Bringing Back Burlesque….

Not all of us are ready to be burlesque superstars… maybe you’re shy, have a bit of body-consciousness, or have a moral or religious reason not to bare your flesh in public. But that’s okay!

Because we can still have fun and incorporate a bit of Boom-Cha-Cha in to our daily lives!

♥ Look Underneath…
Who says adding a bit of sass and spice to your wardrobe has to be visible to the world? (And who says it doesn’t have to be?)

Image by Kmlz

Plus sized gals can enjoy this pleated skirt panty or these red leopard print rumba panties underneath their work wear, and for the slimmer gals, I do know that my favorite, Trashy Diva can sell you similar rumba panties!

If you’re feeling a bit more bold, why not incorporate some pasties in place of your bra for the next rock show you go to? If you’re really extroverted, try a pair of patterned pasties underneath a white tank top. Evocative, sure. Borderline trashy, maybe a bit. Totally sexy? Absolutely.

A subtle look that can be incorporated in to nearly any outfit is through textured tights. One of my favorite accessories are nude colored fishnets. I love that they add texture up close and are a bit of a surprise when you see them. They’re a bit less in your face than black fishnets are, but can illicit the same response.

♥ All That Glitters Is (Not) Gold
I loved Sydni Deveraux’s suggestions to make your shoes standout by adding sequins and rhinestones. What better way to add a bit of nightlife glam to your day-to-day life than through sequin and rhinestone additions? Or, how about some tassels (that *aren’t* attached to pasties)?

I love these Oh Deer! sequined t-straps in gold and also in silver.

You can enjoy the fringe benefits with great shoes like these Irregular Choice Bird of Paradise shoes or these (slightly insane) Boudoir shoes (a nice interpretation of marabou feather heels!) No need to dazzle up these pretty babies, they’ve got all the flash and flair you could need on a dance floor!

For more tassle and fringe fun, Jennine at the Coveted has some great DIY tutorials that can easily be converted for burlesque fun: The Fringy Tank and Put Your Head on My Shoulder (Pad).

Topsy Turvy Designs makes great burlesque inspired pieces to complete your look head to toe like this
feather & rhinestone headband or this peacock and feather brooch/fascinator or these rhinestone bobby pins.

♥You Can Fake It
Fake eyelashes don’t have to be so dramatic as Shu Uemura, and you can certainly play with them during the day! A subtle pair of false eyelashes can enhance the natural look of your face (much like shading and shaping your eyebrows can).

Envision yourself a blond, but not ready to break out the bleach? Fancy yourself with copper locks for a Gilda impersonation but just for one night? Maybe you’re practicing a Marie Antionette solo? Change is easy-peasy with a wig.

Image by Obo-Bobolina

Maybe in real life you’re as sweet as pie, but on the stage you’re naughty by nature… how about some fake tattoos for a fun play on gender and deviancy?

And lastly, the best and easiest way to incorporate a bit of burlesque on to your body… with your brassiere! There’s no better way to fake it– whether padded, with silicon baubles, or extra push-up power!

Any other ideas for adding some oomph and ooh-la-la to your daily dressings? How about a bit of naughty hidden beyond your nice? Better yet, how about some Polyvore action– show me your best ways to add some burlesque inspiration to your wardrobe!

Also check out Birdiee’s more recent post on how to dress for a night out at burlesque!