The Costumes of Burlesque: 1866-2018 from Focal Press is the first volume to inclusively document burlesque costume from its birth in the 1860s through the global burlesque movement in 2018. This lushly illustrated book presents the history and development of this American art form by documenting the origins, influencers, and genuine articles that created its aesthetic. Showcases of legendary performers, including Lydia Thompson, Gypsy Rose Lee, Sally Rand, Bettie Page, Kitten Natividad, and Dita Von Teese demonstrate costume styles through the years.
This guide gives readers a clear view of how burlesque costume looked and why. It teaches collectors, burlesque performers, and fans alike to recognize vintage pieces for what they are and to design their own costumes with inspiration from the originals. By including detailed costume documentation, over 400 images, and interviews with prominent costume designers such as Catherine D'Lish and Garo Sparo, The Costumes of Burlesque brings 150 years of burlesque costume history to life.
- Foreword by Leslie Zemeckis
- Introduction
- 1- The Birth of Burlesque 1868-19teens
- 2- Flappers and Film Stars 1920s-1930s
- 3- "The Golden Age" 1940s-1950s
- 4- The Death of Burlesque 1960s-1970s
- 5- The Strip Club meets Neo Burlesque 1980s-2001
- 6- Modern Burlesque Costume Design -
- Epilogue