Why Wigs Are a Burlesque Essential
A wig can transform your entire character in seconds. In burlesque, where persona is everything, the right wig signals your character before you've made a single move. It also gives you creative freedom — you can be a platinum blonde bombshell one night and a raven-haired vamp the next, without touching your natural hair.
Choosing the Right Wig Style for Your Character
- Classic / Vintage Burlesque: Victory rolls, pin curls, finger waves, and structured updos. Deep reds, platinum blondes, and jet blacks are classic color choices.
- Glamour / Showgirl: Long, voluminous waves or sleek Hollywood curls. Big hair reads well from a distance and under stage lighting.
- Gothic / Dark Burlesque: Deep blacks, dark purples, or dramatic ombre styles.
- Neo-Burlesque: Anything goes. Bright colors, fantasy styles, avant-garde cuts.
- Cabaret: Short bobs, finger waves, and sleek styles that evoke 1920s–1930s Weimar-era glamour.
Shop Burlesque Glam Wigs
Synthetic vs. Human Hair Wigs
| Feature | Synthetic | Human Hair |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $20–$150 | $150–$500+ |
| Style retention | Holds style well | Requires restyling |
| Heat styling | Limited (heat-resistant only) | Full heat styling |
| Best for | Beginners, specific characters | Versatile, long-term use |
How to Secure a Wig for Performance
- Wear a wig cap: Flattens your natural hair and gives the wig grip.
- Use wig clips or combs: Most performance wigs have built-in clips.
- Bobby pins: Pin through the wig and cap into your natural hair at the temples and nape.
- Wig grip band: A velvet or silicone band worn under the wig prevents slipping without pins.
- Got2b Glued spray: For maximum hold, lightly spray the hairline area of the wig cap before placing the wig.
Performing with a Wig: What to Know
- Always do a full run-through of your act wearing the wig before performing
- Test any head movements, flips, or dramatic gestures that could dislodge it
- Keep a small emergency kit backstage: bobby pins, wig grip spray, and a comb
Shop This Guide
More from Performance Academy
