How to Know If You Should Become a Stripper

Apply for a license. Each region has different requirements, but most require you to apply for a license to become an erotic dancer. The cost to apply for this permit also varies from region to region. For example, the city of Denver, Cporado requires erotic dancers to apply for a business license for a total cost of approximately $175 USD, and also requires a criminal background check. ^[5]

• Licensing requirements will vary depending on where you live and where you work, so you should inquire about these requirements (if applicable) in your city and/or state.

Buy costumes. Before going to the rehearsal, you need to prepare the costumes. Maybe you should just buy one outfit at first, until you get a steady job. There are many online stores that sell costumes in sets or individually, and also bikinis. Choose an outfit that suits your personality. For example, if you’re going to dance to some pretty vibrant pop or hip-hop music, don’t wear black, try on a stylish outfit instead. Choose bright colors, sparkles, and glamorous designs. If you want to dance to rock music, choose dark clothes with chrome or metallic sheen.

• These outfits range from $30 – $100 for a complete set – with some exceptions it will be cheaper or more expensive. Choose what suits your budget. You should wait until you have a stable income to choose expensive fancy clothes.
• Depending on the type of club you’re working for, clothing may show more or less skin. For example, if you’re dancing at a club that allows full nudity, or is bare-chested, or only in bikinis, then you’ll have to choose your outfit accordingly.

Buy shoes. You can’t wear loafers on stage as a stripper. Strippers often wear very high heels, so you’ll have to buy yourself one. Don’t buy regular low heel shoes but choose a pair that is at least 10 cm high. Buy a pair of special shoes for dancers. Consider the see-through heels you see in movie dancers. Usually you can buy these shoes at the same clothing store. Some online stores have promotions when you buy a complete outfit, like discounts or free shipping, so take advantage of that when you buy everything in one place. ^[6]

• A good pair of heels can be even more expensive than a suit, usually around $60-200. Initially, you should buy a pair of shoes at a low price, and wait until you have earned a stable income. Consider buying a pair of shoes that can be worn with many different outfits.

Pay club fees. Many clubs require dancers to pay for each night they come to work. Dancers are often seen as independent contractors, so you’ll have to pay “rent” to do the work. Fees vary from club to club, depending on the club you are working for and each evening. For example, weekend evening fees may be higher than weekday evenings. Fees can range from $10 – $200/night or more, depending on the aforementioned factors. ^[7]

• In addition, you also have to tip the bodyguards/security guards, the counter staff (because they bring customers to you), and even the DJ playing music for the show.

People may judge you negatively. Pursuing a career in nude or erotic dance can really make people look at you negatively. Being naked is generally not considered an ethical way to make money, no matter how pure your thoughts. Many people have stereotypes about nude dancers that they will also apply to you, even if you are not what they think you are. You need to prepare yourself for the notoriety that this job brings, even the impact on personal relationships. ^[8]

• As a stripper, you can have a hard time finding a lasting relationship, as it’s hard for anyone to accept that you’re naked or belly-dancing in front of other people. If you’re in a relationship, talk to your partner and make sure it doesn’t negatively affect your relationship. ^[9]

Awareness of negative psychological influences. Since your salary will depend on whether others find you beautiful, you will also place your self-esteem and worth on the scale of physical attractiveness. Some strippers feel negative about themselves, or have harsh judgments about their appearance, which is difficult and expensive to change. Consider whether you can handle this in the future if you choose to be a stripper. ^[10]

• On the other hand, some strippers find taking off their clothes feels very free and confident. It all depends on your personality and your own feelings.

You probably won’t earn the expected amount. Since you’ve had to spend a decent amount of money on licensing, club fees, clothes and shoes initially, it’s possible that you’ll only break even after a few nights or even weeks. Staff tips and club fees can leave you empty-handed when you get home, but other days you might have a few hundred dollars left after all expenses have been deducted. The amount you earn will vary as it depends mainly on tips and what customers pay for private dance sessions. ^[11]

• The better your business skills, the better your chances of making money. Private dance sessions will often bring in more money than tips for performing on stage, so if you don’t like dancing separately, then stripper career is not for you.

You may encounter aggressive customers. Unfortunately, some people who go to a nude club believe that strippers are open to business – whatever the business. You may meet people who are very touchy or aggressive during a private dance session. You will have to stand up for yourself and set limits for yourself when doing private dance sessions with clients. You don’t have to do anything you don’t like. Tip a lot for the bodyguard and make sure to always have a bodyguard nearby when you’re dancing or performing privately.

• If any aspect of this profession worries or displeases you, you should not pursue it. You should not put yourself in a difficult situation, when you are not ready to say no at times of need.

Remember that you will find drugs. Some of your colleagues or clients use or sell drugs. Of course, this is unlikely to happen, but you should be prepared for that possibility. If you are prone to drug abuse, you should avoid being a stripper, because the temptation of drugs will be higher. You are also more likely to get involved in illegal activities, especially when you use or buy drugs at work. ^[12]

• Using drugs or getting drunk during a performance can leave you vulnerable to sexual assault, or to being robbed of the money you would otherwise receive from private dance sessions. It’s important to maintain alertness and vigilance while at work, so you should avoid getting naked if you’re not sure you can.