✨BURLESQUE MYTH BUSTING✨

Think you have to wear high heels, a corset, and be dripping in rhinestones to do burlesque? Think again!

Here are some of my common bug bears or burlesque misconceptions!

1. High heels are not essential!

I hope we have moved on from a focus that you aren’t a ‘real’ performer without ankle breaking high heels.

In this day and age it’s pretty ableist to suggest that everyone has to be in stilettos!

2. Corsets are not essential!

While I know so many people that speak eloquently and educate on quality corsets. It’s also optional. Often the price point (and the discomfort!) is a massive barrier.

And we’ve all seen amazing costumes in all styles of burlesque that don’t need one. I’m also not here for the corset snobbery.

Remember that you have to shop within your means and what is available to you - both in size and financially. So I don’t think a corset is essential for a great burlesque costume or achieving a burlesque ‘look’ - you do whatever fits your shape, size and your bank balance!

3. Rhinestone….. I love them but they are not essential!

Rhinestones? Sparkle if you want to. I love a sparkle moment.

But if rhinestones made you a better performer then I’d be pretty awesome.

First thing’s first, I know that missing your rent or spending more than you earn from your arts practice on some crystals is not sustainable.

And it doesn’t make you ‘better’ or more bookable than someone else. It’s easy to get caught up in wanting a picture perfect image, but you need to make your career sustainable.

And remember, our legends of burlesque didn’t have rhinestone gowns. This has really been a trend generated by Catherine D’Lish and Dita Von Teese, as part of the new burlesque revival.

I think costumes with rhinestones can look amazing.

But remember burlesque is about expression, not a dress code. 💃