Этот материал выходит в i-D 377 «The Mother Issue», который уже доступен у отдельных ритейлеров и онлайн. illustration TOM BACHTELL

Жизнь — это долгий путь становления, и Amanda Lepore достигла своей блистательной финальной формы. Модель, музыкант, перформанс-артист, мемуаристка, доминатрикс — кем только ни была Lepore, она все это уже делала. Ее почти сорокалетняя карьера началась в маникюрных салонах, а затем — в ночных клубах New York City.

Там, где генетика обычно ограничивает рамки внешней красоты, она нашла способы создавать образ настоящей бомбы, не похожий ни на какой другой. Кроме того, Lepore известна как душка и красивый человек не только снаружи, но и внутри. Такую репутацию заслуживают те, кто защищает изгоев. Она поддерживает их с тех пор, как мир узнал ее имя. И теперь Lepore исцеляет недуги читателей i-D по всему миру, отвечая на их самые важные вопросы.

Воспоминания, уверенность и люди, которые вдохновляют

@THE_LOVELY_VANESSA asks: Can you tell me about an iconic memory?

The day I got my pussy done was life-changing. It made me feel like the woman I was meant to be.

@OFFICIALJP asks: When do you feel most like yourself?

When I’m glammed up and surrounded by people who love and accept me for who I am.

@URIELTION asks: What music are you listening to at the moment?

I like to listen to old disco classics, techno, house music remixes, and pop. I’m always in the mood for Britney Spears, Madonna, Cobrah, Cardi B, Arca, Kim Petras, Kevin Jz Prodigy, Morgin DuPont, Sophie Powers—and, of course, Alaska Thunderfuck and Willam Belli.

@SAJIDA.EXE asks: How did you get the confidence to do things without fear of judgement?

I was harassed as a kid, but I found the importance of doing what I love and what I think looks best. I eventually found people who love and adore me for who I am.

@GEORGE_ZLAT asks: How can I be at peace with myself?

Surround yourself with people who love you, encourage you, and inspire you. Eliminate people who bring darkness or negative energy to your life.

Кино, друзья и красная помада

@OFFICIALJP asks: You’ve collaborated with so many incredible artists. Which one changed your life the most?

Michael Alig and the early club kid scene helped me get underground fame in New York City. David LaChapelle helped me take on international fame and gain respect in the fashion and artworlds.

@DISCOFUCK.ING asks: What’s the film you’ve watched the most in your lifetime?

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.

@DEVENIDOO asks: Could you share a funny story about David LaChapelle?

When we shot the iconic MAC x Heatherette commercial, I was running through the desert on Route 66, carrying a suitcase and wearing nothing but pink body makeup and five-inch turquoise stilettos. I was being followed by the production team in a convertible car, and a family drove by asking if I was in trouble. They asked if I needed help, and I told them, “No, I’m alright, we are shooting a music video.” They drove off and then they came back and said, “Miss, are you sure you don’t need help? We will help you!” Although I’m grateful that they were so caring, I couldn’t help but laugh at the situation.

@POPPY_.V asks: Red apples or green?

Red, of course. I love all things red.

@ROSNOWING asks: What would you tell your 22-year-old self?

You’re going to have to get a passport. You are going to be travelling the world a lot.

Дива-энергия и spirit animal

@CREATING.ON.MARS asks: How can I unlock my true diva energy?

Pamper yourself, indulge in beauty, give yourself extra time getting ready. I know she’s in there, waiting to be awoken.

@THEENAILANGEL asks: What is your current favourite red lipstick?

I’ve been doing an ombré red lip using a Make Up For Ever burgundy lip liner, Stila liquid lipstick in Fiery, and Bossy lip gloss in Feisty over the liner and the sides—topped off with my Amanda Lepore Lip Gloss in the centre, drawn as a heart.

@S0PHIEROSE_ asks: What is your spirit animal?

A kitten, because I’m petite, soft, and I get what I want.