Episode 15: Dita Von Teese & Gregory Arlt

Born Heather Sweet in West Branch, Michigan, Dita Von Teese grew up fascinated by the Golden Age of Cinema, pin-up imagery, and vintage lingerie. This naturally blond, mid-western girl then transformed herself into a glamour girl like those she admired. Performing striptease since 1992, she is the biggest name in burlesque in the world since Gypsy Rose Lee and is credited with bringing the art form back into the spotlight with a new sense of elegance and sophistication.

Gregory Arlt’s career begins on the streets of 1980s Los Angeles, where he became transfixed by the punks, new wavers and goths of Melrose Avenue. These days he opts for a quieter life. “My club days are long gone,” he explains, “so exploring and trying new restaurants or going to my tried and tested places make for a perfect night.” Still, a glass of Californian chardonnay accompanies nights spent at home, drawing, experimenting and trying out new ideas. His stellar career sees him head-up makeup teams for fashion week shows in Paris, Milan and New York as well as working with a roster of high-profile celebrities. It’s all about imagination, which Arlt believes can take you anywhere.