Dita Von Teese Has Some Refreshing Views on Beauty

Marianna Jaross

I like to read and draw inspiration from a variety of sources, and it is hard not to be slightly dazzled by Dita Von Teese; an icon of burlesque, beauty, and entertainment.

She makes no secret of her love of all things beauty, and I find her attitude refreshing.

1.) It’s not about your bank account, or how you much spend.

In the introduction of her book, Dita states:

“Beauty, glamour and even luxury need not be determined by one’s bank account. True luxury is using the silk robe and the teacups every single day… A beautiful thing doesn't have to be new or even particularly valuable or precious, as long as it is a thing to behold."

There is a mindfulness and intentionality about her approach here: We can live — or try to live — beautifully now. Not just when the guests come over. Not when we achieve a certain goal.

Being intentional about how we live our lives and the items we surround ourselves with in the present moment can be a gateway to feeling good.

2.) Glamour is not about being born beautiful, or about looks alone.

Most of us have encountered people who are charming or interesting across their lifespan; and this is magnetic.

Dita states: “Glamour is enchantment, wonder. It is standing out from the crowd, by way of flourish, manners, charm. Glamour is a thing of beauty — but it’s not about being born beautiful. Glamour doesn’t belong to the naturally stunning, or to the rich or the young.”

From my perspective, someone is glamorous when they are interesting, care about engaging with others, and unafraid to be themselves. People can tell whether you like yourself, treat yourself well, or are proud of the life you are living in the energy that

emanates of you; and this is a part of glamour.

3.) Making an effort to look good can change your energy, and keep the energy moving.

Have you ever noticed that people treat you differently when you are in an outfit or an arena that you love, and feel fabulous in? Usually we reserve this for when there is an ‘occasion’ or event: But being alive can be the occasion!

I think that when we are wearing what makes us feel fabulous, intentional, and curious about the world, people can pick up this energy. More importantly, it makes us feel good about how we show up.

Dita reminds us of what Elizabeth Taylor has said: “My personal philosophy of beauty is to always believe that something wonderful is about to happen.”

If we look and feel good, we can carry this energy with us throughout the day.

4.) Engaging the senses can be helpful.

Dita states: “Consider how you feel when you do something, anything — swipe on lipstick, set your hair, spritz on a sensuous scent. You can feel the difference between doing something and doing nothing, right? Feel beautiful and you’ll look it, too.”

I have noticed this: The way we feel after we make an effort into our appearance can lift our mood. This is not about the most expensive routine; it is about the intentionality of caring for ourselves, engaging in our senses, and making ourselves feel good and ready for the world, irrespective of the occasion.

5.) Your self-expression can also be a means to self-discovery, and you can make it fun.

Beauty doesn’t come from copying or trying to be like anyone else: Rather, it is about drawing inspiration from people who own their energy, are playful about their rituals, and authentic in how they live their lives.

Dita states: “The best thing, the most important thing is to be true to your self. I encourage you to experiment. Only through trial and error can you truly find out what it means for you. It is also a heck of a lot more fun.”

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Overall, we don’t have to become Dita Von Teese in order to make our lives feel a bit more fabulous. Here are some steps we might be able to implement:

· Create rituals in our lives that make us feel good, present, and intentional

· Improve the aesthetics of our environment to what makes us feel good

· Engage in the senses: Nice fabrics, good smells, and items that spark joy within us can elevate our mood

· Remember that beauty can be about presence, intention, and being the truest version of ourselves.

© Marianna Jaross 2025

Please note: This article is independent of my professional associations and workplace(s).

References

Dita Von Teese. (2015). Your Beauty Mark: The Ultimate Guide to Eccentric Glamour. Harper Collins.