If you’ve got a copy of my award-winning burlesque book STRIP/TEASE sitting on your coffee table right now, then chances are you’re already familiar with Chicago burlesque performer Shimmy LaRoux, who I met via the Burlesque Hall of Fame stage in 2019. Competing in the Movers, Shakers and Innovators showcase, I LOVED Shimmy’s use of vibrant colour in her burlesque costumes – and so when Shimmy got in touch to book a Virtual Boudoir Shoot with me a few weeks ago, I could barely contain my excitement!

Shimmy’s virtual shoot took place using an iPhone 11 Pro, which did an amazing job of picking up all the glorious detailing on both her vintage lingerie and that epic feature wall behind the sofa! Want to know more about the Incredible Shimmy Laroux and her remote photoshoot experience? Read on…

Shimmy LaRoux

Occupation: Burlesque Performer and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Consultant

How would your best friend describe you? They would describe me as creative, funny, kind, tactful, empathetic and resourceful with hot auntie vibes

Name three things that you always carry with you? Lotion, my phones, headphones

What was the last book you read? I now mostly listen to audiobooks. The last two I heard were “Entitled” by Kate Manne and “You’ll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey” by Amber Ruffin and Lacey Lamar

Do you remember how you originally found me? I’ve followed your work online for years

What inspired you to book a Virtual Boudoir Shoot? It was a gift to myself for placing on the Burlesque Top 50 list

Who would play Shimmy Laroux in a movie of your life? Viola Davis for sure!

What’s the most interesting thing about you that the internet doesn’t know about you yet? I have a minor in sculpture and my favorite class was metalworking and enameling

Tell us about one of the outfits you wore for your virtual photography session – why do you love it? I love vintage lingerie – especially peignoirs. I also love the look of the 60s and my living room has a mid century vibe, so it was natural to put them together.

Describe your Virtual Shoot experience? It was perfection. Tigz was so kind and friendly throughout the entire shoot, walking me through getting the right angle, posing and making sure I looked great. Even after the shoot was over, it was so easy and comfortable to chat. It was as if we knew each other forever (and I still owe her a mushroom gravy recipe!)

What song gets you on the dancefloor? Back Dat Azz Up – Juvenile. Those opening strings get me EVERY SINGLE TIME

What are you most proud of in your life so far? Burlesque – Performing at BHoF in 2019. Professionally – opening my own consultancy

What is your top body confidence tip? You don’t have to love every part of your body, you don’t even need to like everything about your body. However, everyone has a body part that looks good – even if it is your elbows. Find that part and flaunt the fuck out of it.

What will your autobiography be called? You’re Welcome: The Life and Times of Shimmy LaRoux

If you could be a model for any brand, which brand would it be and why? I would LOVE to be a model for vintage caftans or a modern brand like Sai Sankoh. There is something about being enveloped in sumptuous, bright fabrics. It’s so glamorous.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about booking a virtual photoshoot of their own? Don’t overthink it. You’re beautiful and you should highlight that. Book the session, thank me later.

What exciting project are you working on right now? I’m in idea percolating mode now when it comes to burlesque, so it’s a bit quiet. But, I am exploring pole as a way to move my body in different ways and that’s been fun.

Want a little bit more of burlesque performer Shimmy LaRoux in your life?

You can also find Shimmy in my award-winning burlesque book STRIP/TEASE. Treat yourself to a copy of my book right here.