity to start your own brand and grow from there."

WANT TO BE MISS DRAG SA 2019? FOLLOW MISS VICKY’S TIPS

Miss Vicky stresses that would-be Miss Drag SA winners must remain true to who they are.

"It's important to actually not be over the top and just try and be yourself so the judges can see who you really are as a drag artist and as an everyday person."

That said, she adds "make-up tips! These are important!"

Here are her tips on how contestants can present their best selves at the pageant: 

MAKE-UP

Miss Vicky advises that you use a thick foundation as it is best for good coverage and that you contour your facial features. False lashes are an absolute must, she adds. 

"You can go without eye shadow and many others things but the lashes actually make you look more like a woman."

HAIR 

"The sky is the limit," says Miss Vicky, who is a hairstylist.

Choose colours that suit your skin tone. If you are fair skinned, select warmer tones. Those with darker or olive skins should go for cooler tones, like blondes and ash blondes.

OUTFIT

You will need three outfits: swimwear, theme wear and evening wear. You will also need outfits for the photo shoots before the gala event, which will take place in Pretoria in October.

Miss Vicky says although designers dress contestants, it's best to  self-style at least one of your outfits so the judges can see your personal style.

"Be honest, stay true to who you are and keep it simple," is her final advice to aspiring beauty queens.

• To enter Miss Drag SA, visit evhempire.co.za/pageantry