How to Create a Burlesque Costume

Assembling a Burlesque costume has the same basic principles whether you are seeking old-school glamour or new age meow. Here are the essentials and guidelines to dressing like a Burlesque Diva.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pasties. Pasties are small cups that are placed over the nipples. They are held on with an adhesive or spirit gum. Most pasties have glitter or sequins to draw attention themselves. Some pasties also have tassels. Not all tassels are functional. If you want to twirl tassels, be sure to purchase tassels designed to do so. Like most sports or performance arts, you are as good as your equipment. Twirlygirl.net has an excellent selection of professional tassel twirlers. They also take credit cards.

2. G-string. Not all Burlesque baby bottom cheeks are revealed. Some tassel twirlers prefer full bikini briefs. Nevertheless, the G-string is one popular option for derrière revelation. Go to Wikipedia for a more in-depth discussion of G-strings.

3. Corset. Wearing a corset in Burlesque is a style choice. Some Burlesque acts just demand a corset. Versatile Fashions has an incredible selection. Their customer service can help you with size selection.

4. Gloves. A glove peel is a classic Burlesque move. Long fantastic sexy gloves are an elegant addition to any Burlesque motif. Remember to check to make sure the gloves pull off easily. A good pair of opera gloves are designed to remain firmly in place. Be sure to purchase gloves designed for striptease. Burlesqueclothing.com has a good selection, including ones with 15-inch fringe.

5. Know costumes. There are some important factors to remember when assembling the body of your costume. First, the construction of the costume should scream durability. There is nothing worse than a costume ripping on stage. Also, the costume must to be easy to take off. The only thing worse than tearing on stage is getting one of your costume pieces stuck in the middle of a striptease. Your act is not the “I Love Lucy” show. A lot of costumes may look very cool fully dressed, but are not striptease functional. Burlesque does have a means to an end.

6. Costume designers. Purchasing your costume on the Halloween sale rack is tacky. Burlesque is about glamour and attitude. A discounted maid costume screams amateur. Eliza Engle has some interesting work. The Burlesque Clothing website focuses on fringe. Email your favorite Burlesque star and ask who makes their costumes. Also, try to find a good seamstress to create one of your own designs.

7. Shoes. Go to www.luckyloushoes.com to pick out your favorite pair of Lucky Lou Shoes. Remember that you have to be able to dance in those delicious toe tinglers. So straps are recommended.