10+ Tantalizing Outfits to Wear to Burlesque Class

By Liz Flynn Jun 10, 2023

If you’ve ever thought about taking a burlesque class, there’s no better time than the present.

Burlesque is a vibrant and inclusive art form that embraces diversity, self-expression, and body positivity. Although this fun-loving performance style is all about empowerment and community, dipping your toe into the world of burlesque can feel quite intimidating.

Have no fear because we’re here to help.

Dressing for a burlesque class is all about feeling comfortable and confident. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a curious beginner, we're here to guide you in selecting the perfect attire for your upcoming class.

Here is the ultimate guide for what to wear to your next burlesque class. Get ready to embrace the spotlight and feel glamorous and empowered in these outfits.

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Stretchy Leggings

Leggings are perfect for newcomers to burlesque. They’re flexible, comfortable, and provide full coverage for those who may feel self-conscious or nervous.

High-waisted leggings work best for burlesque class because there’s usually a lot of bending over and dancing involved. Choose a pair that fits comfortably but snugly so that you feel secure and everything stays in place.

Check out our selection of the best sustainable leggings.

A Sports Bra

A sports bra helps you feel supported and secure when attending burlesque class. It also provides more coverage if that is a concern.

Wear a sports bra under your most comfortable t-shirt, or just wear it alone with some leggings for a sleek and sexy look. Whatever style you choose, make sure the bra fits securely but not too tight.

Explore our recommendations for the best sustainable sports bras that provide high-quality support.

Comfy Shirts

You’re bound to work up a sweat during class, so a comfy shirt is a great option. Whether it’s a tighter-fitting tank top or a baggy shirt, make sure you can move around easily.

Go with a moisture-wicking workout shirt for a put-together, intentional look, or throw on your favorite pajama shirt if you don’t feel confident showing off too much yet. Anything goes, from vintage graphic tees to recycled polyester designer duds.

Shop our selection of the best American-made t-shirts.

Workout Shorts

Workout shorts are a must-have for burlesque class. While some prefer wearing long leggings, shorts are beneficial because you can get used to dancing and performing with bare legs.

Workout shorts made with moisture-wicking, sustainable fabric are best. You can also wear vintage-inspired, high-waisted gym shorts or low-waisted bike shorts. It all depends on what feels best on your body while twirling and kicking your legs up in the air.

Check out our favorite women’s workout shorts that are cute, comfortable, and affordable.

Stockings

Stockings are often the most scintillating part of a burlesque routine. Once you start memorizing your striptease routine, wear some stockings to class.

Wearing stockings during practice helps you feel sexy and confident while mastering your performance. Plenty of high-quality, sustainable stockings easily add spice to your wardrobe and burlesque routine.

Don’t miss our guide to the best eco-friendly hosiery brands to find the perfect pair of stockings.

A Leotard

A leotard is one of the comfiest and easiest items to wear to burlesque class. This one-piece dancewear staple gives you freedom of movement with just the right amount of coverage.

A high-quality leotard uses stretchy fabric that still provides chest support and compression in all the right places. Plus, they come in various styles, from chic neutrals to fun patterns.

Take a look at our selection of beautiful leotards to find the perfect one for class.

A Back-Fastening Bra

As you progress in learning your burlesque routine, you may want to up the ante when getting dressed for class. Many people like to wear a back-fastening bra when practicing their routines to get a feel for their striptease.

You can wear any of your regular bras but don’t hesitate to treat yourself to a special one specifically for class. Don’t shy away from bras with glitter, lace, and satin. Wearing a more sultry back-fastening bra can help you get in the mood when practicing.

From lacy demi cups to practical cotton bralettes, explore our selection of the best sustainable bras that won’t break the bank.

Flexible Dance Shoes

Many burlesque performers recommend wearing flexible dance shoes to burlesque class, especially if you’re a beginner.

Flexible dance shoes include split soles or jazz shoes. Some people even choose to go barefoot during class for better freedom of movement.

Tennis shoes and other workout sneakers are not recommended for burlesque classes. These styles are not flexible and can make dancing more challenging.

Lingerie

Your final burlesque routine will involve a sexy lingerie get-up, so why not wear it to class? Many students love to wear their lingerie costume to class the closer they get to their final performance.

The great thing about burlesque is that you can style your lingerie look however you want. The world of lingerie is your oyster, from skimpy thongs to lacy demi cups, push-up bras to full-coverage corsets.

The main objective is to have fun styling a lingerie look that makes you feel beautiful, fierce, and sexy.

If you’re searching for a new matching set or lacy get-up, peek at our selection of the best sustainable lingerie brands.

Elegant Gloves

Elbow-length gloves are often the centerpiece of any scintillating burlesque routine. If your routine involves gloves, wear them to class and incorporate them into your practice.

Burlesque performers wear everything from classic black or white to sheer or jewel-tone gloves. Pick a high-quality and sustainably made pair because they can go through a lot of wear and tear as you take them off during class.

For a sustainably sexy look, check out this selection of vegan leather gloves.

Kitten Heels

Once you have your burlesque routine down, try wearing heels to class. Wearing the same heels you plan to wear on stage will help you develop balance and perfect your performance.

Burlesque dancers tend to wear kitten heels with ankle straps and a chunky heel. This heel style still looks sexy but provides more support than slip-on pumps. Stilettos are not recommended for beginners simply because dancing in them can be more difficult.

Reduce your environmental footprint by shopping our favorite sustainably-made heels.

Focus on Stretchy, Body-Hugging Fabric

Burlesque classes involve a lot of movement, so body-hugging fabric is best. Choose workout gear made with sustainable and stretchy material for ultimate comfort and range of motion.

Bike shorts, leggings, and sports bras are excellent options. Nowadays, workout clothes come in a huge range of colors and patterns, so have fun expressing yourself with a look that’s totally “you.”

Explore our selection of the best plus-size workout clothes guaranteed to make you feel comfortable and confident in class.

Feel Comfortable and Confident

The art of burlesque is all about feeling confident and beautiful in your own body.

No matter your size, background, or level of dance experience, burlesque class is a safe space to explore your sexuality and cultivate confidence.

It’s normal to feel nervous or hesitant about attending your first class. So choosing the perfect outfit is a great way to gear up for an experience that’s guaranteed to be fun, freeing, and fabulous. Have fun!

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About the Author: Liz Flynn

Liz Flynn is a freelance writer, fiber artist, and amateur art historian. She is passionate about making sustainable, ethical fashion accessible to everyone. In her spare time, Liz can be found crocheting, reading, hiking, or hanging out with her beloved dog, Atwood. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Art History and Education from UC Riverside.