History of Burlesque Lingerie

Burlesque dates back to the Victorian Era, when the sight of a woman's stockinged ankle was nothing short of a minor scandal.  Burlesque was a tantalizing new form of middle-class entertainment that challenged social norms. Beautiful young girls ruled the stage in extravagant lingerie and stockings, much to the enjoyment of those watching.

Burlesque has been reinvented many times to reflect changing times and audiences.  We see burlesque's influence in 1940s pin-up models and when we look at modern icons like Madonna and Lady Gaga.  Perhaps it's the always exciting act of the tease that's kept burlesque alive throughout the ages. 

Though the art form has evolved over time, burlesque costumes have always been designed to highlight and enhance the female form.  It's no surprise that the base of nearly every burlesque costume is a corset.  Dating back to the mid-16th century, the corset was, and remains to be, the "go to" garment for women looking to accentuate and create sexy curves. Corsets look great onstage or off and flatter nearly every body type.

While a well-executed striptease can make the imagination run wild, it is sometimes what a performer leaves on that is sexiest of all.  The first burlesque dancers wore tights to give the illusion of a woman’s almost bare leg.  Today, women's hosiery carries a similar connotation and styles like thigh-high stockings and fishnet pantyhose are popular with burlesque dancers.  Going along with the idea of leaving something to the imagination, long silk gloves were traditionally worn in burlesque and were slowly peeled off during a performance.

Today, burlesque performers have many choices when it comes to costuming.  Some more modern styles that are popular include frilly panties, busters, and skirts in flattering colors and appealing fabrics such as satin and lace.  Like their predecessors, modern burlesque performers use accessories as a tool to seduce their audience with each item removed.  Popular choices include hats, garters, legwear, and gloves.  

Whether you're going for a classic pin-up look or a modern burlesque style, Kuhmillion offers a wide range of lingerie, hosiery and accessories for you to choose from. Look around and feel free to ask any questions. We're here to help.