From Burlesque shuffler to Lizard Lady, Lolo Brow's on-stage personas help influence her fabulous everyday style. And vice-versa. Jen Barton peeks through latex and lace to uncover Lolo's favourite pieces...
With her trademark green hair, polka-dot studded eye makeup and penchant for figure-hugging retro silhouettes with a dark, Gothic edge, Neo-Burlesque performer Lolo Brow is a real head-turner.
While her brand of burlesque doesn't usually encompass vintage themes on stage (Neo-Burlesque tends towards the more political and satirical), you'll find Lolo's off-stage persona loves vintage of all eras - and inherits most of it! - whether it's a Forties tea dress or va-va-voom Eighties sequin-studded gown. Check out Lolo's amazing loot...
What got you interested in vintage fashion?
It was because of an antiques store in my hometown. The window was always full of stunning items arranged in the most beautiful clutter-mess. There was so much glistening jewellery and I remember there was a Twenties wedding dress that was just so unique and different to everything I had seen. I just fell in love with the past, I guess.
Where are your favourite places to source vintage items?
Antique markets for my jewellery. My mama sometimes still takes me to Hungerford. With clothing, funnily enough, I am lucky that most of my vintage was given to me by loved ones or found. But if I am out looking for something specific, I still head to Camden, although it's quite expensive these days. There are some great charity shops in Swiss Cottage - the All Broad gets most of its things from north London theatres so is absolutely brilliant for bizarre one-offs and big, sparkly ballgowns!
What are some of your tips for styling vintage outfits?
1. Be fearless.
2. Be respectful.
3. Remember your waist.
What are your favourite vintage eras? Style icons past and present?
Well, I love the Thirties for the cocktail dresses - how divine! I love the late Fifties for their fabulous pointy boobs and waistlines, I love the Seventies for the shirts and I love the Eighties for making all the beautiful fashion mistakes so we never have to again. My style icons vary and contrast as I love Jayne Mansfield in oh-so-much leopard print and adore Edith Piaf for her simple black dresses.
What are some of your top tips for scouring the best vintage pieces?
Have a big breakfast and a large coffee and be prepared to to dig through boxes and cramped racks, because there is always a hidden gem and they are always worth it when you find them.
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MORE! See inside the best vintage wardrobes here.