Body Confidence: How to Masc Up your Curves

Humans have curves. I’ve never met anyone who is completely angular or straight up and down. Bodies have curves. 

Having coached 89 and currently on our way to 100 first-time Drag Kings, I’ve seen all kinds of body shapes - each one powerfully unique and beautiful. It is true that some of us are gifted with more curves than others. So when you are stepping into your new masc skin as a Drag King, how do you deal with curves? 

Luckily there are not many rules in the Drag King world. The main two are don’t do anything racially problematic and you can have a dick, just don’t be a dick.

This means that if you’re happy to embrace your curves on stage, then you do you babes. Everyone will love it, and those that judge, well that says more about them than it does about you. As Ted Lasso says, be a goldfish and forget about it.

However, if you’d like to craft a more masculine silhouette on stage as a Drag King then here’s your guide. Remember, the path to being 100% at home in our own skin can be challenging, especially when it comes to body image and self-confidence. Many individuals, regardless of their gender identity, face body negativity and self-doubt. It's essential to recognise that these feelings are normal, but they don't define you. So be kind to yourself.

The Drag King community is a safe space where you can explore and express your true self, free from judgment. Hot top: avoid making comments about other Drag King's bodies - we all have our vulnerable spots and you never know what that is for someone else. So it’s best to not pass comment at all.

In this guide, let’s explore how to confidently step into the spotlight, embrace your masculinity, and rock the stage with pride.

1. Dressing for Confidence:

To lean into your masculine identity, first consider clothes that create this illusion.

- Choose Clothing Styles: Opt for clothing styles that emphasize a more masculine silhouette. Straight-cut pants and button-up shirts can be your best friends. Avoid clothing that hugs your curves, like skinny jeans, fitted tops or elasticised waistbands.

- Go for the V shape: Pad out the shoulders and heighten the hair. Using the structure of your clothes, visually draw a V line down to your family jewels. An example of this is wearing a jacket with lapels. It starts wide then buttons in, lower down the body. An exaggerated version of this is the mankini - lol.

2. Binding and Padding:

Binding techniques can help minimize curves, creating a more masculine silhouette. Remember that comfort and safety is key. Seek advice from experienced Drag Kings in your community for tips on binding safely and effectively.

- Chest Flattening: To flatten your chest, invest in a high-quality chest binder. Binders are designed to compress your chest tissue. Make sure to follow safety guidelines when binding, such as not wearing it for extended periods to avoid discomfort and potential health risks. Read this article for how to buy a binder that fits.

- Hip and Butt Padding: Conversely, you can add padding to your hips and butt to create a more masculine shape. Specialized padding garments are available for this purpose. Look for padded underwear or foam inserts that fit discreetly under your clothing. One of our Kings spent some of their formative years in Japan and attended Kimono schooling. Traditional kimono padding is designed to smooth out the female form and create a flat silhouette through padding. This can be highly effective for those with more defined curves.

- Chest Binding: Use tape that is designed to be applied to human skin. Never use duct tape or other tapes. The glue can cause allergic reactions or can pull off the skin when you remove it leaving scars. Never bind the whole way around your torso. This has been known to restrict breathing and even break ribs. Remove binding tape with an oil such as coconut oil. The enzymes in the oil help break down the adhesive glue. Take it slowly. The well-being of your body matters more than achieving a masc-look for a 4-minute song.

3. Confidence on Stage:

Building confidence on stage takes practice, but remember, every Drag King started as a beginner. Rehearse your performances until you feel at ease with your movements. Focus on embodying your masculine persona versus the shape of your body. Remember that energy is the currency of performance.

Becoming a Drag King is a remarkable journey of self-discovery and empowerment. As you embark on this path, remember that celebrating your uniqueness and leaning into your masculine presence are powerful steps toward owning the stage with confidence. Don't be discouraged by challenges; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and self-expression. With the support of your community and the power of body positivity, you'll shine brightly as The King you are meant to be.

Now, go out there, dazzle the world, and let your authentic self shine! You've got this! 🌟

Xx

Danica Lani

The King Coach

P.S. Wanna be a Drag King? Click here to join the waiting list for Kings of Joy

Hello handsome, 🌈 I'm Danica Lani, also known as The King Coach, here to empower you in your exploration of gender, sexuality, and performance. I have proudly mentored, choreographed, and produced 89 first-time Drag Kings since December 2020. Welcome to the joyous community of Kings of Joy, where we uplift and celebrate each other every step of the way! 🎉🤩 Let's embark on this Drag King journey together, embracing our true selves and cheering each other on! 🤗💖 #KingsOfJoy