Showgirls were once considered the height of glamour and artistry in the American and European entertainment world. From Parisian cabarets to the glittering stages of Las Vegas, these performers embodied spectacle with their plumes, sequins, and daring choreography.
But behind the dazzling facade lay a complex story of ambition, exploitation, reinvention, and cultural fascination. The showgirl was never just a woman in costume; she was an emblem of entertainment’s evolving relationship with femininity and sexuality.
Her legacy still lingers today.
So, how much of today’s entertainment industry is influenced by the history of the showgirl? Click through this gallery to find out.