1940 red cellophane showgirl costume owned by drag performer Li-Kar

Extraordinary 1940s showgirl two piece ensemble comprising a structured bra top and dramatically full, fringed skirt that sits lower on the hips, constructed from brilliant red woven cellophane. The skirt has beautiful movement and the material catches the light with an almost neon brilliance.

Most significantly, this costume comes from the personal collection of Li-Kar, an important figure in early American drag performance and in theatrical costume design. Li-Kar was a performer at San Francisco’s legendary Finocchio’s nightclub, one of the best known venues for drag during the mid-20th century. 

“Eventually, the fashions Li-Kar created became one more reason to see the show. His “costumes are truly exquisite,” the Chronicle informed its readers in 1941. As late as 1958, the paper, always a fan, noted, “The style-conscious will be interested in the beautiful costumes worn in Finocchio’s lavish new revue,” designed by Lee Carr (SF Bay Times).”

It seems very likely that this costume was designed by Li-Kar. (Li-Kar) “was appearing around the country in “his own authentic dance creations from the world’s concert stages (SF Bay Times).”

Measurements

Bra

Labeled 34B

Bust: 32”

Underbust: 30”

Skirt

Waist: 27/28”

Length: 33”

Condition

The skirt is shedding its fringe and there are some abrasions as pictured, but in overall strong and wearable condition. Size is also easily adjustable by moving hook & eye closures. 

https://www.queermusicheritage.com/FEMALE/Finocchios/Argonaut-2018.pdf  

https://sfbaytimes.com/jackie-mei-ling-and-chinatowns-female-impersonators/