Costuming

A lot of people outside of the burlesque world don’t realize that we often make own our costumes. Now, there are some companies that provide you with a costume, I belong to one now where they have group costumes for us to use. But I’m talking about the solo looks! There are plenty of performers that buy costumes, make costumes, and sell costumes. And there are some extremely creative costumers out there. I’ve found some amazing pieces made by other performers that I’ve loved having in my closet. I really enjoy creating a whole head-to-toe look for a new character or concept.

Some of my silly costuming projects have been:
A cowgirl with an udder
A giant rainbow wiggle worm boa
A horse head that sits on top of my head

Some of my more unique pieces include:
Silk feather bird wings I can wear while doing aerial
A giant disco ball I can tuck into, pop out of, and roll away when I’m done!
A cotton candy dress, complete with a cone hairpiece

And then there’s my more classic burlesque looks that scream showgirl!

Sometimes I start from scratch with a sheet of fabric and a dream. Other times I’m taking an $8 bra and adding $80 worth of rhinestones and appliques onto it. Sometimes I am cutting up a dress to make it into a bustle, sleeves, and corset cover. Whatever approach I am taking, I really put my all into it. I often set up my mannequin, Dawn Standstill, and watch her new look coming together over a few weeks.