Sew Fierce: An Interview with Crystal!

In the dazzling realm of drag, where sequins sparkle and feathers flutter, there’s a hidden artistry that often goes unnoticed—the craft of drag costume design. As drag culture continues to captivate audiences worldwide, a new spotlight shines on the creative minds behind the extravagant ensembles that grace the stage. Sew Fierce the groundbreaking show that peeled back the layers of drag last year is back showcasing the brilliant designers who bring these larger-than-life personas to fruition.

After 2 seasons on as a mentor / judge on the OUTtv original series Call Me Mother UK Drag superstar Crystal is back on the small screen, but this time hopping in as a the host. We sat down with her to find out what she’s been up to and to get an exclusive glimpse into the upcoming season! Scroll down for the full interview below.

How are you? What have you been up to?

I’m great! I’m in Nova Scotia right now visiting family, which is always a treat. I’ve had a whirlwind couple of months in court fighting a defamation suit so it’s nice to get away.

Why did you want to join Sew Fierce? What makes the show so unique?

I love attention. But ALSO, I love the craft of design, especially as it relates to drag. I studied costume design at university so it’s an easy fit for me. The design episodes of drag race are always my fave – but on this show, everyone knows how to use a sewing machine! As far as I know, there’s never been a show that focuses on the design of drag before! And we’ve got such a diverse mix of designers and aesthetics – from classic pageant drag to avant garde monster cosplay drag, it makes the final results really exciting and interesting.

How was it coming from a show like Call Me Mother? Was it great to work with Jaime/Lucinda again?

It felt like an easy, natural progression. In many ways, my job on Sew Fierce is a little easier as I’m not acting as mentor/mother to anyone – I just get to be judgy and sassy which is always a strong suit of mine. Jaime is always a treat! We get on so well and I think it shows on camera.

Without giving too much away, what can fans look forward to this season?

Amazing looks, shocking eliminations, tearful goodbyes and me looking very hot!

Do you have a specific designer you usually work with? Most memorable wardrobe malfunction?

I love working with Amy Statik who does all of my latex looks. She made my memorable Queen Elizabeth II military jacket from Drag Race UK. Latex is such a specialist skill and I’m in awe of it!

Speaking of latex, I’ve had my dress split up the back multiple times – it’s a hazard of the material! Most memorably, it happened as I walked on to set of the TV show Drag Karaoke Club – literally as I filmed my entrance. Ooops.

Biggest difference between season 1 and season 2?

ME! No but I think the format has evolved, the designers are even more talented and the entire production has been levelled up.

Anything else you’d like to promote?

Free Palestine!

In Sew Fierce Season 2, eight of the worlds top drag designers compete to be this years champion. The first episode is streaming now on OUTtv with new episodes available every Tuesday.