Rockabilly – The Ballarat Beat

I can’t tell you how excited I have been gearing up for the Ballarat Beat – Rockabilly Festival.

Although I have never done the full Rockabilly look before, I have long been an admirer and jumped at the chance to collaborate with vintage inspired designer Maria Murphy of Sarsparilly.

Maria’s Rockabilly flair designs are inspired with references to ‘pop culture, kitsch, and colour’. “Clothing for women who want to wear something that makes them smile” she says.

A twirling full skirt always makes me smile!

Sarsparilly garments are handmade ensuring quality craftsmanship and uniqueness. Supporting up and coming designers so many of Maria’s prints are by independent artists from all over the world, with eclectic references to Harry Potter, Dr Who, Alice in Wonderland and many more.

Now living in Newcastle, Maria herself grew up here in Ballarat, her family very much a part of the community owning The Welcome Nugget Hotel (now known as Table 48). Although she isn’t here at this years Ballarat Beat her designs will be seen not only on myself but last years Miss Ballarat Beat winner and a pinup judge for this years competition Miss Von Ruby.

Most of all, Maria’s dream for Sarsparilly is about joy, and wearing your true colours!

The Ballarat Beat is an annual 4 day event celebrating all things Rockabilly, Music, Cars, Fashion and Fun.

Showcasing battle of the bands, dance lessons, burlesque, market stalls and pinup competitions, its an action packed festival that see’s one of Ballarat’s historic streets closed off for the duration.

With Ballarat Beat Pinup competition covering categories such as Miss Modern, Miss Ink-spired, there was plenty of entertainment to be seen. The Miss Classique, Miss Modern Pinup, Miss Ink-spired, Miss Psychobilly, Miss Geekabilly, Mr Ballarat Beat, Kustom Kulture Couple was an eye opener. Having not seen this event before I wasn’t sure what to expect, thinking a simple walk down the catwalk to be judged was what was expected, But No…there is so much more involved! Each entrant must put on a ‘show’ ensuring they meet several criteria for the judges; soft hand, floor work and holding a pose for 5 seconds are just a few.

As one of many sponsors of this event, Sarsparilly donated a $300 dress to the years Miss Ballarat Beat,  Miss Jessie Leigh who’s performance of Rainbow Bright was a stand out!

Photo curtesy Finding Femme

Many thanks to all those who made my first Rockabilly experience one to remember xx

Stephanie xx

 

Sarsparilly Look at the Stars Dress (gifted) * Accessories Barbarona Vintage Boutique * Hair accessories Barbarona Vintage Boutique (gifted) * Hair and Makeup by  Buff Makeup