Costume questions:
- What makes a bellydance costume?
- Where to I find them?
- What do I look for?
- Costume care (coming soon)
- Misc. advice for the first-time performer. (coming soon)
Costumes:
Part 1: The Basic Uniform
Bellydance costumes are as diverse as any other kind of clothing out there, and styles change over the years.
| The
"cabaret" bellydance costume generally consists of a
decorated bra, and a matching decorated belt (also called a girdle or
hipband). This is generally not attached to the skirts, allowing
the
dancer to mix and match different skirts for different looks.
Some dancers like the sheer skirt look; others prefer their legs
covered. There
may be other accessories as well, including sleeves, vests, armbands,
anklets, and headbands. Harem pants may also be worn, generally
under
a skirt. But the quintesenntial cabaret costume is bra, belt, and skirt. (Right: "Seeing Stars" model from Dahlal Internationale) |
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Alternatively, dresses have become very popular. These range
from simple to lavishly beaded and decorated concoctions with sheer
mesh cutouts in strategic locations. As dresses are generally more fragile and harder to clean, as well as less flexible in terms of different looks, most dancers save them for special occasions rather than use them for regular restaurant work. (Left: "Exhibitionist" model from Dahlal Internationale) |
| Prefer an older
look? A coin bra and belt set may be perfect for you. The
"ethnic" look was very popular in the 70's, and involved the use of
authentic coins, assuit fabric, and antique headdresses. This
look is still very popular, and has been picked up on and modified by
the Tribal dancers (see below). (Right: "Ancient Reflections set" model from Dahlal Internationale) |
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Perhaps
glitter and glamour isn't for you. You might like the Tribal look
and style of dancing. Tribal costuming, like the dance itself, is
a fusion of elements from India, Africa, and various regions of the
Middle East. Being a purely American invention, it can be pretty
much anything you want it to be. I do not personally perform
American Tribal Style (ATS), but I do have a Tribal costume for fun-
it's a great look for any dancer. I wanted to mention that this costume style is also favored by the Goth bellydancers, making a for a wild, leather-and-dreadlocks look that is just awesome. (left: Drazsica of Domba) |
Next: Where can I find them?
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