The Babes of Modern Burlesque

Despite their elaborate costumes, throwback choreography and reluctance to perform to Warrant's "Cherry Pie," make no mistake about it: Burlesque dancers are just olde-timey strippers. And while there's something to be said for a beer-soaked lapdance from a Destiny or a Mercedes, we also appreciate the finesse and artistry of the Ditas of the world.

Lucky for us, the classic striptease has experienced a revival in recent years -- leading to the popularity of Ivan Kane's 40 Deuce burlesque clubs in Vegas and Hollywood, Dita von Teese's mainstream popularity and, well, the Pussycat Dolls. And just last week, a flood of tasty tassel twirlers hit NYC for the New York Burlesque Festival, inspiring us to stake our pics for the sexiest gals to ever shake their pasties.