As Ireland’s drag superstar and winner of 1999 Alternative Miss Ireland, Veda has become an absolute cult hit. This “self-made, man-made woman” has been the reigning queen of Dublin’s gay scene for almost a decade. Veda first showcased her unique style of drag performance and unprecedented brand of electro-pop music at the The George—where she continues to performs her now cult hit, Space’N’Veda, every Wednesday. Her recently released debut album Stars Edge is racing up the Irish charts, but she took some time out to talk all things sartorial with HelpMyStyle.ie
What five words best describe your style?
I can do it in four! Jem And The Holograms.
Best style tip?
Try it on back to front. Some wigs and frocks really come alive that way. The low back of a dress, can make a daring front, some chunky zips look better on the front too and a mullet backwards is an asymmetric bob.
Favourite item in your wardrobe right now?
Fur jacket. Why? Because it’s fucking freezing! I DJ at Craic Out the Back, in The George car park so I invested in a Marianne Faithful style, faux fur jacket in Top Shop to get me through the winter nights, which I’m loving today.
What’s in your handbag right now?
A Claire Garvey collar which I borrowed for a shoot. Safety pins, Lemsip, Visa bill, earrings, eye lashes, some copies of my album and three bags of make up. My handbag is from American Apparel, it’s about half the size of a bin liner and I run a one woman show out of it.
Worst and/or best shopping experience?
Men’s wear shopping in Rome. Italian men are fearless about fashion which is really inspiring to see. I especially love to shop for knit wear, shoes or belts. They have the best in the world available. That said I’m always very careful and considered with my purchases when traveling and try to stay within my budget. I’m a frugalista. They call me LIDL Kim, I haunt the place. I bought some indestructible socks there once that I definitely should throw out.
Best high street store?
I would say Top Shop but I do wish they gave better value for money. For glamour on a shoe string you can’t beat Pennys.
Favourite place to shop?
All The Best in The Georges Street Arcade. It’s a small unisex boutique run by my friend Jenvi. I love Jenvi’s eye and trust his advice. Lots of my stage gear comes from there.
Fashion on the web?
www.bananashoes.com – I have big feet for a lady. Banana Shoes have some cute styles and do two day delivery.
What more could a tranny want?
www.anatomicbomb.com – I have two dresses, some gloves, nipple tassels and a hat from this site. Their work is flawless. Rubber is always sexy and fun in a club environment, and these designs are flattering and colourful with it.
Worst fashion moment?
I did a crop top once at the Alternative Miss Ireland, didn’t realise I was carrying so much belly jelly till I saw the video. I was mortified.
Who epitomises great style?
Daphne Guinness, she has this rock star style meets gallery owner meets Russian princess. Perfection!
What era of style would you most like see return to fashion?
Baroque, so that men could be a lot more playful for a change. Forget guy liner, lets have some heart shaped beauty spots?! Give me some Adam Ant flavour.
For more on all things VEDA, visit her site here.
