How To Wear Burlesque Pasties And Tassels Like A Pro

If you want to add glamour, tease, and movement to your burlesque performance, burlesque pasties and tassels are essential accessories. When worn correctly, they elevate your costume, enhance your confidence, and create eye-catching moments on stage.

In this guide, we will walk you through how to choose, apply, and care for burlesque pasties and tassels so you can perform with confidence and style.

Choosing the Right Pasties and Tassels for Your Act

Selecting the right burlesque pasties and tassels is an important part of creating your stage persona. Your accessories should complement your costume, performance theme, and personal style.

Pasties come in many designs, including lace, satin, sequins, and metallic finishes. Popular shapes include hearts, stars, and classic circles. Choose a style that matches the mood of your routine and offers the level of coverage you feel comfortable with.

Tassels add movement and drama to your performance. Long tassels create flowing, hypnotic motion, while shorter tassels offer playful and energetic spins. Colour and material also affect how they appear under stage lighting, so consider how they will catch the eye as you move.

Comfort and security are key. Well-fitted pasties and securely attached tassels allow you to focus on your performance rather than worrying about your costume.

Preparing Your Skin for Application

Preparing your skin properly helps ensure your pasties stay in place throughout your performance. Start by cleansing the area with a gentle, oil free cleanser to remove any residue that could affect adhesion.

Dry the skin completely before application. Avoid using moisturisers, body oils, or lotions on the area, as these can weaken the adhesive. If you have sensitive skin, applying a light skin barrier product can help reduce irritation.

Clean, dry skin provides the best surface for a secure and long-lasting hold.

Choosing the Right Adhesive for Burlesque Pasties

The adhesive you choose plays a vital role in keeping your pasties and tassels secure. Many performers use double-sided fashion tape for light to moderate movement. It is easy to apply and remove while offering reliable hold.

For more energetic performances or longer wear, a professional body adhesive may be a better option. These adhesives are designed specifically for stage use and can withstand sweat and movement.

Always perform a patch test before using a new adhesive to ensure it is suitable for your skin.

Step by Step Guide to Applying Burlesque Pasties

Begin by laying your pasties adhesive side up. Remove the backing carefully to expose the adhesive. Take a moment to position them correctly, aiming for symmetry and your desired coverage.

Place each pastie over the nipple and press firmly from the centre outward, smoothing the edges to prevent lifting. Hold in place for a few seconds to allow the adhesive to bond.

If your pasties include tassels, check that they hang evenly before moving on. Allow the adhesive to set fully before dressing or practising your routine.

Adding and Securing Tassels for Maximum Effect

Tassels are what bring burlesque pasties to life. If your pasties include a central loop, thread the tassel securely through it. If not, a small amount of body adhesive can be used to attach the tassel safely.

Once attached, practise moving and spinning your tassels in front of a mirror. This helps you understand how they respond to different movements and allows you to adjust placement or length if needed.

Well-secured tassels should move freely without pulling or detaching, adding playful energy and visual impact to your performance.

Caring for Your Burlesque Pasties and Tassels

Proper care helps extend the life of your burlesque accessories. After your performance, gently remove the pasties. If needed, use an adhesive remover to protect your skin and the accessory.

Clean any adhesive residue using warm soapy water or a gentle remover. Pat dry and allow pasties to air dry completely on a flat surface.

Tassels can be gently combed to remove tangles. Store your pasties and tassels flat in a breathable pouch, away from heat and direct sunlight, to keep them performance-ready.

Tips for Confident Burlesque Performances

Confidence comes from preparation. Practise your routine while wearing your pasties and tassels so you feel comfortable with how they move. Explore poses and choreography that highlight their movement and enhance your stage presence.

Most importantly, embrace your persona and enjoy the performance. Burlesque is about confidence, playfulness, and self-expression. When you feel secure in your costume, you are free to captivate your audience with every tease and twirl.