Marie Devilreux: From Fetish Fashion to Neo-Burlesque Empowerment
- Leo Brooklyn
- 19 hours ago
- 5 min read
LEO BROOKLYN IN CONVERSATION with MARIE DEVILREUX
PHOTOGRAPHY by LEO BROOKLYN
A VISION CONJURED FROM PULP DREAMS AND FETISH NOIR—A MODERN-DAY SHOWGIRL WITH THE POISE OF OLD HOLLYWOOD AND THE BITE OF SOMETHING FAR LESS POLITE.
Born in Brazil and based between London and the world at large, she has become a fixture of the neo-burlesque renaissance: a performer, dominatrix, and style icon whose presence ripples across the spheres of fashion, nightlife, and underground culture. Whether wrapped in latex or lace, she carries herself with the authority of a woman who has never once asked for permission. In every room, Marie Devilreux is both spectacle and spell.
PETIT MORT (Leo brooklyn)
I remember when I photographed you, we realized we are both Leos. I just turned 40 on July 29. Remind me, when is your birthday?
MARIE DEVILREUX
August 4.
Do you celebrate your birthday?
Not anymore. The older I get, the less I want to celebrate—not because of age. I think I’m way better now. I feel more beautiful than when I was younger, and I like myself more. But as I get older, I have less patience for people. I don’t want to be surrounded by those who might not care about me tomorrow. I just want to be with my cat. That’s what I like doing.
Are you planning any parties for your 40th?
Yes, I am! I was having an emotional breakdown, like, "Oh, I’m turning 40 and nobody cares about me!" I was being so dramatic. Then I told myself, "No, bitch, get it together." I’m really cool, and I’ve met a lot of amazing women in New York in the past two years. It’s amazing to turn 40! So I planned a big party at a brand-new roller skating rink and invited 30 women. I only like women. I don’t like men anymore. I don’t need male energy in my life.
I’ve always had a lot of gay friends. That’s my middle ground because I don’t like men—they’re gross—but women don’t normally like me.
I've only been in New York for two years. I don't know where my gay friends are. I must find them! Anyway, tell me where you're from and what brought you to London.
