Miss Kittie Bongo undressed

We caught up with aspiring burlesque performer, model and all round entertainer Miss Kittie Bongo for a chat about her budding burlesque career.

So Miss Kittie Bongo, what was it that sparked your passion for burlesque?

I have always been fascinated by the world of burlesque but it wasn’t until 2006, when I watched reality TV show ‘Faking it’, that I fancied giving it a go.

The star of the show was ‘Scarlet Fever’; the genuine ‘faker’ on the Channel 4 hit show. It was simply a case of, ‘if she can do it, so can I’.

Unfortunately, I didn't get an opportunity to try burlesque until the following year when a friend of mine asked me if I wanted to join him on stage, to Compère, some burlesque nights for him. I was thrilled, and jumped at the chance.It was to be a while before I got another taste of burlesque though, because life quite simply, got in the way for a while.

After a whirlwind year, two house moves, a baby and a wedding later, in 2009 I decided it was time to start performing! Ana Kissed, the cheeky cheesecake burlesque gal gave me a ‘newbie’ space at The Kiss Kiss Show and I haven’t looked back since!

You go girl! I see you’re obviously into fashion, who would you say inspires your style both on and off stage?

I’m customizing crazy! I love making my own clothes, and if I buy something I always make sure I make it my own. I’m prone to adding a few sequins here and there, and the odd feathers and embellishments. Can you imagine turning up to a show or a party and someone else is wearing the same outfit as you?!

Do you choose your own stage outfits?

Ab-so-lutley!! I could never let anyone choose my own costumes; I don’t know how those celebs do it! I even make all my own costumes because I know what I like and what suits me the best.

Do you have any secret fashion tips for our readers?

Customize, customize, customize!

Last but not least, a girl can never have too many pairs of shoes, so how many do you own?

(After a quick peek in the closet) I have about 20 pairs of shoes, my absolute favourite are my leopard print, a girl can never have too much animal print- you said it kitty!! It’s also fair to say that I cannot live without my stiletto ‘stripper shoes’ oo-er!!

Valentines Day Fashion 2010

With Valentine’s Day just under a month away, we think it’s high time you thought about your outfit for the big day. Whatever your shape or size, you can always make the most of what you have.

Firstly, great masterpieces are built on great foundations. Choosing the correct underwear is crucial to your look. Ever seen a woman in a beautiful dress, but with a horrible, grey saggy bra underneath? It’s doubtful and there’s a reason for that. The wrong type of undies can ruin an entire outfit. Just a mere peek of a bra strap can destroy your look. Similarly, a visible panty line (VPL) is also a fashion catastrophe.

Instead, make sure you choose a supportive, uplifting bra with straps that are kept under wraps. It will also ensure that you stay that way, all night long.

With so many options available there’s really no excuse for having your straps on show! Go for a strapless bra or a strapless halter neck bra if you really can’t do without the support.

Or, if your dress has a plunging back try the adhesive stick on bra. Next, choose some (seamless) sexy knickers. Alternatively, if you feel the need, you can slip on a pair of secret slimming knickers, Bridget Jones style. Just stash a saucy pair in your handbag for later.

Why not try some sheer tights, or perhaps a pair of patterned fishnets to glam up your look. They’ll give you that super sophisticated feel.

Always remember to keep the rest of your outfit simple. Valentine’s Day is not about fashion overkill. Step into a pair of killer heels,which will give you a cute wiggle as you walk. The little black dress is a perfect choice, especially if your man is planning a romantic surprise. The LBD works for almost any occasion and can be taken just about everywhere. You could work some 40’s Audrey Hepburn magic into your outfit by slipping on some elbow length gloves and accessorising with classic pearl jewellery. An elegant black clutch bag is the finishing touch to your valentines outfit.

burlesque fashion: Why the world’s going mad for burlesque fashion

Women, it’s time to celebrate! No longer is it fashionable to be a size zero! The fuller figure is back in fashion and what better examples than the likes of pin up girl, Kelly Brook and fellow Brits Kate Winslet, and Mel B. Fighting the American corner is the voluptuous beauty that is Katie Perry.

What better way to celebrate your curves, than to flaunt them in your sexiest underwear, on a night out! No, we’re not going mad; we’re talking about burlesque fashion so breathe in tight girls and pull in that corset. Boned corsets work to pull in your waist, giving you an amazing hourglass figure.

Go for glamorous designs, decorative lace, feathers, diamante, ribbons and bows, because they are really in fashion on the burlesque scene right now! Ruching, ruffles, glitter and tassels are also in high demand. Finish your look with a gorgeous pair of knickers and don’t be shy, show them off for all to see.

Lacy ruffles and ribbon bows are particularly cute. If you want to swing those hips, pants with glittering tassels are great. Anybody who is looking to seriously seduce, needn’t look any further than sophisticated sheer black, or red lace knickers, as they are a great alternative.

Don’t forget a sexy pair of matching suspenders, for maximum sex appeal. Or, if you’re opting for a more demure look, sheer stockings with a visible seam up the back, provide a sexy vintage style without being too daring.

Accessories are key

Now you’re ready to accessorise. Fascinators are everywhere at the moment and they add an element of stunning detail to any outfit. There’s a fascinator for everyone, whether you choose to keep it simple or more exuberant and luxurious.

Again, feathers, bows, glitter, sequins and print are all good options. Choose one with a netted veil for a big night our or simply opt for a decorative hair band to glam up casual daytime wear.

The right pair of shoes are a must have, to achieve your burlesque look. The higher, the better. Make sure no detail is spared when it comes to glamour and remember, a sexy high heel gives you the illusion of longer, luscious legs.

Strut your stuff, in a variety of styles, from tie ups to Mary Jane styles.

Our suggestion is to go for the fluffy mule, perfect for teasing your admirers. Remember a kittenish wink, and smile to rival queen of the scene, Miss Dita Von Teese.

Monochrome Magic: LA fashion

In true LA fashion, the celebs turned out in style for the People’s Choice Awards in LA last week. True to form, the likes of Olivia Wilde and Mary J Blige were amongst the trend setters, stepping out in a monochrome palette. Wilde graced the red carpet in gorgeous 50s elegance, whilst Mary J simply rocked, in her 80s power suit.

The look is set to take spring 2010 by storm. We’ve seen the future and it’s all black and white.

Olivia Wilde looked angelic in a white, one shouldered prom dress with black sash around the waist, finished off with broach detailing. Her gorgeous, sparkling clutch bag was the pièce de résistance.

The House actress made a daring choice and teamed her dress with a statement pair of black sling back platform heels. Though she didn’t pick up any awards on the night, she definitely picks up most stylish celeb. Thumbs up.

Pushing the boundaries

Carrie Underwood picked up ‘favourite country artist’ on the night and she certainly pushed the style boundaries with her choice of outfit.

She wore a white bandeau dress with what looked like a black criss-cross overlay. Sashaying down the red carpet in a black patent pair of bondage style platforms, with straps that extended up the leg and over ankle, she picks up the most original look of the night award.

Every award ceremony has its fair share of divas and this year was no exception. Mariah Carey took to the carpet in a plunging floor length gown, covered in beading and crystals. In true Diva style, Mariah certainly didn’t hold back on the bling as she was assisted onto the stage to pick up the award for ‘favourite R and B artist'.

Although we aren’t ones to judge, many people may be questioning whether it is time for Mariah to find a new look.

Blige Rocked the house!

Mary J Blige rocked the house in her black 80s power suit complete with shoulder pads and killer heels. The woman knows what a good pair of shoes can do for an outfit and had no problem strutting her stuff in magnificent platform sandals with silver detailing!

Lady Gaga High Heels

Lady Gaga, love her or hate her, one thing no one can deny is that the woman knows how to create a visual spectacle. No-other artist has managed to create this level of visual shock since the 80s when the King of Pop burst onto our screens with Thriller. The feel of her latest, infuriatingly catchy electro-pop video ‘Bad Romance’ has even been considered to be a tribute to MJ, through both the zombie-like choreography and outlandish costumes.

Gaga and her backing dancers have a number of costume changes all of which are typical of Gaga’s outrageously futuristic style. Inspired by the masters of glam rock, she’s proud to turn heads and mesmerise spectators with her kooky outfits, all of which are designed by the lady herself. The woman has artistic vision Salvador Dali would be proud of, and her ever changing look can only be rivaled by all time style chameleon, Madonna.

If you watch the video closely, fashionista’s out there may have already spotted the emerging trend that has fashion critics up in arms. A trashy-chic look is emerging, and gradually the high street is catching on. Never before could you parade about in white PVC knee high boots, adorned with buckles and belts without it being assumed that you were a hooker. Now dahling, its fashion ala Gaga. Make sure your boots are accessorised with same shade leather gloves. If white’s too Essex girl for you, try sleek, shiny black.

Throw the style rules out the window and pile the make-up on your poker- face; lashings of mascara, heavy duty eye liner and pale matt lips make this look. Make sure your hair is as straight as can be and backcomb for crazy volume. A heavy blunt fringe completes your Gaga look.

For classier Gaga style strut out in staggeringly, ankle breaking, never seen before platform stilettos if you dare. Gaga loved hers in this vid and was spotted in as many as 5 different pairs. She worked a pair with glass chandelier-type crystals wrapped around as well an amazing pair of crazy, glimmering, silver, crystal studded platform shoe-boots that simply stole the show. Or, to indulge your kinky side, make like Gaga and work a kinky pair of heels wrapped with chains to unleash your naughty side. Finish with futuristic shades to avoid the paparazzi’s glare.

High Heels Guide UK: Your new year’s fashion resolutions

Bored of the same old you and stuck in a fashion rut? Not anymore. New year, new you - out with the old and in with the new. Here’s a roundup of the very best new year’s fashion resolutions, guaranteed to turn heads this year.

1. Go shopping! Though it might be tempting to hit the January sales and buy random items of ill fitting or unflattering clothing because of the price - have restraint!

2. Instead, go shopping with a trusted friend and buy classic, flattering items that compliment and accentuate your body and the rest of your wardrobe. Your friend will see your body differently and may suggest clothing items that you might not have considered. This can help to give your wardrobe an injection of excitement.

3. Clear out the clutter that’s clogging up your wardrobe. The majority of women only wear 20% of their wardrobe, 80% of the time. As a result, you probably have a number of items which you haven’t worn in the last year. Its time to bag them up and do your bit for charity. This will allow you to see exactly what you really have and need, and you may even unearth a few forgotten gems.

4. Have a clothes swap party. If, deep down, you know you’re never going to wear that ra-ra skirt but are too attached to send it off to the local Oxfam, a swapping party is your best bet. Get some girlfriends round, crack open a bottle of wine and get swapping. You may find a new style that suits you, and you’ll have an array of second opinions on hand in your very own living room.

5. Get creative! If you love something, but can never imagine yourself wearing it again, give it a new lease of life with some clever customising. Pick up some sequins, lace, glitter, beads, and ribbon from your local haberdashery and get sticking and stitching. Or take a pair of scissors and get snipping to create a whole new piece of clothing. Look up ideas online for inspiration.

6. Re-organise. Sort all your clothes out and organise them into type so it’s all tidy and easy to find your new clobber. Throw out any ragged and worn shoes, sort the good ones into pairs and put them into boxes; you could even take a photo and stick it to the box.

Sex and the City style: Part 2

Grab yourself a slice of New York chic with part 2 of our style guide dedicated to the lovely Manhatten ladies everyone knows and loves. We’ve covered the fabulous Miss Carrie Bradshaw and perfectly pretty Park Avenue princess Charlotte York, now time to put career girl Miranda Hobbs and party girl Samantha Jones under the spotlight...

Miranda Hobbs

Labelled as the one that fashion forgot, it’s easy to see why Miranda’s character got given this derogatory title. It seems Sex and the City stylist Patricia Fields neglected poor old Miranda and she was left to fend for herself. At the beginning of the cult TV show, Miranda was pigeonholed as a butch, gay career woman with a disregard for luxurious fashion that her friends coveted. She appeared on screen on one occasion in a particularly bad ensemble of baggy, shapeless dungarees and puffy ski coat, while equally uncomplimentary accessories completed her look. On her head was an unattractive blue cap, and on her feet were plain, clumpy white trainers. It can be said that time heals all, and Miranda’s wardrobe is certainly no exception. Over the decade she’s evolved from butch lesbian chic to classic yummy mummy.

Miranda ditched the androgynous power dressing, and instead her look has become a lot softer and feminine. Before, she may have worn an unflattering 80’s style suit to work, later on we see her shirt buttons open and accessorised with quirky, classic jewellery and shoes. Try natural tan court shoes or Mary Janes by day to capture the elegant sprit of yummy-mummy lawyer Miranda. By night, show your wild side in a towering pair of heels with a glitzy, jeweled finish.

Samantha Jones

Samantha has always been the daring one, in love, life and fashion alike. Only Samantha can get away with the outlandishly glamorous outfits she’s worn that always exude self confidence and sex appeal. Her wardrobe’s made up of thigh grazing mini skirts and dresses, low cut tops, blouses and jackets in bright bold colours and prints. She’s definitely not one afraid to stand out from the crowd. If you’re brave enough, opt for bright colours and eye catching fabrics. For the faint hearted, try a splash of colour or print. Leopard print stiletto’s are simply purrrfeeect and inject a perfect dose of exuberant glam to any outfit. Don’t forget your matching bag though darling.

High Heels Animal Magic

Leopard print is a seriously hot look which is set to stay around for the next few seasons. It’s easy to see why a splash of animal print is the perfect way to update your wardrobe, but before you run horrified with visions of Kat Slater and Scary Spice flashing before your eyes, the trick is to keep it chic. There are a few golden rules we can learn when it comes to playing with this fabulously furry trend; keep the rest of your outfit simple and don’t flaunt the flesh.

Think touches of purrrffect prints to become a fabulously stylish sex kitten this season. Try adding a leopard print cropped furry jacket or stylish trench, then accessorise with elegant 40’s style waves in your hair. Complete the look with vixen-esque red lippie teamed with matching nail varnish. It’s a seriously sexy way to vamp up your classic LBD (Little Black Dress) and is the perfect way to take you from work to play in an instant. Remember to keep your jewellery and accessories to a minimum, large hoops and dangly chandelier earrings are a definite no-no to avoid that trashy bar maid look.

Or if you’re feeling just a little feline and foxy, a well placed scarf, a hot pair of heels or a gorgeous tote bag can help transform your look. The must have accessory of the moment that’s had the fashion pack hot on its heels is the leopard print platform stilettos. These seriously funky, chunky heels are very Katy Perry and are a hot look for spring. Wear with a classic trench and jeans for that Hollywood starlet, off-duty look. Complete your look and avoid the paparazzi’s glare with a classic dark pair of shades.

Avoid fashion overkill, aka Miss Paris Hilton, by wearing just one statement leopard print piece. Less is most definitely more when it comes to this spotty, dotty trend. Avoid any cutesy bows or leotards to avoid looking like a life size Pebbles Flintstone. She may be cute, but it certainly doesn’t make the fashion bed-rock. Also, please steer clear of any torn or frayed edges; you don’t want to look like a trashy glamour girl on a bad night out - not a good look.