12 Stunning Burlesque Outfit Ideas Every Performer Needs
Burlesque outfit ideas female performers swear by aren’t just costumes—they’re confidence wrapped in sequins, feathers, and a whole lot of attitude.
Whether you’re stepping onto the stage for the first time or you’re a seasoned showgirl looking to refresh your wardrobe, the right outfit transforms your performance from good to absolutely unforgettable.
Think of burlesque as wearable theater where every rhinestone tells a story and every tassel has a purpose. The beauty of burlesque fashion lies in its versatility: you can channel old Hollywood glamour one night and punk-rock cabaret the next.
Ready to build a performance wardrobe that turns heads and steals the spotlight? Let’s talk about the 12 essential burlesque costume ideas that belong in every performer’s closet.
Contents
- 1 The Glittering History of Burlesque Fashion
- 2 12 Show-Stopping Burlesque Outfit Ideas
- 2.1 1. Classic Red Corset & Stockings Set
- 2.2 Daisy Corsets Striped Corset Tops with Straps. Lingerie, Costume,…
- 2.3 Grebrafan Burlesque Renaissance Corset Bustier with Multi Layer l…
- 2.4 Women’s Burlesque Stripe Butterfly Bow Corset Body Shape Bustier …
- 2.5 Women Sexy Lingerie Set Naughty Lace Up Corset Bodysuit Underwire…
- 2.6 2. Gatsby-Inspired Fringe Flapper Dress
- 2.7 Zoctuo Fringe Flapper Dress for Women Cocktail,1920s-Themed Party…
- 2.8 YESSA 1920s Flapper Dresses for Women Great Gatsby Dress Roaring …
- 2.9 PLULON 1920s Dresses for Women, Sequin Fringed Gatsby Flapper Coc…
- 2.10 PLULON Women’s 1920s Gatsby Sequin Fringed Vintage Flapper Dress …
- 2.11 3. Rhinestone-Studded Bodysuit
- 2.12 Full Rhinestone Jumpsuit Sexy Birthday Burlesque Women Leotard Dr…
- 2.13 Gifts for Burlesque Dancers I’d Rather Be Doing Burlesque T-Shirt…
- 2.14 Belly Dancer Costumes for Women Glitter Belly Dance Bra Belly Dan…
- 2.15 ROYAL SMEELA Belly Dance Costume Set for Women Belly Dance Bra an…
- 2.16 4. Velvet Bra & High-Waisted Shorts Combo
- 2.17 5. Feathered Showgirl Wings & Pasties
- 2.18 6. Pinstripe Gangster-Inspired Suit
- 2.19 7. Crystal-Embellished Bra & Tutu Skirt
- 2.20 8. Leopard Print Lingerie Set
- 2.21 9. Victorian Lace Teddy with Garters
- 2.22 10. Sequin Hot Pants & Crop Top Duo
- 2.23 11. Satin Robe & Negligee Combination
- 2.24 12. Mermaid-Inspired Sequin Skirt & Seashell Bra
- 3 Conclusion
- 4 FAQs
- 4.1 What should I wear to my first burlesque performance?
- 4.2 Where can I buy affordable burlesque costumes online?
- 4.3 How do I keep my burlesque costume secure during performances?
- 4.4 What’s the difference between burlesque and cabaret outfits?
- 4.5 Can plus-size performers wear the same burlesque styles?
The Glittering History of Burlesque Fashion
Burlesque fashion emerged in the Victorian era as theatrical satire before evolving into the glamorous striptease art form we recognize today. By the 1920s and 30s, performers like Gypsy Rose Lee transformed burlesque into high art, where vintage burlesque clothing became synonymous with rebellion, sensuality, and showmanship.
The costumes weren’t just revealing—they were meticulously crafted statements that challenged social norms while celebrating the female form. Fast forward to today, and burlesque has experienced a massive revival, with modern performers blending classic silhouettes with contemporary edge.
As the saying goes, “everything old is new again,” and burlesque fashion proves it beautifully. The aesthetic has transcended the stage, influencing everything from festival fashion to everyday lingerie, making burlesque dancer outfits a legitimate style category that celebrates body positivity and theatrical self-expression.
12 Show-Stopping Burlesque Outfit Ideas
Here’s a fun fact: the average burlesque performer owns between 15-30 costume pieces, mixing and matching to create endless combinations.
Think of your burlesque wardrobe like a capsule collection—invest in versatile foundational pieces that you can accessorize differently for each performance. Now let’s get into the looks that’ll make your stage presence absolutely magnetic.
1. Classic Red Corset & Stockings Set
The timeless foundation of any burlesque wardrobe starts here. Picture a crimson satin corset with black lace overlay, paired with Cuban-heeled stockings and a matching garter belt.
This burlesque performance wear screams vintage Hollywood glamour—the kind of outfit that makes audiences hold their breath.
The structured boning cinches your waist while the push-up cups create that classic showgirl silhouette. Add black satin opera gloves and a feather boa for the full effect.
Styling Tip: Size your corset one size down for that dramatic hourglass shape, but make sure you can still breathe comfortably during your routine. Pro move? Layer a sheer robe over it for your entrance, then dramatically shed it mid-performance.
2. Gatsby-Inspired Fringe Flapper Dress
Channel the roaring twenties with a champagne-colored fringe dress that moves with every shimmy and shake. This piece features layers of swinging fringe, art deco beadwork, and a dropped waist that’s pure 1920s authenticity.
The fringe creates mesmerizing movement—absolutely perfect for performances where you want that kinetic energy. Pair it with a feathered headband, long pearl necklaces, and T-strap heels.
Styling Tip: The fringe does the work for you, so keep your movements fluid rather than sharp. If you’re on a budget, thrift a simple slip dress and hot-glue fringe trim yourself—it costs about $30 and takes an afternoon.
3. Rhinestone-Studded Bodysuit
This is your armor for high-energy performances. A black or n_de mesh bodysuit completely covered in rhinestones catches every spotlight in the house. It’s essentially wearable disco ball status—functional, flexible, and absolutely dazzling.
The mesh provides coverage while the strategic rhinestone placement creates the illusion of nakedness. Add rhinestone pasties underneath for extra security and sparkle.
Styling Tip: Invest in good-quality rhinestones that won’t fall off mid-performance (nothing kills the vibe like leaving a glitter trail). For anyone curious about blending vintage glamour with modern festival fashion, check out our 80s outfit ideas for inspiration on maximalist sparkle styling.
4. Velvet Bra & High-Waisted Shorts Combo
Rich emerald green velvet gives this set a luxurious, touchable quality that photographs beautifully. The structured bra features underwire support and is trimmed with gold fringe, while the high-waisted shorts create endless leg while staying secure during floor work.
This burlesque showgirl costume works perfectly for both stage performances and themed parties. Complete the look with gold ankle-strap heels and matching velvet elbow gloves.
Styling Tip: Velvet can be hot under stage lights, so look for cotton-blend velvet rather than polyester. A quick spritz of fabric refresher between shows keeps it looking fresh.
5. Feathered Showgirl Wings & Pasties
Go full Vegas showgirl with massive ostrich feather fan wings in jewel tones like royal blue or fuchsia. These attach to wrist cuffs, allowing you to create stunning silhouettes as you move. Pair them with matching feathered pasties and a G-string covered in coordinating rhinestones.
This is statement-making burlesque performance wear that photographs like a dream and gives you that “I’m the main character” energy.
Styling Tip: Practice with your wings before performance day—they’re heavier than they look and require specific arm strength. Store them flat to prevent feather damage, and never eat messy foods while wearing them (learned that one the hard way).
6. Pinstripe Gangster-Inspired Suit
Flip the script with a masculine-meets-feminine look: a cropped black pinstripe vest (no shirt underneath), matching hot pants, suspenders, and a fedora.
This androgynous approach to burlesque fashion is wickedly fun and allows for playful stripping sequences. Add fishnet tights, oxford heels, and a slim black tie that you can remove with dramatic flair.
Styling Tip: The contrast between masculine tailoring and feminine curves is what makes this work. Keep your makeup bold—think dark lips and strong brows—to maintain that cabaret edge. This style shares DNA with the bold, statement-making aesthetic in our Nashville outfits for women guide.
7. Crystal-Embellished Bra & Tutu Skirt
This combination is pure fantasy—a crystal-covered push-up bra paired with a full tulle tutu in either classic black or playful pink. The bra features hand-sewn crystals in a starburst pattern, while the tutu adds volume and whimsy.
It’s ballet-meets-burlesque, perfect for performances that play with innocence and seduction. Finish with crystal hair clips and ballet-inspired lace-up heels.
Styling Tip: Tutus require a specific silhouette to avoid looking costume-y. Keep your top half sleek and structured, and choose a tutu length that hits mid-thigh for the most flattering proportions.
8. Leopard Print Lingerie Set
Animal instinct meets pin-up perfection in this leopard print underwire bra and matching thong set. The classic print never goes out of style in burlesque circles—it’s s_xy, playful, and instantly recognizable.
Layer it with a sheer leopard robe, add cat-eye makeup, and slip into leopard-print pumps for a cohesive, fierce look that channels your inner jungle cat.
Styling Tip: When wearing bold prints, keep accessories minimal—let the pattern do the talking. A sleek high ponytail or vintage victory rolls complement this look without competing with it.
9. Victorian Lace Teddy with Garters
For a darker, gothic-romance vibe, reach for a black Victorian-inspired lace teddy with high neckline, long sleeves, and cheeky cut bottom. The intricate lace creates beautiful patterns against skin, while attached garter straps hold up thigh-high stockings.
This burlesque costume idea works beautifully for moody, theatrical numbers. Add a cameo choker and Victorian-style ankle boots.
Styling Tip: This style runs delicate, so hand-wash only and store flat to prevent snags. The high neckline creates interesting striptease opportunities—sometimes covering more makes the reveal more impactful.
10. Sequin Hot Pants & Crop Top Duo
Pure disco energy radiates from this holographic sequin hot pants and matching crop top combination. Every movement creates a ripple of color—pink, blue, gold, and silver all shifting as you move.
This modern take on burlesque showgirl costumes feels fresh and festival-ready. Style it with clear platform heels, body glitter, and a high ponytail with hair tinsel woven through.
Styling Tip: Sequins can scratch delicate skin, so wear body adhesive tape on any areas where edges might rub. The holographic effect looks absolutely insane under UV lighting if your venue has blacklights.
Speaking of high-energy performance fashion, our K-pop outfit ideas feature similar sequin and holographic styling techniques.
11. Satin Robe & Negligee Combination
Sometimes the tease is everything. A silk charmeuse robe in champagne or blush pink worn over a matching lace negligee creates that old Hollywood boudoir aesthetic. The robe removal becomes part of your performance, revealing the delicate negligee underneath.
This softer, more romantic approach to burlesque fashion emphasizes elegance over overt sexuality. Complete with marabou feather slippers and a vintage-inspired sleep mask pushed up into your hair.
Styling Tip: Real silk is investment-worthy here—it photographs better and drapes beautifully. Practice your robe removal in rehearsal; there’s an art to making it look effortless rather than awkward.
12. Mermaid-Inspired Sequin Skirt & Seashell Bra
Take your audience under the sea with an iridescent sequin mermaid skirt that creates that iconic tail silhouette, paired with a structured seashell bra covered in pearls and crystals.
This fantasy-themed burlesque performance wear is theatrical perfection for themed shows or anyone wanting to stand out from traditional looks. Add a starfish hair clip, pearl jewelry, and aqua-colored makeup for the full mythical effect.
Styling Tip: Mermaid skirts restrict leg movement, so choreograph accordingly—this is better for poses and upper body work than high kicks.
Conclusion
There you have it—twelve absolutely gorgeous burlesque outfit ideas that’ll take your performance wardrobe from basic to breathtaking. Whether you’re drawn to classic vintage glamour or modern sparkle-fest vibes, the key is choosing pieces that make you feel powerful, se_y, and completely yourself on stage.
Mix these foundational looks, add your personal flair, and remember: confidence is your best accessory. Pin your favorites, start building your dream wardrobe, and get ready to absolutely own that spotlight!
FAQs
What should I wear to my first burlesque performance?
Start with a classic red corset and stockings set—it’s timeless, flattering on all body types, and gives you the confidence of wearing an iconic burlesque look that’s stood the test of time.
Where can I buy affordable burlesque costumes online?
Check Amazon, Yandy, and Frederick’s of Hollywood for budget-friendly options, or browse Etsy for handmade custom pieces. Thrift stores are goldmines for base pieces you can embellish yourself.
How do I keep my burlesque costume secure during performances?
Use fashion tape for cleavage and costume edges, toupee tape for pasties, and always do a full dress rehearsal with every movement you’ll perform to identify any wardrobe malfunction risks beforehand.
What’s the difference between burlesque and cabaret outfits?
Burlesque costumes are specifically designed for striptease and reveal, with removable layers and strategic coverage, while cabaret outfits are complete performance looks without the expectation of removal.
Can plus-size performers wear the same burlesque styles?
Absolutely—burlesque celebrates all body types, and every style mentioned works beautifully across all sizes. Look for retailers specializing in extended sizing like Hips & Curves or commission custom pieces from plus-size-friendly designers.
