Masterclass:
The History of Fashion for Burlesque Costuming with Maple Rose
3pm - 6pm
Step back in time with The History of Fashion for Burlesque Costuming — a deep dive into the eras, silhouettes, and style icons that have shaped the glamorous world of the burlesque wardrobe. This 3-hour workshop traces the evolution of fashion from ancient decadence to modern-day stage glamour, with a focus on how historical fashion continues to inspire the extravagant costuming of burlesque.
We’ll journey through time, beginning with the draped drama of the Antique world, the revolutionary opulence of the Renaissance, the lavish ornamentation of the Baroque era and then follow fashion’s evolution through the corseted silhouettes of the Victorian age, the rebellious energy of the 1920s, the high-glam of mid-century showgirls, and into the bold, boundary-pushing looks of contemporary neo-burlesque.
Through a mix of lecture, visuals, group discussion, and Q&A, we’ll examine how each era’s fashion has influenced the theatricality, sensuality, and craftsmanship of burlesque costuming. Perfect for performers, designers, and costume-curious creatives, this workshop offers both rich historical context and inspiration for building show-stopping looks.
What You’ll Learn:
Fashion highlights from Antique through modern eras
How historical styles inform burlesque aesthetics
The evolution of materials, silhouettes, and stagewear
Tips on channeling historical inspiration into your own costume designs
What To Bring
Pen and paper
Your phone, iPad or laptop for research purposes
Any colour markers/pencils you want!
