Tribal Costuming

At a recent class, we actually didn't dance, we simply discussed a few things that some ladies had some questions about. It was a lot of fun and, I hope, very informative. From that, I felt the need to write a blog post that discussed some of the basic components and materials used in Tribal and Tribal Fusion Costuming. There are subtle differences in each, and we will only touch on the basics in this post. At the bottom of the post, I will post a few links to various websites that I like the best when it comes to your look! Get ready, this one is a doozy!

Tribal Style Costuming

Pantaloons - Pantaloons, or harem pants, are crucial for a Tribal Style performer and is oftentimes a requirement for American Tribal Style Dancers. They aren't just cool looking and comfy, they're practical and will help keep that big skirt out from under your feet. There are many different sizes and styles and they are incredibly easy to make. Here's a picture!

Skirts -  In tribal, the most common skirt is the 25 yard skirt. It has a lot of flow, and can be worn in many different ways. Some ladies wear two (or more, but goodness that's a lot of fabric) and bustle them so that both layers are seen. I LOVE 24 yarders on Tribal ladies. It is SO pretty and gives a little extra flounce at the hips. They come in virtually EVERY color too! I suggest saving up and buying one if you want one though, they are a pain to make, but there are patterns available. Dancers will also decorate on top with panel skirts, over skirts, or even a shawl around the hips. 

Belt/Bra - These pieces are a staple in every style of dance, but the look is different in Tribal Style and Tribal fusion. For the most part, Tribal Dancers tear tassel belts when performing. They attach HUGE, handmade tassels that can hang at varying lengths. The bra and belt both can be decorated with tassells, amulets, chain, coins, shells, extra fabric, and pretty much anything you can think of.  The coins, for a tribal dancer, are typically heavier than the ones found on the coin belts in class. Your imagination is your only limitation on this one. Most dancers I know make theirs, as buying them can get expensive.

Choli - The choli is another staple in the ATS and ITS fashion. It is again, super comfy, easy to make, and great for casual performances or class! It does bare the midriff  and the American Tribal Style Dancers wear it with on open back. This is so that the ladies following, can see the cues easier. Oftentimes, a Choli is worn under the bra. 

Turban or Headpieces - In ATS, the Turban is pretty prominent, though no longer mandatory. It does have it significance however and can help with balancing things. Tribal dancers love to decorate their hair however and will often use silk flowers, tribal textiles, plants, quills, and bits of jewelry. For many ladies, more is more. Below are two pictures of Carolena Nericcio, the mother of ATS and director of Fat Chance Belly Dance with two different head pieces. 

Jewelry -  Jewelry for tribal dancers is pretty open. Most women keep with some of the middle eastern jewelry found in the Kuchi, Rahasthani, Turkomen, Moroccan, and Afghan tribes. Again, often, more is more.

Tribal Fusion Costuming

The thing about Tribal Fusion, is that it isn't ALWAYS the costume that make you that way. A lot of fusion ladies wear 25 yd skirts, cholis, tassel belts and coin bras, but I'm listing a few things that can be different in fusion costuming. 

Pants - Whether they are Garter, "fly" or just a modified yoga pant, many tribal fusion ladies wear tight pants as opposed to the voluminous pantaloons (though they wear those too). Here are a few pictures for you to check out. 

Skirts -  A lot of fusion ladies like the straight line and mermaid style skirts when they dance. They hug the curves and can really accentuate the moves. Short skirts over pants or leggings are also very popular.

Links

Buy it!

www.moondancebellydance.com
www.magicalfashions.com

www.redcamel.net
www.silkroadtribal.com

www.tribenawaar.com

Make it!

www.redcamel.net - supplies
www.silkroadtribal.com - supplies
http://www.pinterest.com/alexedmondson07/she-s-a-pattern-cuttah-a-costume-makah/ - Arianna's costume making board for instructions and inspiration

http://www.blackswantribe.com.au/Bits_And_Pieces.html - some good pattern instructions

http://catalog.fcbd.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=84&products_id=273&zenid=50941b712be4efc9c165407c4825a62a - ATS pattern to buy, has pretty much everything you need

http://www.shushanna.com/brabase.html - making a bra (some other great tutorials on here too!)

http://www.davina.us/blog/ - Lots of cotume books, how-toos, and information on tribal cotuming

There is A LOT of information for you, and that's not even the tip of the iceberg! But don't get overwhelmed! Google search some stuff and enjoy yourself! Create your style and have fun doing, that's part of the process!