The magnificent transgender voguer Octavia Saint Laurent has passed away in New York. Octavia starred in the classic film Paris is Burning, and changed her name variously to Heavenly Angel Octavia Saint Laurent Manolo Blahnik, before settling on Octavia Saint Laurent Mizrahi.

Octavia was a leader of the drag ball community and constructed herself and her life to match that of a supermodel's, involving outrageous outfits and non-stop glamour. She pursued wealth, fabulousness and luxury and rivaled many '80s models for style. Octavia was a huge fan of Paulina Poriskova, and adoringly dissects all her looks (which she's Blu-Tacked to her wall) in Paris is Burning.

Octavia's mad shapes and slinky moves were inspiration for Madonna's "vogue" era and Beyonce's All the single ladies routine. Just check her black and white outfit in the first video. Strike a pose indeed.

Octavia on her favourite model, Paulina Poriskova in Paris is Burning:

Octavia hosts the 2005 Pill awards: 

 

How Do I Look? trailer: