How to Make a Burlesque Bustle Skirt

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Things You'll Need

  • Short black satin slip

  • 7 yards of matching or complimentary-colored satin

  • 7 yards of black tulle

  • Matching thread

  • Straight pins

  • Tape measure

  • Sewing machine

  • Lace edging (optional)

With burlesque dancing and style gaining popularity in mainstream culture, a short and sassy burlesque bustle skirt is a smart addition to any wardrobe. While you can purchase a pre-made bustle skirt from a retailer, you can save money by making your own using a short black satin slip you've either recycled from your own wardrobe or hunted down at a thrift store.

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Step 1

Measure and cut the satin fabric into three sections that are 2.33 yards in length each.

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Step 2

Measure and cut the tulle into three sections that are 2.33 yards in length each.

Step 3

Lay one piece of tulle flat on a large work surface. Place a piece of satin, shiny side up, on top of the tulle. Pin the pieces of material together along the top edges. Repeat this with the remaining pieces of tulle and satin.

Step 4

Sew the top edges of the tulle and satin together on a sewing machine.

Step 5

Lay your satin slip flat with the backside facing up. Pin the right corner of one piece of tulle/satin to the far, right corner of the waistband (by the right seam). Create a ruffle by folding back the material like a fan and pinning it into place an inch away from the first pin. Continue to fold and pin the material across the waist band until you get to the left edge of the slip.

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Step 6

Flip the first layer up so it is out of the way and pin another tulle/satin piece into place using the same technique so that the first overlaps it when it is flipped back down. Repeat this step by flipping the first an second layer up and pinning the last piece of tulle/satin into place.

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Step 7

Sew the top edge of the layers onto the slip. Once you've completed this step, the bustle skirt is ready for you to shake and shimmy in. You can pin and sew lace edging around the waistband of the bustle skirt and the bottom edges of each bustle ruffle to create a fancier look.

Tip

Wear your new bustle skirt with fishnets, tank top or camisole, a satin ribbon choker necklace and Mary Jane style high-heels for a sexy evening look.

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