Thread: Burlesque on a Student Budget?

Hi!
I am new to the wonderful world of Burlesque, and decided that I really should come out of lurking and finally post something (its just ever so daunting, where should one start?). So this is me; diving in.
I'm a stereotypical student and am more or less penniless, and I study and live in York (but its not too far from Leeds and Manchester, I suppose, so going to workshops there isn't a problem). My issue is just how do I gather supplies on a student budget? Is it even possible?
My main concern is acquiring a corset, I'm probably willing to spend £100 at the most (I know what you're all thinking, I'm so cheap), but frankly, I just can't afford to spend more.

So, all I'm really asking is does any one have any hints or tips? Or knows where I can get a corset for a vaguely reasonable price?

Thank you

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hi .... honestly no you don't sound cheep as you put it..... being a student is hard.

I jsut got a full steel boned corset on e-bay for £40 not a big name 'corset boulevard' and I am no expert but it fits nicely, seems to be well finished etc. so I'm happy... otherwise have a look for things like fairy gothmother on line sales.

I'm sure the other ladies will be able to give you loads more info than I can as I am a real newbie (2nd week in MoB and going to my 3rd show ever tonight).
But welcome.

Hi honey and welcome to MoB - be warned this site is deliciously addictive!

I too would recommend ebay as a starting place for burlesque supplies. Just read descriptions VERY carefully and check sellers feedback. Only bid up to what you can afford. If you are a student you may be able to bag some real bargains on ebay as auctions that end in the day (when most of us are at work!) usually end cheaper than auctions that close in the evening!

kisses
PixieParasol

p.s. It isn't just students who are skint these days - there's a credit crunch on dontchaknow!!!!!!!

Hello there!

The most obvious way around it would be to make your costumes yourself. Do you sew? If not, do you have time and the inclination to learn?

Other than that, I'd have thought the best way for you to get costumes and corsets would be to find a designer that would be willing to loan you stuff in return for PR (pro-photos etc). Speaking as a professional corsetiere, I can't imagine that you're going to get a good corset within your budget - I know people do buy cheaper ones but really, you get what you pay for. Of course, you may be able to pick up a decent second-hand one; I'm sure I've seen a few posts here recently where people are offering some of theirs.

Of course, half of burly is illusion, so why not take something that costs little and embellish it with rhinestones? It's amazing the difference a few sparklies can make to a bra! Above all though, my advice would be that whatever you do, always make it look as though it cost a million dollars. Always get the best you can afford and don't compromise your standards. You want your audience to gasp in awe, not whisper to each other that your bra and knicks came from Primark (even if they did!)!!

Good luck - do feel free to PM me if you need any help with anything.

Hi honey
maybe you don't need a corset for your first act. It took me years to buy a good one and it was worth the wait. Also I did not actually wear one in any of my acts till recently and even now they are under bust and don't come off. What I am trying to say is burlesque is an art form and about imagination so if you make yourself a good costume and routine it does not have to have cost a fortune.
One of my most popular booked acts is called 'Evolution of Woman' 95% of the costume was made from an old coat that I loved. the most expensive part of it is a tiger rug I wear on my head that I got of ebay for £30. The whole costume cost me less then a £100 and I have well made it back on the number of bookings I have had for it.
I come form the DIY school of art and truly believe if you make your own costumes they stand out as no one else will have them.
Good luck
Diva x

Well said, Diva - I couldn't agree more!

I buy my bras and knickers in a multi-pack from tesco and cover them in sequins, beads and sparkly fabric!

Originally Posted by Miss Dani California

I buy my bras and knickers in a multi-pack from tesco and cover them in sequins, beads and sparkly fabric!

I rest my case!

How are things today Dani? Better I hope. :kiss:
Have you played with your bejeweller yet?

Hi lovely - yes I'm better today - freaking out a bit about silk stocking tonight as part of my costume has decided to "malfunction" but I'm just going to use glue and tape and possibley a nail-gun to keep everything in place and hope for the best!

And no - not had time to play with sparkles yet but hopefully I'll have time this week as I want to cover my ribbons and poi in sparkles

i am a student too and im currently saving up for my first corset, i think i would rather wait a couple of extra months and get something that is really well made and gorgeous! you could maybe be really cheeky and ask your family to club together and buy you one for christmas? when i get my next student loan payment im going to buy some cheap underwear sets and customise them, should be a fun way to pass the time and im not even a performer im just doing it cos i think it will be fun prancing around in glitzy knick knacks lol! saddo that i am ops: