How Cabaret Looks Have Inspired Fashion Today

Quick History of Cabaret

Cabarets appeared in Paris in the late 15th century as an alternative to taverns, and were frequently used as meeting places for writers, actors, bohemians, and artists. The audience was typically seated while dining and drinking, watching the theatrical entertainment featuring music, song, dance, or drama.
You may be familiar with what is considered one of the most famous cabarets, The Moulin Rouge, which was opened in 1889.
 But cabarets weren’t confined to France and could be found in many other countries such as Germany, Poland, Britain, and the United States.
Now, if you are to see a cabaret advertised in the United States, it’s likely referring to striptease, burlesque, drag shows, or a venue that offers that kind of entertainment.

Cabaret Fashion

Cabaret style is known for fringe, sequins, furs, boas, feathers, heels, hats, fishnets, nylons, lace, jewels, and lingerie.
Essentially, any styles that were considered feminine, sexy, and flashy would be worn by cabaret performers throughout history. 

Cabaret Fashion Through The Decades

1920s

The 1920s was one of the most popular eras for cabaret fashion. In fact, it was so prolific that it has influenced every decade since, from what we wear to movies to modern showgirls.
The 1920s brought shorter hemlines, plunging necklines, and low backs which were quite revealing for the time. Of course, the burlesque stars wore much more revealing costumes on stage.
Gypsy Rose Lee wearing a polka dot fishnet bodysuit and a train of tulle ruffles.
Josephine Baker wearing a fur stole and a beaded net top.

1930s

In the 1930s, burlesque became more about striptease than the satire and comedy it once was known for.

The glitter, sequins, sparkles, and feathers of the burlesque shows were as glamorous as you could get.

Marlene Dietrich, a famous actress, singer, and cabaret artist, wore masculine three-piece suits. Her androgynous look revolutionized women's fashion, helping popularize women's pants.

1950s

Burlesque had gone quiet during the Second World War, but it came back with a vengeance in the 1950s.

Rather than the glitzy costumes of the past, the cabaret style of the 1950s was largely focused on lingerie. 

 Tempest Storm wearing jewelry, thigh-high stockings, and lingerie.

Bettie Page, well known for her pinup style, wearing matching lingerie, thigh-high stockings, and heels.

1970s

Liza Minnelli starred in the 1972 film Cabaret, and gave a new look to cabaret fashion. 
She wore a halter vest, short-shorts, garters, and lace-up boots. The look was so iconic that people still recreate the look for costumes to this day.
Cher made waves in the world of fashion during this time. She often wore sequins, fringe, and revealing styles both on stage and off.

 

The Influence On Naughty Girl

Cabaret style has influenced both my personal style and the style of Naughty Girl. 
You only need to take a quick look around the site to find fringe, sequins, lingerie, netted fabrics, and more cabaret-inspired fashions.
My personal style is no different as I only choose items for Naughty Girl that I would wear myself. Here, you'll see me wearing sparkles, sheer fabrics, feather boas, and glamorous jewelry. 

A Look At Naughty Girl Styles


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