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Your Beauty Mark: The Ultimate Guide to Eccentric Glamour
Dita Von Teese divulges the beauty secrets that have earned her a frequent spot on international best dressed lists and high-profile fashion show rosters. She takes the reader through every step of her signature looks - from her perfectly coiffed hair to her flawless skin and makeup - and turns to experts and friends for advice.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published December 1, 2015
525 people are currently reading
4,035 people want to read
About the author
Dita Von Teese
17books343followersDita Von Teese (born Heather Renée Sweet) is a popular American burlesque artist, model and actress.
She is one of the instigators of the burlesque revival and has been a considerable factor in bringing burlesque to mainstream attention. Her fame increased during her relationship with Marilyn Manson, to whom she was married from 2005 to 2007.
She is one of the instigators of the burlesque revival and has been a considerable factor in bringing burlesque to mainstream attention. Her fame increased during her relationship with Marilyn Manson, to whom she was married from 2005 to 2007.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
August 4, 2016
Despite being a staunch supporter of Dita Von Teese, I heard about this by chance shortly after its publication. I wasn't sure if the beauty tips of a burlesque dancer would be realistic, but I was curious anyway. Her sheer dedication to glamour never fails to amaze me. She is the very embodiment of the word. Reading this, in a way, was like reading fiction.
The chapters were unique and informative. The chapter on skincare reminded me of some things I'd been meaning to try out, and while it didn't teach me anything I didn't already know, any lecture on sticking to your routine at night or wearing SPF is enough to motivate me further. Von Teese mainly does ballet and Pilates, two types of exercise I'm a huge fan of. She demonstrates many of the moves she does in one chapter. I do most, if not all of them, so it was fun to see something so familiar. The chapter on perfume reminded me to keep searching for my signature scent - an unnecessarily arduous process thanks to my sensitive skin. Her refined approach towards makeup is also something I appreciate. Many may take offence to her stance on things like hair removal, but I don't understand the fuss. Obviously we're not all burlesque dancers. In the end it all boils down to personal preference.
Up until recently, I wouldn't review every book I read for fear of what people would think, but I can't be bothered anymore. While this makes for a beautiful coffee table book, it's also useful. I really enjoyed this and will continue to read more books in this genre. I have some classics to read that can double as doorstops, so balancing things out with something more simple such as this definitely helps.
______________________
I know it's gimmicky of me, but there were a couple of recipes in the book from Von Teese's nutritionist that I ended up saving. I just tried the one below and ended up liking it, which is surprising because it's healthy.
My Sweet Tooth Elixir
Whenever I want to shake up a craving for something sweet, I follow Kimberly [Snyder]'s simple recipe based on Ayurvedic principles for nourishing nerves. I toss the following into a small saucepan, heat under a boil, and drink at once:
The chapters were unique and informative. The chapter on skincare reminded me of some things I'd been meaning to try out, and while it didn't teach me anything I didn't already know, any lecture on sticking to your routine at night or wearing SPF is enough to motivate me further. Von Teese mainly does ballet and Pilates, two types of exercise I'm a huge fan of. She demonstrates many of the moves she does in one chapter. I do most, if not all of them, so it was fun to see something so familiar. The chapter on perfume reminded me to keep searching for my signature scent - an unnecessarily arduous process thanks to my sensitive skin. Her refined approach towards makeup is also something I appreciate. Many may take offence to her stance on things like hair removal, but I don't understand the fuss. Obviously we're not all burlesque dancers. In the end it all boils down to personal preference.
Up until recently, I wouldn't review every book I read for fear of what people would think, but I can't be bothered anymore. While this makes for a beautiful coffee table book, it's also useful. I really enjoyed this and will continue to read more books in this genre. I have some classics to read that can double as doorstops, so balancing things out with something more simple such as this definitely helps.
______________________
I know it's gimmicky of me, but there were a couple of recipes in the book from Von Teese's nutritionist that I ended up saving. I just tried the one below and ended up liking it, which is surprising because it's healthy.
My Sweet Tooth Elixir
Whenever I want to shake up a craving for something sweet, I follow Kimberly [Snyder]'s simple recipe based on Ayurvedic principles for nourishing nerves. I toss the following into a small saucepan, heat under a boil, and drink at once:
½ cup unsweetened almond milk
2 teaspoons of honey (preferably raw) or coconut nectar
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
pinch of saffron or turmeric
October 19, 2018
In life, there are fundamental skills a gal must master: Walk in heels. Poach an egg. Pen a thank you note. And, most absolutely, without a doubt, create a cat eye. pg 172
Your Beauty Mark by Dita Von Teese is the most inclusive guide to beauty I've ever had the chance to peruse. From make-up to perfume to grooming, she leaves no stone unturned in her quest for glamour.
And she's not afraid to share some secrets. If you read this book, you'll have the rare privilege of viewing Ms. Von Teese sans her glamour. (Well, and clothes, as she includes some burlesque photos.) She tells about one Halloween when she dressed up as "the girl next door" and no one recognized her because her appearance has literally become her identity.
She also has separate entries by many of her cutting-edge fashion and beauty friends, sharing their lives, struggles and unique brands of beauty. In a world that sometimes tries to push everyone into cookie cutter molds of both appearance and behavior, it is a breath of fresh air. The history of beauty is sprinkled throughout and we learn about the origins of lipstick, heels and more.
This was a book I had to enjoy slowly, otherwise it had moments where I felt overwhelmed by the level of dedication Ms. Von Teese brings to her art, which is, beauty. She eats a certain way, walks a certain way, arranges her hair just so...
I enjoy dressing up, occasionally, as much as the next person, but I don't think I'll ever give up the level of comfort I've come to enjoy in my footwear. Or dedicate as much time to adorning my body as Ms. Von Teese does. But that being said, it's fun to dream.
Everyone, male and female, will probably find something to enjoy in this book. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder and Ms. Von Teese makes herself so easy to love.
Your Beauty Mark by Dita Von Teese is the most inclusive guide to beauty I've ever had the chance to peruse. From make-up to perfume to grooming, she leaves no stone unturned in her quest for glamour.
And she's not afraid to share some secrets. If you read this book, you'll have the rare privilege of viewing Ms. Von Teese sans her glamour. (Well, and clothes, as she includes some burlesque photos.) She tells about one Halloween when she dressed up as "the girl next door" and no one recognized her because her appearance has literally become her identity.
She also has separate entries by many of her cutting-edge fashion and beauty friends, sharing their lives, struggles and unique brands of beauty. In a world that sometimes tries to push everyone into cookie cutter molds of both appearance and behavior, it is a breath of fresh air. The history of beauty is sprinkled throughout and we learn about the origins of lipstick, heels and more.
This was a book I had to enjoy slowly, otherwise it had moments where I felt overwhelmed by the level of dedication Ms. Von Teese brings to her art, which is, beauty. She eats a certain way, walks a certain way, arranges her hair just so...
I enjoy dressing up, occasionally, as much as the next person, but I don't think I'll ever give up the level of comfort I've come to enjoy in my footwear. Or dedicate as much time to adorning my body as Ms. Von Teese does. But that being said, it's fun to dream.
Everyone, male and female, will probably find something to enjoy in this book. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder and Ms. Von Teese makes herself so easy to love.
December 23, 2023
This weekend, my flu-ridden and feverish husband stays in bed, reading a copy of "Your Beauty Mark" he gave me for Christmas, and trying to comprehend what the hell has happened. This is the second how-to book that really worked for me (and I read relatively many of these), and while he curses the day I picked up , he quite likes my painted nails (I had no idea it's so much easier with darker colours).
Dita's credibility lies in what she looks like without her Dita on. The book contains her high school photo and one of her Halloween pictures (she usually dresses up as a tanned Californian) - and her natural face is, to quote Chandler, “a nice face, a face you get to like. Pretty, but not so pretty that you would have to wear brass knuckles every time you took it out.� Pretty, but non-threatening. So is her body, according to my husband, whose stack of archival Playboys gives him some comparative material.
His impression, he says, is that while the book does give detailed techniques, Dita's "don't overthink it, just do it" attitude, paired with her 'starting point' looks, means anyone can be transformed. Of course, few women have the time (rather than the money) and the perseverance to follow the same, or comparable, beauty routine (although I'm not sure the ubiquitous Kardashian look is lower-maintenance); Dita herself says one of her go-to looks is impeccable lip and large sunglasses to hide the naked eyes. Still, in our days some lipstick, eyeliner and a dress or skirt go a long way, and I think many women who diss Dita for unreasonable complexity of her make-up routine are young, and simply don't need that much colour or definition to look good.
I'm quite puzzled with how much of the criticism of this book seems to stem from readers' impression that the author wants to transform her readers into her mini-mes. Nonsense. She simply shares some of her sound knowledge on the look she finds universally flattering and adaptable; a look you can approach with different cosmetics (she shares some of her favourites, including drugstore finds) and different techniques, and certainly to different effects. My own version of a 'Dita mini-me' look combines Jean Seberg hair, brown eyeliner, and almost no lipstick (I need to maintain eye contact, which is hard when I'm wearing visible lip colour). And I really think that the fashionable "busty long-haired brunette with bee-stung lips and tons of make-up" look is accessible to far fewer women.
Secondly, Dita is very relatable - especially as far as money is concerned. (Or maybe I should write: if you can afford this beautiful book, you can afford the cosmetics). She seems to have gone through all the stages of vintage love, and is clearly an avid Ebay/ flea market hunter, a vintage lipstick boxes refiller and powder compacts mender (the book contains some explanations on how to do the last two, but I'm far more grateful for enlightening me on the subject of Estee Lauder special edition Christmas compacts).
Another of my husband's reflections was that this is, fundamentally, a good self-acceptance book. I understand this might take a moment to process, but think: in our day, self-acceptance may mean slouching, eating ice cream past your bedtime, wearing no make-up or dying your body hair rainbow colours (I'm making myself sound older than I am). But the way he reads Dita's message is: whatever your size, whatever your age, you can look stunning. (She mentions portion control, but I simply started to switch some of my regular meals for ones she mentions in the book, and it feels good). You can do something good for your body and posture without taxing workouts (although I think her pilates class is more advanced than mine). If you choose not to look stunning, you can still look neat and pulled together doing a fraction of what 'stunning' takes - but the choice is yours to make.
Dita's credibility lies in what she looks like without her Dita on. The book contains her high school photo and one of her Halloween pictures (she usually dresses up as a tanned Californian) - and her natural face is, to quote Chandler, “a nice face, a face you get to like. Pretty, but not so pretty that you would have to wear brass knuckles every time you took it out.� Pretty, but non-threatening. So is her body, according to my husband, whose stack of archival Playboys gives him some comparative material.
His impression, he says, is that while the book does give detailed techniques, Dita's "don't overthink it, just do it" attitude, paired with her 'starting point' looks, means anyone can be transformed. Of course, few women have the time (rather than the money) and the perseverance to follow the same, or comparable, beauty routine (although I'm not sure the ubiquitous Kardashian look is lower-maintenance); Dita herself says one of her go-to looks is impeccable lip and large sunglasses to hide the naked eyes. Still, in our days some lipstick, eyeliner and a dress or skirt go a long way, and I think many women who diss Dita for unreasonable complexity of her make-up routine are young, and simply don't need that much colour or definition to look good.
I'm quite puzzled with how much of the criticism of this book seems to stem from readers' impression that the author wants to transform her readers into her mini-mes. Nonsense. She simply shares some of her sound knowledge on the look she finds universally flattering and adaptable; a look you can approach with different cosmetics (she shares some of her favourites, including drugstore finds) and different techniques, and certainly to different effects. My own version of a 'Dita mini-me' look combines Jean Seberg hair, brown eyeliner, and almost no lipstick (I need to maintain eye contact, which is hard when I'm wearing visible lip colour). And I really think that the fashionable "busty long-haired brunette with bee-stung lips and tons of make-up" look is accessible to far fewer women.
Secondly, Dita is very relatable - especially as far as money is concerned. (Or maybe I should write: if you can afford this beautiful book, you can afford the cosmetics). She seems to have gone through all the stages of vintage love, and is clearly an avid Ebay/ flea market hunter, a vintage lipstick boxes refiller and powder compacts mender (the book contains some explanations on how to do the last two, but I'm far more grateful for enlightening me on the subject of Estee Lauder special edition Christmas compacts).
Another of my husband's reflections was that this is, fundamentally, a good self-acceptance book. I understand this might take a moment to process, but think: in our day, self-acceptance may mean slouching, eating ice cream past your bedtime, wearing no make-up or dying your body hair rainbow colours (I'm making myself sound older than I am). But the way he reads Dita's message is: whatever your size, whatever your age, you can look stunning. (She mentions portion control, but I simply started to switch some of my regular meals for ones she mentions in the book, and it feels good). You can do something good for your body and posture without taxing workouts (although I think her pilates class is more advanced than mine). If you choose not to look stunning, you can still look neat and pulled together doing a fraction of what 'stunning' takes - but the choice is yours to make.
November 29, 2015
I was so excited for this only to suddenly become disappointed once we hit the first section on body hair. Let's be clear, this book isn't so much a guide on eccentric glamour as it is on Dita's idea of eccentric glamour i.e; the golden age of Hollywood aesthetic that she prescribes to. And it is, without a doubt, a great guide on that. Overall the book is mostly beautiful with only a few pages in possession of odd layouts that seem rushed which stand out as strange in a book that appears to have had a lot of thought put into it.
The coverage of topics is thorough, with everything from skin care, exercises and how to measure your bra size mentioned as well as the expected grooming and cosmetics. As for the disappointing views on body hair, it's more of the same status quo, equating beauty to lack of body hair etc.
The coverage of topics is thorough, with everything from skin care, exercises and how to measure your bra size mentioned as well as the expected grooming and cosmetics. As for the disappointing views on body hair, it's more of the same status quo, equating beauty to lack of body hair etc.
September 8, 2016
There's a few things tucked into this book that I can and will put to practical use, mainly regarding moisturizing.
But overall, this book was a monument to self-indulgence and self-absorption, and despite her own and her co-author/editor's frequent insistence to the contrary, Dita von Teese is a pretentious bore. And she is the phoniest of phonies. She actually seems to believe that the only alternative to her totally artificial look (dyed hair stiff with spray, bright red lips and nails, tattooed "beauty mark" and heavy makeup) is head to toe beige. She finds the "natural look" boring, but she fails to grasp the very simple and easily discernible fact that you can have a natural look and still dress colorfully and attractively.
Her tone is pompous and fake as well. She frequently addresses her readers as "darlings" which might have worked with the Golden Age stars she obsesses over, but which is irritating coming from somebody who is only slightly older than me and whose main claim to fame is being a high-class stripper who was once married to Marilyn Manson and whose entire life is an imitation.
And she insists time and again that you don't need tons of time or money to achieve her look (that's really the only look she is interested in talking about here, despite the fact that the word "your" is the very first word of the title) but time and again, she contradicts that statement. Her book is full of references to expensive products, references to her nutritionist/dermatologist/personal Pilates instructor, and all those organic fruits and vegetables and vitamins and the supercharged blenders to make them into disgusting-sounding smoothies do not run cheap.
And the crowning insult? She includes interviews with her dermatologist, her Pilates instructor and her favorite photographer, all of whom rave about how wonderful Dita is and what simply mah-velous care she takes of herself, darlings. Spare me the testimonials, Heather; you aren't running for office.
But overall, this book was a monument to self-indulgence and self-absorption, and despite her own and her co-author/editor's frequent insistence to the contrary, Dita von Teese is a pretentious bore. And she is the phoniest of phonies. She actually seems to believe that the only alternative to her totally artificial look (dyed hair stiff with spray, bright red lips and nails, tattooed "beauty mark" and heavy makeup) is head to toe beige. She finds the "natural look" boring, but she fails to grasp the very simple and easily discernible fact that you can have a natural look and still dress colorfully and attractively.
Her tone is pompous and fake as well. She frequently addresses her readers as "darlings" which might have worked with the Golden Age stars she obsesses over, but which is irritating coming from somebody who is only slightly older than me and whose main claim to fame is being a high-class stripper who was once married to Marilyn Manson and whose entire life is an imitation.
And she insists time and again that you don't need tons of time or money to achieve her look (that's really the only look she is interested in talking about here, despite the fact that the word "your" is the very first word of the title) but time and again, she contradicts that statement. Her book is full of references to expensive products, references to her nutritionist/dermatologist/personal Pilates instructor, and all those organic fruits and vegetables and vitamins and the supercharged blenders to make them into disgusting-sounding smoothies do not run cheap.
And the crowning insult? She includes interviews with her dermatologist, her Pilates instructor and her favorite photographer, all of whom rave about how wonderful Dita is and what simply mah-velous care she takes of herself, darlings. Spare me the testimonials, Heather; you aren't running for office.
December 13, 2015
I will read any glamourpuss's how-to book and pick up little tips here and there as I can. But while I respect Dita's effort and discipline, she's also pretty free with her judgments about women who don't do some of the things she does (like I used to be in my 20s. I've mellowed on this in my 40s, quite radically; she has not). So while I did pick up a few things I'm interested in here and there, for vast swathes of the book, my eyes glazed over and I started flipping through quickly. Way too high-maintenance, way too much time spent doing boring things in the name of beauty, way too much gooey makeup and stiff hair. The exact opposite of my philosophy.
May 28, 2020
Typically, I do not enjoy books written in a chatty, familiar tone, and while there is a bit if that tone in this book, it rings true to Dita's voice -- the one I know from watching her interviews. One quickly sees that Dita's love of retro glam runs deep. She includes interesting historical information throughout. In fact, the book is a huge serving of information, insights, and tutorials; a side of self-promotion; and a dash of editing issues.
In chapter 14, the reference to the sidebar content on home manicures refers to page 000. Similarly, under the heading Venus in Furs (chapter 14), the reader is instructed to refer to chapter 6 for ways to edit the bikini line. Alas, chapter 6 is devoted to fragrance, not hair removal --- which is covered in the hotly-debated chapter 5.
Dita launches her anti-fur campaign... body fur, that is, in chapter 5. Feminists are bashing the content and the authors as anti-feminist for being anti-body hair. People, people...Dita is a stripper who is aligned to 1940s Hollywood glamour. It is logical that she would eschew a 1970s porn bush in favor of furless skin! [And screeching that choosing to remove body hair is anti-feminist is akin to screeching that no feminist woman should opt to be a stay-at-home mum. Let's expand our view and stop ripping other women to shreds because their lifestyle choices don't align with our personal definition of feminism! Feminimism has many faces. Whether your face sports a fuzzy 'stache, lipstick, or both -- support your sister!]
The basic premise of Dita's approach to life (and beauty) is no different than the advice given in all of the French Chic books that fly off of the bookstore shelves. Dita's entire tome can be reduced to one simple maxim: Always be presentable and glamourous. For a more modern and attainable version, look to Jennifer L. Scott's blog, videos, and books.
Back to Your Beauty Mark! The book is a gorgeous coffee table book. The size is a bit unwieldy. Unless you bought the ebook, you are not reading this whilst soaking in a bubble bath, lying on the beach, or riding public transportation.
I question the subtitle: "the ultimate guide to eccentric glamour." Simon Doonan wrote the book on eccentric glamour (which included Dita). This is more of a modern guide to old Hollywood glamour, and for those of us with a lust for vintage glamour and sex appeal, Dita and Rose Apodaca have delivered a splendid piece of work.
In chapter 14, the reference to the sidebar content on home manicures refers to page 000. Similarly, under the heading Venus in Furs (chapter 14), the reader is instructed to refer to chapter 6 for ways to edit the bikini line. Alas, chapter 6 is devoted to fragrance, not hair removal --- which is covered in the hotly-debated chapter 5.
Dita launches her anti-fur campaign... body fur, that is, in chapter 5. Feminists are bashing the content and the authors as anti-feminist for being anti-body hair. People, people...Dita is a stripper who is aligned to 1940s Hollywood glamour. It is logical that she would eschew a 1970s porn bush in favor of furless skin! [And screeching that choosing to remove body hair is anti-feminist is akin to screeching that no feminist woman should opt to be a stay-at-home mum. Let's expand our view and stop ripping other women to shreds because their lifestyle choices don't align with our personal definition of feminism! Feminimism has many faces. Whether your face sports a fuzzy 'stache, lipstick, or both -- support your sister!]
The basic premise of Dita's approach to life (and beauty) is no different than the advice given in all of the French Chic books that fly off of the bookstore shelves. Dita's entire tome can be reduced to one simple maxim: Always be presentable and glamourous. For a more modern and attainable version, look to Jennifer L. Scott's blog, videos, and books.
Back to Your Beauty Mark! The book is a gorgeous coffee table book. The size is a bit unwieldy. Unless you bought the ebook, you are not reading this whilst soaking in a bubble bath, lying on the beach, or riding public transportation.
I question the subtitle: "the ultimate guide to eccentric glamour." Simon Doonan wrote the book on eccentric glamour (which included Dita). This is more of a modern guide to old Hollywood glamour, and for those of us with a lust for vintage glamour and sex appeal, Dita and Rose Apodaca have delivered a splendid piece of work.
January 29, 2016
I am going to preface this with saying that I absolutely adore Dita Von Teese and I will likely gladly give my money over to whatever she puts out. She only signs her name to products of amazing quality, so I know I won't be disappointed (and I haven't been thus far!). Also, I first learned of Dita when I was a teenager, grappling with my own identity and the potential of what I could become. I latched onto Dita because she was a self-professed creation of glamour and class, rising from the ashes of her former self--blonde Heather Sweet from rural Michigan. I thought to myself, "If this is what she can do, then why can't I?" It didn't hurt that she personified a modern-day pinup look that I injected into my own life from the time I first laid eyes on a Bettie Page art rendering. Another aspect of Dita that I'm drawn to is her echoes of things my mother has told me about looking your best whenever you leave the house, and taking care of your appearance because it makes you feel better (it's true, by the way...whenever I think I'm looking my best, I have this radiance and boost of confidence that can't be replicated by any other method!).
I have long been fascinated by Dita Von Teese for so many reasons, not the least of which is how she crafts her signature look on a daily basis. As she points out in every interview I've ever read or seen of her, she is almost 100% DIY. She does her own hair and makeup almost all the time (save for the rare instance she gives herself over to the hands of a true artist and professional on a photo shoot), she serves as her own stylist rather than employing someone for the role, and she even dyes her own hair using box color. BOX COLOR, people! Amazing. So when I learned that she was putting out a book where she laid her secrets bare, I preordered that bad boy and waited for true wisdom to appear on my doorstep. I was not disappointed.
This book is part-History book, part-memoir, and part-beauty bible. It covers such a wide range of topics, from hair to makeup to body modifications to diet and exercise. There are some area where I wish she would go into further detail, but honestly it's a matter of laziness because I can easily look up more information elsewhere. I'm just happy to have not a glimpse, but a real look into her world and routines. Not to mention the gorgeous photos scattered throughout!
It took me two weeks to read this book, not because of its heftiness--it measured in at roughly 400 pages!!--but because I wanted to savor the experience. I would draw a bath, pour a glass of wine, light some candles, and read for about 45 minutes. I soaked in the bubble bath AND the knowledge that was pouring out this book ;) Seriously, though, I can't say enough good things about this book. To top it off, it's a BEAUTIFUL book that would look at home on any coffee table or vanity.
I have long been fascinated by Dita Von Teese for so many reasons, not the least of which is how she crafts her signature look on a daily basis. As she points out in every interview I've ever read or seen of her, she is almost 100% DIY. She does her own hair and makeup almost all the time (save for the rare instance she gives herself over to the hands of a true artist and professional on a photo shoot), she serves as her own stylist rather than employing someone for the role, and she even dyes her own hair using box color. BOX COLOR, people! Amazing. So when I learned that she was putting out a book where she laid her secrets bare, I preordered that bad boy and waited for true wisdom to appear on my doorstep. I was not disappointed.
This book is part-History book, part-memoir, and part-beauty bible. It covers such a wide range of topics, from hair to makeup to body modifications to diet and exercise. There are some area where I wish she would go into further detail, but honestly it's a matter of laziness because I can easily look up more information elsewhere. I'm just happy to have not a glimpse, but a real look into her world and routines. Not to mention the gorgeous photos scattered throughout!
It took me two weeks to read this book, not because of its heftiness--it measured in at roughly 400 pages!!--but because I wanted to savor the experience. I would draw a bath, pour a glass of wine, light some candles, and read for about 45 minutes. I soaked in the bubble bath AND the knowledge that was pouring out this book ;) Seriously, though, I can't say enough good things about this book. To top it off, it's a BEAUTIFUL book that would look at home on any coffee table or vanity.
May 31, 2016
Let me preface this review by saying that Dita Von Teese is ridiculously, stupidly attractive and I've always really liked her acts and have found her to be very creative and talented.
I point that out because I would have rated this book way, way lower if it wasn't full of gorgeous photographs of a gorgeous woman. A gorgeous woman who seems incredibly out of touch and is definitely someone I would not get along with in real life.
I admit to being the kind of person who instantly chafes at the idea that there is a right and wrong way to be a woman and let me tell you, Dita definitely believes there is a right way to be a woman. In her opinion, women should not leave the house in anything less than makeup, styled hair and a great dress. Jeans and sweat pants are literal abominations that you shouldn't be caught dead in. Women apparently should have no body hair beyond a well groomed landing strip of pubic hair because you "deserve" better. Women should be unique and special. There's nothing worse than a generic brunette in trendy clothes.
Did someone just take sand paper to my ass? Because I'm definitely raw about this bullshit. It's 2016 and women should not be defined by their appearance. You can be a woman in a dress with makeup on and you can be a woman in dirty sweat pants with wet hair. There's no right way for us to look and it's straight up shitty to continue saying that we have an obligation to always look attractive. Women are not decorations.
Also, do you guys have money? Because while Dita is quick to say that you can be beautiful on any budget, it strikes me that the secret to being attractive is money. Can you afford a dietitian and personal trainer (who would like you to eat organic gluten free expensive ass bread while doing endless pilates), a dermatologist (who would like you to buy all these expensive ass products), a personal waxer (we've covered how body hair is literally the devil), a plastic surgeon, expensive lingerie and perfume (because you're a goddamn lady) and tons of pricey makeup (see previous parentheses)? Because if you can then yeah, you're probably way hotter than I am. Meanwhile, I've deposited pennies into my bank account because I needed them. Haha, poverty!
Finally, do you watch like, any Youtube beauty tutorials? Or browse any makeup related communities? Because if you do, then you know everything in this book. There's nothing new here; it's all stuff you'll have seen a million times before on the internet and will see a million times again. I don't know about y'all, but there's only so many times a girl can watch someone explain what a beauty blender is and why it's awesome to pay 25 dollars for a sponge. (FYI: the Real Techniques sponge is better. And cheaper.)
Would I recommend this book? Yes, if you'd like to oogle pictures of Dita and admire her absolute dedication to never referring to Marilyn Manson by name unless she absolutely has to but then ruins that by giving him a blurb on the back cover. Yes, if you're a total makeup novice whose literally made of money, like a bank in a skin suit (gross). Yes, if you need something really heavy and rectangular.
No, if you're as chafe prone as me. No, if you wanted something well thought out and detailed.
I point that out because I would have rated this book way, way lower if it wasn't full of gorgeous photographs of a gorgeous woman. A gorgeous woman who seems incredibly out of touch and is definitely someone I would not get along with in real life.
I admit to being the kind of person who instantly chafes at the idea that there is a right and wrong way to be a woman and let me tell you, Dita definitely believes there is a right way to be a woman. In her opinion, women should not leave the house in anything less than makeup, styled hair and a great dress. Jeans and sweat pants are literal abominations that you shouldn't be caught dead in. Women apparently should have no body hair beyond a well groomed landing strip of pubic hair because you "deserve" better. Women should be unique and special. There's nothing worse than a generic brunette in trendy clothes.
Did someone just take sand paper to my ass? Because I'm definitely raw about this bullshit. It's 2016 and women should not be defined by their appearance. You can be a woman in a dress with makeup on and you can be a woman in dirty sweat pants with wet hair. There's no right way for us to look and it's straight up shitty to continue saying that we have an obligation to always look attractive. Women are not decorations.
Also, do you guys have money? Because while Dita is quick to say that you can be beautiful on any budget, it strikes me that the secret to being attractive is money. Can you afford a dietitian and personal trainer (who would like you to eat organic gluten free expensive ass bread while doing endless pilates), a dermatologist (who would like you to buy all these expensive ass products), a personal waxer (we've covered how body hair is literally the devil), a plastic surgeon, expensive lingerie and perfume (because you're a goddamn lady) and tons of pricey makeup (see previous parentheses)? Because if you can then yeah, you're probably way hotter than I am. Meanwhile, I've deposited pennies into my bank account because I needed them. Haha, poverty!
Finally, do you watch like, any Youtube beauty tutorials? Or browse any makeup related communities? Because if you do, then you know everything in this book. There's nothing new here; it's all stuff you'll have seen a million times before on the internet and will see a million times again. I don't know about y'all, but there's only so many times a girl can watch someone explain what a beauty blender is and why it's awesome to pay 25 dollars for a sponge. (FYI: the Real Techniques sponge is better. And cheaper.)
Would I recommend this book? Yes, if you'd like to oogle pictures of Dita and admire her absolute dedication to never referring to Marilyn Manson by name unless she absolutely has to but then ruins that by giving him a blurb on the back cover. Yes, if you're a total makeup novice whose literally made of money, like a bank in a skin suit (gross). Yes, if you need something really heavy and rectangular.
No, if you're as chafe prone as me. No, if you wanted something well thought out and detailed.
January 29, 2016
I'm not sure I can add anything of significance that previous reviewers haven't already said-- the pictures are beautiful, and if you want to achieve a 1940/1950's pinup girl look, this is your bible. Outside of that very specific aesthetic, you're unlikely to get very much out of this book.
However, I guess it is worth saying that DVT was a blonde midwestern girl who could've passed through life without causing so much of a blink if not for a tube of red lipstick and the glamour girls of the movies past. She decided what she liked and come hell or high-water, she lives that shit. So do what you want, what you want with your body.
But if what you want is a book about eccentric beauty, wait for Tilda Swinton to write one.
However, I guess it is worth saying that DVT was a blonde midwestern girl who could've passed through life without causing so much of a blink if not for a tube of red lipstick and the glamour girls of the movies past. She decided what she liked and come hell or high-water, she lives that shit. So do what you want, what you want with your body.
But if what you want is a book about eccentric beauty, wait for Tilda Swinton to write one.
February 7, 2017
From the time I was about nine or so, I started devouring beauty tips in women’s magazines. A year or so later, I’d sometimes spend my pocket money on beauty books. It was no surprise really that I went to beauty school at the age of 16 and was a beauty therapist for a few years. Beauty has always interested me, not so much make-up and hair, but specifically skin care. I don’t wear any make up really. I’m also not one for plastic surgery. I just enjoy taking care of my skin as much as is reasonably possible. My daughter seems to have taken after me. We both talk about skin care quite often and have fun with all that. I borrowed this book from her. This is not the sort of beauty book that I would have bought myself, although I would have loved it when I was younger.
Dita Von Teese is a burlesque artist, and conservative, old-fashioned me is really not into things like that at all! The pictures are definitely pretty, but also quite provocative to say the least, in other words, not the sort of book that one wants to necessarily have lying around. Mind you, I simply adore the whole vintage look which she embraces. I wish that I could do all that she does � the beautifully styled hair, the make-up, the all-over glam, but I don’t believe that I can. I’m terrible with hair and I’m certainly outdated when it comes to make up. I like her approach to gentle exercise. I also like her friendly writing style.
She's naturally blond and I thought her transformation was interesting.
Overall, I can’t say that I learned much from this book. The tips are mostly things that I already know, but I’m happy that I read it. I enjoy beauty and health books and find them motivating. I remember watching an interview with Martha Stewart many years ago. The interviewer was basically asking her if the average person is really going to do the things that she suggests. Martha’s reply was something to the effect of: even if someone does only one thing, follows only one suggestion or tip, that’s still a good thing, to take what you want from it and to go from there. This is my approach to books such as this. All in all, this is a fun and enjoyable read for all those who are into girly things, vintage glamour, and all things feminine.
Dita Von Teese is a burlesque artist, and conservative, old-fashioned me is really not into things like that at all! The pictures are definitely pretty, but also quite provocative to say the least, in other words, not the sort of book that one wants to necessarily have lying around. Mind you, I simply adore the whole vintage look which she embraces. I wish that I could do all that she does � the beautifully styled hair, the make-up, the all-over glam, but I don’t believe that I can. I’m terrible with hair and I’m certainly outdated when it comes to make up. I like her approach to gentle exercise. I also like her friendly writing style.
She's naturally blond and I thought her transformation was interesting.
Overall, I can’t say that I learned much from this book. The tips are mostly things that I already know, but I’m happy that I read it. I enjoy beauty and health books and find them motivating. I remember watching an interview with Martha Stewart many years ago. The interviewer was basically asking her if the average person is really going to do the things that she suggests. Martha’s reply was something to the effect of: even if someone does only one thing, follows only one suggestion or tip, that’s still a good thing, to take what you want from it and to go from there. This is my approach to books such as this. All in all, this is a fun and enjoyable read for all those who are into girly things, vintage glamour, and all things feminine.
October 14, 2022
I really admire Dita's style and eye for detail. Did you know she does her own hair and make-up? And those vintage curl styles aren't easy.
Sadly she can't write, and neither can her gossip columnist co-author, sorry.
I've seen interviews with Dita before and she is eloquent and knows her business and her special interest (vintage hair, make-up and lifestyle) very well). A fascinating person, to be sure.
But the writing was terrible and the content rather vapid at times.
I think a memoir of Dita's life would have been more interesting to read, rather than this how-to book that had way too much filler (400 pages, imagine! And so many photos)
Many of the photos I did not enjoy: they felt vapid and shallow. Not because of Dita, but because of the photographer. Ironically the most expressive photos (by the amazing Ellen von Unwerth) showed Dita nearly naked. So no, the show-girliness isn't what made the shoots vapid and shallow, at all!
There is a very thick layer of artifice over most of the book. And while playful, beautifying artifice is the point of this book (and of glamour and burlesque in general), too much cheapens the soup.
I don't recommend this. Maybe one day there will be a comprehensive documentary about Dita's beauty routines: shot and directed by competent people, with an interviewer who knows what to ask. That could be amazing.
"Your Beauty Mark" is a failure.
------------
Do you mind ... puns?
I didn't think I did, but I do.
My god.
Venus with furs
Faux Real
And the relentless catchphrase of this book "make your beauty mark". Not a chapter goes by without it being dropped.
It never stops.
The book does have very beautiful pictures of Dita (with more or less clothes) and while I greatly admire her style, poise, and fashion sense, I learned nothing from these photos. In terms of illustrative merit, there is none.
Some of the chapters are particularly grating: Dita used a historical perfume (Quelques Fleurs by the French house Houbigant - makers of perfume since 1775) for two decades, but then she dated a man whose mother wore that fragrance and she decided to launch her own cheap perfume line.
Yes, I KNOW, most - even and especially expensive - perfumes these days are fake and cheap. I use an Elie Saab fragrance and while they have quite the price tag, they are purely synthetic trash in an arguably nice bottle. I doubt Dita's fragrances are worse than that. However, to write an entire chapter comparing "her" fragrances to a heritage fragrance that is more than a century old (Qualques Fleurs was first created in 1912) seems like a stretch to me.
I am about half-way through and this reads like a Harper's Bazaar column. Incidentally, gossip articles for just that magazine is exactly what Rose Apocada wrote before she joined this literary masterpiece.
Sadly she can't write, and neither can her gossip columnist co-author, sorry.
I've seen interviews with Dita before and she is eloquent and knows her business and her special interest (vintage hair, make-up and lifestyle) very well). A fascinating person, to be sure.
But the writing was terrible and the content rather vapid at times.
I think a memoir of Dita's life would have been more interesting to read, rather than this how-to book that had way too much filler (400 pages, imagine! And so many photos)
Many of the photos I did not enjoy: they felt vapid and shallow. Not because of Dita, but because of the photographer. Ironically the most expressive photos (by the amazing Ellen von Unwerth) showed Dita nearly naked. So no, the show-girliness isn't what made the shoots vapid and shallow, at all!
There is a very thick layer of artifice over most of the book. And while playful, beautifying artifice is the point of this book (and of glamour and burlesque in general), too much cheapens the soup.
I don't recommend this. Maybe one day there will be a comprehensive documentary about Dita's beauty routines: shot and directed by competent people, with an interviewer who knows what to ask. That could be amazing.
"Your Beauty Mark" is a failure.
------------
Do you mind ... puns?
I didn't think I did, but I do.
My god.
Venus with furs
Faux Real
And the relentless catchphrase of this book "make your beauty mark". Not a chapter goes by without it being dropped.
It never stops.
The book does have very beautiful pictures of Dita (with more or less clothes) and while I greatly admire her style, poise, and fashion sense, I learned nothing from these photos. In terms of illustrative merit, there is none.
Some of the chapters are particularly grating: Dita used a historical perfume (Quelques Fleurs by the French house Houbigant - makers of perfume since 1775) for two decades, but then she dated a man whose mother wore that fragrance and she decided to launch her own cheap perfume line.
Yes, I KNOW, most - even and especially expensive - perfumes these days are fake and cheap. I use an Elie Saab fragrance and while they have quite the price tag, they are purely synthetic trash in an arguably nice bottle. I doubt Dita's fragrances are worse than that. However, to write an entire chapter comparing "her" fragrances to a heritage fragrance that is more than a century old (Qualques Fleurs was first created in 1912) seems like a stretch to me.
I am about half-way through and this reads like a Harper's Bazaar column. Incidentally, gossip articles for just that magazine is exactly what Rose Apocada wrote before she joined this literary masterpiece.
January 20, 2016
If I were in charge of choosing the subtitle for this book I wouldn't have called it a guide to eccentric glamour. It definitely promotes the idea of created, surreal beauty and the idea of beauty as an art form. However, for Dita her particular brand of beauty is rooted firmly in vintage glamour which promotes traditional femininity. I'm sure this will come as no surprise to anyone familiar with Dita, but her aversion to female body hair (for example) could justifiably annoy some people considering how much the book emphasises the importance of doing what makes you feel good about yourself.
In saying all that I did for the most part enjoy the book. It is meticulously researched and very thorough, obviously influenced by beauty books of yesteryear. At the same time it also doesn't shy away from far more modern, and somewhat controversial topics. There's an entire chapter dedicated to plastic surgery. Most of the beauty tips and tricks won't particularly be revelations to people who already adopt a lot of vintage influences in their style, but everything is well explained and usually illustrated with pictures too.
One topic I was particularly happy to see her touch on was how women of colour are often overlooked when it comes to the vintage trend, discussing several stars from the Golden age of Hollywood such as Anna May Wong and Dolores Del Rio, and interviewing modern pin up model Angelique Noire.
Overall the book is beautifully presented, just what you'd expect from a beauty book penned by Dita von Teese, and if that sounds like something you would enjoy well worth a read.
In saying all that I did for the most part enjoy the book. It is meticulously researched and very thorough, obviously influenced by beauty books of yesteryear. At the same time it also doesn't shy away from far more modern, and somewhat controversial topics. There's an entire chapter dedicated to plastic surgery. Most of the beauty tips and tricks won't particularly be revelations to people who already adopt a lot of vintage influences in their style, but everything is well explained and usually illustrated with pictures too.
One topic I was particularly happy to see her touch on was how women of colour are often overlooked when it comes to the vintage trend, discussing several stars from the Golden age of Hollywood such as Anna May Wong and Dolores Del Rio, and interviewing modern pin up model Angelique Noire.
Overall the book is beautifully presented, just what you'd expect from a beauty book penned by Dita von Teese, and if that sounds like something you would enjoy well worth a read.
August 1, 2022
This was a lot of fun to read and had a lot of interesting tips I want to use in my life. I think Dita is charming and funny, I really hope I can see her live one day.
August 8, 2018
I liked her book a lot. Well, as much as you can like this type of books. While reading it I felt that she is so genuine and funny, aspects which you can't observe while she is dancing on a stage. You will understand her and her personality better.
May 7, 2016
Fabulous. Amazing. A work of art. This thing is full to the brim with the wonders and secrets of one of my only style icons. I won't ever need another beauty book!
April 13, 2024
Mother mothered when Dita released this glamorous book detailing all of her beauty tips and tricks! New beauty bible.
I love you, Dita! 👯♀️⭐️❤�
I love you, Dita! 👯♀️⭐️❤�
May 7, 2016
Overall, I was very impressed with this book. It is packed full of information- from the historical to the technical to the philosophical. A wide range of beauty topics is covered: hair, makeup, fragrance, exercise, even diet and plastic surgery (on which subjects Dita comes across incredibly honest and refreshing). For someone who desires a retro aesthetic and isn't sure where to begin, this would be an absolute bible. As someone who has already read and studied a great deal about old Hollywood/retro/vintage, there wasn't a whole lot of new information for me- maybe the random tidbit here or there. It is nice to have all of it in one place. For me, the greatest strength of this book is in the fantastic photographs throughout that are beautiful and certainly inspire hair/makeup/style goals. Dita's voice comes through clearly and expertly in all of the writing (and there is a lot- much more than I expected), and it really feels like she's talking directly to you, giving you a sneak peek into her lifestyle.
The things about this book I would change? The title and the way it is presented/marketed. This book is all about how to "be" DVT, which is fantastic. I want to know her secrets and tips and opinions- it's why I checked it out in the first place. So instead of "Your Beauty Mark" this should really be "My Beauty Mark"- Dita's. Sure, she gives ideas in the different sections about how to make her ideas your own, but this is not a book about finding an original/inventive look all your own. It is very much a book about how to get a specific type of look- retro/vintage/pinup/burlesque a' la Dita. Those who have criticized her for saying body hair needs to be removed are missing the point...if you want to be authentically vintage, it's part of the look. The entire package here is very specific, and since I love retro and vintage style, it was great for me. If you're not into her style and look, this won't be the beauty book for you. And to me, there's nothing "eccentric" about it; I personally think all women look fabulous with a cat eye and a red lip and clothing that emphasizes the waist.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone hoping to learn more about or achieve the type of style DVT embodies. While there is no way I could do all of the things she does on a regular basis (I'm sure she is quicker with all the practice she's had, but to do my shower, skincare, hair and makeup, etc. like she does it would take me hours every day), I definitely found inspiration in pieces here and there. I have to admit I'm thoroughly jealous of her amazing clothes, "flawless" finger waves, and her lifestyle that takes her from Paris to Hollywood and back. I was also impressed with how accessible, honest, and even down to earth she seemed to come across. She has very definitive opinions- she is the expert on this type of style- but she also seems very open-minded and refreshing. All-in-all, a worthwhile and enjoyable read.
*After giving this 5 stars, I've thought more about it, and I think it's more of a solid 4. Very good, but not perfect.
The things about this book I would change? The title and the way it is presented/marketed. This book is all about how to "be" DVT, which is fantastic. I want to know her secrets and tips and opinions- it's why I checked it out in the first place. So instead of "Your Beauty Mark" this should really be "My Beauty Mark"- Dita's. Sure, she gives ideas in the different sections about how to make her ideas your own, but this is not a book about finding an original/inventive look all your own. It is very much a book about how to get a specific type of look- retro/vintage/pinup/burlesque a' la Dita. Those who have criticized her for saying body hair needs to be removed are missing the point...if you want to be authentically vintage, it's part of the look. The entire package here is very specific, and since I love retro and vintage style, it was great for me. If you're not into her style and look, this won't be the beauty book for you. And to me, there's nothing "eccentric" about it; I personally think all women look fabulous with a cat eye and a red lip and clothing that emphasizes the waist.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone hoping to learn more about or achieve the type of style DVT embodies. While there is no way I could do all of the things she does on a regular basis (I'm sure she is quicker with all the practice she's had, but to do my shower, skincare, hair and makeup, etc. like she does it would take me hours every day), I definitely found inspiration in pieces here and there. I have to admit I'm thoroughly jealous of her amazing clothes, "flawless" finger waves, and her lifestyle that takes her from Paris to Hollywood and back. I was also impressed with how accessible, honest, and even down to earth she seemed to come across. She has very definitive opinions- she is the expert on this type of style- but she also seems very open-minded and refreshing. All-in-all, a worthwhile and enjoyable read.
*After giving this 5 stars, I've thought more about it, and I think it's more of a solid 4. Very good, but not perfect.
January 8, 2016
This book is a distillation of Dita Von Teese's personal experience in creating the fiction that is her persona, both on and offstage. There is a wealth of fun, traditional, mid-twentieth century femme in here, strained through a 21st century knowledge filter.
The reason I rate the book all the way up at 4 stars is two fold: it's beautifully produced, and she includes a lot of detail about how to actually live in and maintain the kind of look she carries off. Turns out it is exactly as difficult as it looks, and she sugar coats none of it. For this alone, I applaud her.
The reason I do not give it 5 stars is there were missed opportunities to be more inclusive and potentially progressive in the work. For one example, she does profile Angelique Noire, but misses the chance to bring her back in the hair chapters to have her share her experience with textured, natural hair in retro looks. But perhaps Ms.Noire will have her own book soon! One can hope.
In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and encourage other readers to do as I have done: take what you need and leave the rest!
The reason I rate the book all the way up at 4 stars is two fold: it's beautifully produced, and she includes a lot of detail about how to actually live in and maintain the kind of look she carries off. Turns out it is exactly as difficult as it looks, and she sugar coats none of it. For this alone, I applaud her.
The reason I do not give it 5 stars is there were missed opportunities to be more inclusive and potentially progressive in the work. For one example, she does profile Angelique Noire, but misses the chance to bring her back in the hair chapters to have her share her experience with textured, natural hair in retro looks. But perhaps Ms.Noire will have her own book soon! One can hope.
In the end, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and encourage other readers to do as I have done: take what you need and leave the rest!
April 22, 2017
The main issue I had with this book, is that we disagree on our opinions about body hair on women.
I want my own copy of this book simply for the hair and make-up tutorials. I occasionally like to look like a retro pin-up. :P
I want my own copy of this book simply for the hair and make-up tutorials. I occasionally like to look like a retro pin-up. :P
June 17, 2018
Podręcznik Dity w oryginale ma tytuł „Your Beauty Mark� i szkoda mi, że polski tytuł zatracił przypieczętowanie tego dobitnego przekazu odnośnie osobistego znaku piękna, w domyśle pasji i stylu, na rzecz rozmytego hasełka jak z magazynu dla pań: „Bądź piękna�. To brzmi jak nakaz i przymus każdej kobiety, co prowadzi do szkodliwej presji, a chodziło o otworzenie się na każdy rodzaj piękna, nie ważne, ile ma się lat, jakiej jest się płci i na jakie cierpi choroby.
Pełna recenzja:
Pełna recenzja:
February 9, 2016
This was a fun read. It's like French Women Don't Get Fat, but more holistic about personal care and grooming. Even the writing seems so elegant and glamorous. The pictures are a bit risque--definitely NSFW, and you may not be comfortable having this lying around the house if there are younger kids living with you. The photography is incredible, though, and very much a celebration of the feminine.
ON THE OTHER HAND...this book can also be taken as proof that ideals of feminine beauty are ridiculously inflated and preached as absolutes. Von Teese is disgusted by things like underarm hair and doesn't seem to understand that beauty can be subjective. Also, this is not a busy woman's guide to looking gorgeous. Regularly doing everything she does and preaches--from maintaining a healthy diet to applying perfuming the right way--is at least one full-time job, if not two. If you are a harried mother who barely has enough time to brush her hair in the morning, you are bound to feel defeated just by reading this book.
I think it comes down to how the reader approaches this book. A couple of chapters in, realized I shouldn't read this book as "omg how can I be like her." Rather, my thinking should be: "If I were to just pick three guidelines/tips in personal care from this book, what would they be?" Even if I never do the other things she preaches, it's just so lovely to read about the art of taking care of oneself. She doesn't do these things mechanically--she luxuriates in them and they reflect her self worth, and we could all use a bit of that at the end of the day (assuming we are privileged in the Maslow's hierarchy of needs sorta way).
ON THE OTHER HAND...this book can also be taken as proof that ideals of feminine beauty are ridiculously inflated and preached as absolutes. Von Teese is disgusted by things like underarm hair and doesn't seem to understand that beauty can be subjective. Also, this is not a busy woman's guide to looking gorgeous. Regularly doing everything she does and preaches--from maintaining a healthy diet to applying perfuming the right way--is at least one full-time job, if not two. If you are a harried mother who barely has enough time to brush her hair in the morning, you are bound to feel defeated just by reading this book.
I think it comes down to how the reader approaches this book. A couple of chapters in, realized I shouldn't read this book as "omg how can I be like her." Rather, my thinking should be: "If I were to just pick three guidelines/tips in personal care from this book, what would they be?" Even if I never do the other things she preaches, it's just so lovely to read about the art of taking care of oneself. She doesn't do these things mechanically--she luxuriates in them and they reflect her self worth, and we could all use a bit of that at the end of the day (assuming we are privileged in the Maslow's hierarchy of needs sorta way).
May 30, 2020
I've always admired Dita's esthetics, style and taste, and thought this would be a deep delve into her inspiration and references. I thought wrong, because this book is rather a head to toe guide to *being* Dita, from diet to nails, skincare and makeup, seemingly aimed at Neanderthals who had never heard of a hair brush or lipstick. You might buy this for a preteen girl to encourage hygienic habits, were it not for the weird chapter about plastic surgery (which neglects the serious health implications and societal pressures women face for the sake of "beauty"). In fact, I'm sure that feminism professors would take issue with the entire book, which perpetuates myths about attraction, femininity and womanhood - but I digress.
It's not that I don't care about Dita's diet and exercise tips, but rather that I think it's the least interesting thing about her. She has clearly lived such an interesting life, so why focus on borderline preachy topics instead of talking about her story?
There are redeeming elements to the book, hence the two-star rating. First is Dita's appreciation for fragrance, elegantly described in the appropriate chapter (minus points for promoting her own products among the icons). The other is the final chapter, which briefly touches on Dita's pre- and post-show routine, and accidentally summarizes the entirety of the book. Oh, well.
It's not that I don't care about Dita's diet and exercise tips, but rather that I think it's the least interesting thing about her. She has clearly lived such an interesting life, so why focus on borderline preachy topics instead of talking about her story?
There are redeeming elements to the book, hence the two-star rating. First is Dita's appreciation for fragrance, elegantly described in the appropriate chapter (minus points for promoting her own products among the icons). The other is the final chapter, which briefly touches on Dita's pre- and post-show routine, and accidentally summarizes the entirety of the book. Oh, well.
December 29, 2015
The first thing that caught my eye is that this is a very pretty book, full of gorgeous photography. Then I started reading it, and realized that I already knew many of the beauty tips, as my grandma taught them to me when I was younger--which doesn't in any way detract from the book, it's a good thing. This is a book about classic glamour, so it makes sense that there would be timeless advice given.
With any beauty or style guide, there's a good chance that not everything will appeal to everyone, and that is true for me and this book; however, I still really enjoyed it, and the bits that I don't relate to personally are still interesting to read about. So, no, I'm never going to be glam 24 hours a day, every day, but that doesn't mean I didn't pick up some good ideas and I got a refresher on others.
Did I mention that this is a very pretty book?
With any beauty or style guide, there's a good chance that not everything will appeal to everyone, and that is true for me and this book; however, I still really enjoyed it, and the bits that I don't relate to personally are still interesting to read about. So, no, I'm never going to be glam 24 hours a day, every day, but that doesn't mean I didn't pick up some good ideas and I got a refresher on others.
Did I mention that this is a very pretty book?
March 15, 2017
It's finally over. 4.2 stars average, really ŷ? The photos were gorgeous, to be sure, but the obsession with vintage Hollywood was repetitive and I didn't catch an 'eccentric' angle at all. There were a few interesting tips (steel cut oats made with strong tea, coconut oil in lieu of lotion, opera gloves while driving... rouging nipples - well, jury's still out on this one). I'd have liked close-up detail on her cat's eye and more than just a glossing over on blonde hair. Beauty Mark was a nice change of pace but I'm more than ready for substantive material.
December 25, 2015
I love Dita Von Teese! So I was excited about reading her newest book. Like her other books it is filled with stunning photographs which even my daughter loves looking at. Inside you will find tips and advice about makeup, excercise, and hairstyle and so much more. This is a great book and is a must for women interested in beauty or people who are huge fans of her.
June 26, 2020
"Makeup is as essential as shelter and bread." I don't know what bothers me most, the self-congratulating tone, the factual errors or disguising a memoir as an "ultimate guide."
March 12, 2016
There aren't enough words for how I adore Dita Von Teese. But let me try to express how much I adore her book.
If you're a fan of beauty and glamour, this book is for you.
If you're a fan of vintage, classic elegance and want to know more about it, this book is for you.
If you believe role models can be found and adopted from any era, this book is for you.
This book is written in such a lovely, playful way, completely evocative of Dita's stage presence. But there's an intimacy you won't find on the stage, too. And yet, you never lose track of the fact that this is one incredibly strong lady who follows her passions, even when people tsk and judge her for them. Her beauty tips are tips I can happily follow, even though my main passion is Krav Maga and you wouldn't think those two things blend.
Now for an anecdote: It's so good that when I went to lunch with my fairly conservative mother yesterday she spent the whole time reading this book (my book! that I had just bought!) instead of looking at her phone. She is now a fan.
Kudos to you, Dita, the most glamorous woman in the world.
If you're a fan of beauty and glamour, this book is for you.
If you're a fan of vintage, classic elegance and want to know more about it, this book is for you.
If you believe role models can be found and adopted from any era, this book is for you.
This book is written in such a lovely, playful way, completely evocative of Dita's stage presence. But there's an intimacy you won't find on the stage, too. And yet, you never lose track of the fact that this is one incredibly strong lady who follows her passions, even when people tsk and judge her for them. Her beauty tips are tips I can happily follow, even though my main passion is Krav Maga and you wouldn't think those two things blend.
Now for an anecdote: It's so good that when I went to lunch with my fairly conservative mother yesterday she spent the whole time reading this book (my book! that I had just bought!) instead of looking at her phone. She is now a fan.
Kudos to you, Dita, the most glamorous woman in the world.
January 17, 2016
I adore Dita and find that I gladly go back to her previous books for an energising dose of beauty, glamour and fantasy. Unfortunately, this book isn't a favourite of mine and I think we all know it takes much more effort to become a pin-up goddess than a few pages of advice.
I prefer my Dita in a cloud of mystery and ridiculously fascinating poshness not talking moustache waxing and brow plucking. I also felt that the message of the previous books was a lot stronger and healthier- it didn't focus so much on hairy armpits (unacceptable!) but on finding that inner beauty that ultimately makes you so alluring.
I prefer my Dita in a cloud of mystery and ridiculously fascinating poshness not talking moustache waxing and brow plucking. I also felt that the message of the previous books was a lot stronger and healthier- it didn't focus so much on hairy armpits (unacceptable!) but on finding that inner beauty that ultimately makes you so alluring.
May 26, 2018
Despite my love of vintage, I wear vintage and vintage style clothing everyday, I suspected I’d hate this book and I was right. For one thing pinup is not the only vintage look or even a particularly accurate vintage look. Look at some real vintage photos of ordinary people and youll see what I mean. Second this is NOT any sort of alternative or eccentric beauty guide it’s actually very mundane and boring. It is not about celebrating differences and uniqueness, it’s about Dita’s narrow ideas. Even as a person who loves dressing up I couldn’t be bothered to do 1//10 of what she does. I have better things to do. Dita comes of as pretentious and judgemental. Not a good look.
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