Burlesque

As an extra project outside of uni, myself and group of girls from the course are involved in creating costumes for a local burlesque company in Bournemouth. A few weeks ago we met with the organiser/ choreographer to talk through initial themes and what garments are needed.


The main theme for all the garments is 'Candy' taking inspiration from the Katy Perry music video california girls. Six sets are to be light pastel pink with candy decoration of sequins and subtle sweet shapes. Although these sets are to be similar, there is a variety of full corsets, under-bust corsets and all-in-one corsets to avoid a uniform look. Then in contrast to this there are two toxic candy sets which will be emerald green with dark sequins and decoration. As a group we needed to research images and think realistically what we can produce in the time frame we have.


Working with another girl on the course who studies the design pathway, she produced some initial design sketches for the group. On Tuesday this week a few of us arranged to go to the choreographers flat to meet the girls and take all the necessary measurements. It also gave us an opportunity to present the initial designs and talk through any more ideas she had for the garments. After this we then had a clearer idea of what was needed and the overall look they wanted. As she really liked the designs, the next step is to send across the remaining sketches as once they are all approved we can begin pattern drafting and the construction process. 


In the meantime we can start collecting fabric samples, and using each others corsetry knowledge to discuss how we will make all the sets. Hopefully we will have final designs and final fabrics sorted so that after the easter break we can begin construction.