Belly dance costumes vary depending on the region and style of the dance, but generally, they are designed to accentuate the movements and curves of the dancer’s body. There are variety of costumes that range from low, mid to high price range. As an beginner to intermediate belly dancer or learner it is always recommended to go for mid price range costumes as they last longer and are as pretty as high range belly dance costumes. The costume consists of several elements, which are described in detail below.
Belly Dance Bra: This is typically a heavily embellished and beaded bra or top that covers the breasts and sometimes includes straps that go over the shoulders. The top is usually designed to be tight-fitting and may have underwire for support. Some belly dance styles use a full top that covers the belly, while others expose the midriff.The top worn for belly dance is typically a fitted, bra-like garment with ornate beading, embroidery, or sequins. It is often made of stretchy fabric to allow for ease of movement and may be decorated with fringe or tassels that move with the dancer’s movements. Some tops may have sleeves, while others may be sleeveless or have straps that cross over the back.- Belly Dance belt :The belt is worn around the hips and is often heavily decorated with beads, sequins, and coins. The coins create a jingling sound when the dancer moves, adding to the musicality of the performance. The Belly Dance belt is usually tied at the back or side with long, flowing ties.
- The skirt: The skirt is typically a full or half-circle skirt that is either straight or slightly flared. The skirt is usually made of lightweight, flowy fabric such as chiffon or silk and may be decorated with sequins or beading. The skirt is designed to move with the dancer’s movements and can be lifted or swayed to accentuate certain moves.
- Belly Dance Pants: In some styles of belly dance, the dancer wears pants rather than a skirt. These pants are typically harem pants that are loose and flowing, with a gathered waistband and tapered ankles. The pants may be decorated with beads or embroidery.
- Belly Dance Accessories : Accessories such as arm cuffs, wrist cuffs, ankle cuffs, and headpieces may be worn to complete the costume. These accessories are typically decorated with beads, sequins, and coins and are designed to add to the overall aesthetic of the costume.
- Hip Scarf : A Belly Dance Hip Scarf is a piece of fabric or a belt that is worn around the hips to accentuate the movements of the hips and abdomen. It is usually decorated with beads, coins, or fringe that jingle as the dancer moves.
- Belly Dance JEWELLERY : Belly dance costumes are often accessorized with jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, body crystals or Belly Dance Crystal Bindis. These pieces may be decorated with beads, stones, or metalwork, and may be coordinated with the colors and designs of the costume.
- Belly Dance veil : A veil is a long, sheer piece of fabric that is used as a prop in belly dance. It may be draped over the head or wrapped around the body and used to create dramatic movements and gestures.
Belly Dance wrist and ankle cuff bracelet
Wrist and ankle cuffs are commonly used in belly dance as an accessory to enhance the dancer’s movements and add a touch of elegance to the performance. The cuffs are usually made of soft fabric or metal, and are often decorated with beads, coins, or other embellishments. In belly dance, wrist cuffs are worn to accentuate arm movements, particularly those that involve the hands and fingers.
They can also help the dancer create a sense of flow and grace as she moves her arms and hands through the air. Ankle cuffs, on the other hand, are worn to emphasize footwork and lower body movements. They can help to draw attention to the dancer’s feet and legs, adding to the overall visual effect of the performance. In addition to their aesthetic value, wrist and ankle cuffs can also serve a practical purpose in belly dance.
They can help to prevent the dancer’s clothing from getting caught on her hands or feet during particularly complex or fast-paced movements, allowing her to focus on the dance itself.
Overall, belly dance costumes are designed to be colorful, vibrant, and expressive. They are meant to accentuate the dancer’s movements and create an enchanting visual spectacle for the audience. The intricate designs and embellishments of the costume reflect the rich cultural heritage of the dance, while the flowing fabrics and jingling accessories add to the sensual and celebratory nature of the performance.