Videos

 ‘Heavenly Bodies’ Abdul’s debut entering Designers Delight category at Benjamin Milan’s fashion ball ‘The Met Ball’ in 2019. The category asked to take inspiration from the 2018 Met Gala theme ‘Heavenly Bodies - Fashion and the Catholic Imagination’ 

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Designers Delight is one of many categories that take place in Ballroom; where craftsmanship and the ability to interpret any given theme effectively is judged by a panel and scored against other exciting and innovative competitors.

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With this exquisite creation Abdul wanted to take the opportunity to showcase his love and respect for a handful of New York Ballroom icons; the pioneering Willi Ninja, the sharp Pepper La Beija, the breath takingly beautiful Octavia St Laurent and the philosophical and glamourous Dorian Corey. 

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Depicting the icons on ‘stain-glass’ like a church would their saints; each window is positioned to carousel around an imposing dome of a skirt made of crisp taffeta. The button up bodice complete with clerical collar is styled like that of a catholic priest’s cassock. The low back frames the elegant neck, shoulder blades and spine belonging to Abdul’s stunning model and muse; Omar Jordan Phillips @discoverbambam - all fastened with brass latches to emphasise the gorgeous architecture and beautiful interiors of a Catholic church.

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QPOC and LGBTQ+ Ballroom culture has evolved through the decades in an effort to build community and highlight the issues QPOC and LGBTQ+ people face day to day. This entry into Designers Delight was an effort to not only recognise the history of Ballroom legends but also express gratitude to contemporary Ballroom participants who have wholeheartedly welcomed Abdul into the scene with open arms.

 

 

Photography: Celine Fortenbacher @celineforten

Model: Omar Jordan Phillips @discoverbambam

Make Up: Christopher Kirubi