I?VE ALWAYS wondered why gay men --from the elegantly subdued to the regally flamboyant -- seem to gravitate toward Barbra Streisand. It?s as if this esteemed diva could do no wrong, and members of the ?pride?? simply want to capture her cinematic personality on every level and occasion permissible.

Earlier this year, I asked random friends for their take on the ?Streisand factor? --with a little bit of Cher on the side. What makes these women so enigmatic and desirable? And more importantly: What makes them beautiful in the eyes of many other divas?

?Streisand is gorgeous not only because of her talent but also the way she carries herself,? shares Maybelline makeup artist Harold Santos.

?She?s not the prototype of ideal beauty yet [one can?t help but be] enamored and convinced (and she convinces you) that she is beautiful.?

The actress-singer?s unconventional beauty and dynamic career path, according to Santos, makes her relatable.

?Who else has successfully conquered all entertainment media: music records, TV and movies? With her success, she has redefined the meaning of what is truly beautiful,? he says.

Touch of Cher

As for the other iconic diva, Cher, ?She?s literally ageless!? declares Santos. ?And she takes fashion risks; her style inspires you to be unique.?

Adds an unnamed gay publicist: ?Cher has constantly reinvented herself successfully and just seems
to transcend time. She?s such a survivor -- which makes her the ultimate gay icon.?

The moral of the story? Whether you?re celebrity royalty or a fabulous nine-to-fiver, here are three universal things --courtesy of the two women mentioned above -- to remember when it comes to owning your unique beauty and casting yourself in the best possible light:

1. Beauty is very subjective. More importantly, when physical beauty and good character go together, that makes one even more gorgeous.

2. Real beauty is effortless and should look effortless. If you carry yourself well and exude confidence, heads will turn and you will leave lasting impressions.

3. When somebody has a purpose in life and actively pursues it without losing her style -- that?s just fabulous.

Mariel Chua is the former beauty editor of Cosmopolitan, Seventeen and Ok! Magazine Philippines. Ask a beauty question at http://Beautyinthe
BigApple.com or visit her blog at http://NyMinute Now.com.