Since he first announced, “You better work!” drag diva RuPaul has done just that. The singer and host of Logo network hit “RuPaul’s Drag Race has just released a book, “Workin’ It” ($20, It Books). In the dishy tome, he reveals his style secrets (temporary face-lift kits!) and ways to find your true, fabulous self.
Q: Your book is part personal reveal and part empowerment message. How do you describe it?
A: This book is about owning your power. Playing small is something that so many people are taught to do, because it makes other people feel comfortable. We live in this media-saturated culture where you’re made to feel smaller unless you have a baby bump, are engaged or are dating one of the stars of “Twilight.” But none of that is true.
Q: You say that everyone is in drag, whether they’re in women’s clothes or not.
A: We’re all playing roles. You’re born naked and the rest is drag. I’ve spent my life perfecting this persona that people seem to enjoy. It pays my bills, and I get to have fun and be creative with it. But it’s not the truth of who I really am. Even me stark naked isn’t the truth of who I really am.
Q: How did you get into drag?
A: Me doing drag was something I stumbled onto. And I knew I should continue doing it based on the reaction I got. Just from simply shifting my physical appearance, I could tell other people could get me.
Q:In the book, you also give advice on makeup and wardrobes.
A: Even out of drag, you should see some of my get- ups. I love clothes; I change outfits three times a day, sometimes four. And this is all my men’s clothes, because the only time I’m in drag is when I’m getting paid. I do it for work, not because I feel the desire to.
Q: So, fashion is something you’re passionate about?
A: I guess that’s considered fashion, but I don’t want it to be confused with the fashion world. I love the clothes but not the people.
Q: What do you enjoy, then?
A: I like laughing, dancing and moving my booty to Kool and the Gang, and Adam Lambert. I love this country line- dancing place in L.A.
Q: Do you go out a lot?
A: The truth is, I’m an introvert masquerading as an extrovert. People have this impression that I’m a people person, but I’m really not. I enjoy being by myself.
