With tassles, feathers, and plenty of va va voom, burlesque entertainers from Gypsy Rose Lee to Dita Von Teese have captivated audiences with their artistic shimmying. Maybe you don't have plans to hit the stage anytime soon but here are some fun ways to add a dash of burlesque to your day.
See the Movie: Starring Cher and Christina Aguilera, Burlesque doesn't open until Thanksgiving Day but the film is already generating big buzz. I love a lavish Hollywood musical and this film is bound to have some great tunes and dance numbers. And, it's been way too long since we've seen Cher on the silver screen - she's always been a bit burlesque!
To learn more about burlesque pioneer Gypsy Rose Lee (pictured above), rent the 1962 film Gypsy starring Natalie Wood and Rosalind Russell.
Take a Class: Want to learn the basics of burlesque from glove peeling to chair dancing? Enroll in a course at The New York School of Burlesque, Miss Indigo Blue's Academy of Burlesque in Seattle, Ginger Valentine's Burlesque Charm School in Dallas, or Studio L'Amour in Chicago. Also, many dance studios across the country offer burlesque classes.
Buy the Book: Written by Jo Weldon, founder of the New York Burlesque Academy, The Burlesque Handbook has info on basic moves, costume selection, and even making pasties!
Get the Look: Fishnet stockings and red lipstick are simple ways to add a sexy burlesque touch to your everyday look. Find these versatile goodies at any drugstore or department store. I'm a big fan of HUE fishnets - they seem to last longer than other brands I've tried.
Pump up your manicure with an OPI nail lacquer inspired by the film Burlesque. The 12 attention getting colors include Show It & Glow It, Take the Stage and Bring on the Bling ($8.50 each and available at Amazon).
Play up your peepers with a fringe of faux lashes - try the Japonesque Complete Lash Kit ($9.80 at Amazon).