Did ya notice those wonderful costumes each of the dancers wore?? Can you guess how many "layers" of clothing they had on? I betcha can't.. I'm still trying to figure it out, so here is my answer on this subject. Let's take a close look at Amanda from ATS-flyin skirts in her basic outfit.
Top: head, she isn't wearing the optional hair pieces, turban/hat or flowers, but she certainly could and still be tribal. Add long hair!! It's a must!
Bust: that cover is called a Choli.. it is basic wardrobe item and everyone should have a "good" choli . Choli's can have long or short sleeves and they come in so many colors and fabrics.. So spend some cash on a good one that you feel comfortable wearing. Now you can add on top or beneath such things as a "coin Bra", jewelry that include Cowrie beeds/shells or what ever at arm, necklace, or wrist. Dangle goodies or use a shear cover up over your belly.. You're still "tribal". (You want a good bra under your Choli for support, esp you well endowed ladies- you know whatcha need-just make sure the choli covers it.)
Waist/hip: Starting from unders.. harem pants or loose flowing pants in any color you like!!
Next a skirt or two--if one is see thru all the better. Here you want "flowing fabrics". (the image has one cotton skirt with RED border at bottom over harem pants). On top of the skirt, ADD a scarf with tassels..or coins!! Or both!!or Add a shorter colorful "square" skirt. (Tribal is more about tassels & fabric flowing while the Cabaret style is more about Noise & glitter)
BELTS: this is a separate catagory..and you can really spend alot of time, money & effort on Tribal Belts.. There are coin belts.. tiny intricate belts to large glittering noisey belts, or cloth belts with lots of flowing fringe, tassels & flashy items.... the image has long light brown yarn & tassel belt.. A good belt will cover your bottom and tie in front/side with long ends that hang down.
We are showing bellys, All belly's. You don't have to have a flat belly or tooth pick bod to dress up and DANCE.. But if you are self conscious about your belly, use a shear cover up. Just some chiffon fabric sewn to your bra and tucked into your waist/hips ..but it has to be SHEAR!!
FEET: you can wear slippers or go bare foot.. I have a thin pair of house slippers in black that I use..but mostly I am bare foot. Ankles can have bells, bobbles or jingles. Toes can have RInGS.. HOW fun!! but that is getting back into the cabaret style costuming.
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Search and learn, there are so many great costumes, that you may want them all...so here is the trifty way to get outfited.. SEW- Make those Harem Pants..*they are under everything so don't have to be perfect..just elastic at the waist & ankles!! The large flowing skirts has elastic at the waist, and your belt covers all that..Make a belt with yarn and bits N bobs from your sewing stash...Loop, chrochey long strands of yarn, and make lots of large tassels!! add your own style of fabrics ..remember colorful!! and you are good to go!!
OK, Now I am hooked. I sew and I have this stash of YARN.. great for making TASSELS..
I think I can make a darn good "belt"!! Gotta check my fabric stash....Hmmm
