Drag Queen Inspiration: The Art, Icons, and Attitude Behind the Glam

Behind every dazzling performance, every meticulously crafted look, and every fierce strut down the runway lies a story of inspiration. Drag isn’t just about makeup and costumes—it’s an art form, a statement, and, for many, a way of life.

From legendary queens who paved the way to personal experiences that fuel creativity, every performer has a unique spark that ignites their transformation. We sat down with some incredible drag artists to uncover the sources of their magic, their muses, and what keeps them pushing boundaries in the ever-evolving world of drag.

Photo courtesy of Doris Dear.

Doris Dear

“Being Doris Dear is a profound and joyful experience that goes beyond the glitz and glamour of drag. When I step into Doris, I’m not just creating a character—I’m honouring my mother, my father, and my sister. Through Doris, I tell their stories of love, acceptance, and family, sharing the warmth and wisdom they brought into my life. This allows me to live with them once again, if only for a moment, and keep their memories alive in the hearts of others.

Doris Dear is a celebration of authenticity, artistry, and connection. She gives me the chance to blend music, humour, and heartfelt moments, crafting a space where audiences feel the joy and love that shaped my family. Through storytelling, I can inspire others to embrace who they are and remind them that acceptance and love are the greatest gifts we can give.“

Photo courtesy of Aimee Amour.

Aimee Amour

"I've always been drawn to both vintage, old Hollywood glamour and the more modern, cutting-edge fashion houses like Mugler, Balenciaga, and Schiaparelli. I tend to describe my drag as the blend of classic, Parisian sensibility with the Berlin edge. 

My garments and my makeup [as Aimee Amour] are always the first thing you see, so you know exactly what you're going to get when you come to an Aimee show: high fashion and high production. Have you seen someone perform an 80s-rock anthem in a gown? Well, that's what you're gonna get with me. No matter how small or dingy the venue, I aim to bring my best drag every single time. 

I think growing up in Berlin and discovering the underground techno scene and haute couture at the same time really taught me about 'spectacle!' Bright lights, big venues, and drama...it calls my name every single time. I recently performed with Duran Duran at Madison Square Garden, and that really reinforced my love of the stage. Every time I perform, no matter the occasion, I'm going to serve you headliner. That's what drag is all about to me."

Photo courtesy of Mycah.

Mycah

“Ever since I’ve started performing [as Mycah], the thing that mattered to me the most was interacting with the audience and making them feel a part of the show, too! That’s why I’ve often put together pop mixes or ballads with some instrumental here and there to allow me to go into the audience and perform closer to them. I like looking at them while I lip sync, allowing me to connect with every single person there. Without the audience, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do, so we owe it to them to capture their attention fully.

And to talk about divas who inspire me the most, I cannot not mention Cher, Rihanna, Chappell, Kylie, Gaga, Slayyyter, Charli, Kim Petras, and, most of all, my talented girlfriend Goldie Guilt. Her endless creativity allows me to fully express myself through the costumes she constructs, and that’s how I’m able to go on stage looking so correct!”

Photo courtesy of Goldie Guilt.

Goldie Guilt

“My main style references [for Goldie Guilt] are the space age and the 60s mod aesthetic created by designers like Pierre Cardin and Mary Quant, as well as the fashion of the Victorian/Edwardian era. Twiggy and Candy Darling are my muses, along with the works of Leigh Bowery, Amanda Lepore and all the Klub Kids. I try to merge all of that weird, freaky art with the magical girls of my childhood, and the misunderstood beauty of arthropods.

I also take inspiration from the eerie and fantastical imagery of Lovecraftian worlds. Speaking of musical icons, Dolly Parton is my favourite diva, but I also listen to Lana, Caroline Polachek, Grimes, Marina and The Diamonds, and a whole lot of musicals. On stage, my favourite thing is interacting with the audience, delivering high drama and campy performances or hosting on the mic.”

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Whether it’s the influence of pop culture icons, personal journeys of self-expression, or the electric energy of the drag community itself, inspiration is the heartbeat of every queen’s artistry. These performers prove that drag is more than just entertainment—it’s empowerment, storytelling, and an ever-growing legacy of creativity.

So, next time you see a queen take the stage, remember: behind the glamour is a world of passion, resilience, and inspiration just waiting to be shared.