For Practice, Performance, or Instruction

For those new to the world of belly dancing, getting a costume for belly dancing may seem like a daunting task. But putting a belly dance costume together couldn’t be easier. There are just a few simple things to remember when choosing or making a costume.

Costumes for Practicing Belly Dance

If you just want a belly dance costume for practicing or taking classes, there are several options. Exercise or workout clothing is always appropriate for practicing belly dance. Sweat pants or yoga pants and a t-shirt would be just fine.

Some people prefer to wear a practice costume. This can help them get in the dancing mood, and can also make them feel more feminine. If that is the case, there are several options for practice outfits.

If you are taking a belly dance class, make sure to check with the teacher before purchasing an outfit. Some teachers have requirements or costumes that aren’t allowed in class. So it’s wise to check first. A practice outfit can vary in style and how dressed up you want to be. It could be anything from a hip scarf or belt added to regular workout clothing, or you could wear a peasant skirt or pantaloons paired with a midriff baring blouse.

Practice outfits don’t have to be fancy or showy, but you can make them fun. These kinds of outfits can easily be found at thrift stores, or patterns exist online if you wish to make them yourself. You can spend a fortune on a practice outfit, but you don’t really need to.

Costumes for Performing Belly Dance

When considering a belly dance costume that is suitable for performance, the main thing to remember is the style. Whether you are interested in performing Egyptian style belly dancing, belly dancing in a Turkish style, or dancing a tribal style, your costume should correspond.

Egyptian style costumes usually consist of a bra top and a skirt with hip accents (or a belt). Egyptian costumes are often bright and showy, with sequins or beading on the costume. Turkish costumes are very similar to Egyptian style costumes, but they often cover less of the body. The slits in the skirt usually come up higher, for example.

A tribal costume, though it may seem more authentic because it covers more of the body and uses more natural fabrics and materials, was invented by someone in America. The tribal costume usually consists of a bra decorated with coins, layered skirts, and hip scarves with coins or fringe.

Belly dance costumes can be fun and interesting, and there are many options. If you keep in mind that there are different styles for practice versus performance as well as the type of dance you are doing, you can get a feel for the costume you need.

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It’s fun, you will never know ’til you try!

Many people get the wrong idea about what belly dancing is and who should participate in it. There are many myths and untruths surrounding the art of belly dancing, which convinces many people to avoid trying out belly dance. The truth is that anyone can have a good experience with belly dancing.

Some people assume that belly dancing is a burlesque dance; a stripper-type dance meant for seduction. This myth probably exists because Western culture and the media have perpetuated this stereotype. However, it simply isn’t the case.

Belly dance is a traditional folk dance with a long history throughout countries of the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey and performed primarily by women and girls when they and their families gathered together. Today, belly dancing is a dance form that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Sometimes called Oriental dance, the belly dance is a source of enjoyment, of entertainment, and sometimes used as a routine for exercise. In spite of its occasional reputation as such, belly dancing is not related to stripping or seduction, certainly not in its purest form, the way we consider it here.

Another myth that circulates about belly dancing is that you must have a flat stomach or a killer body in order to participate in belly dancing. Nothing could be further from the truth. Women of all body types enjoy belly dancing. And not all belly dance costumes reveal the midriff section. There are more modest costumes that cover more of the body for those who aren’t comfortable revealing too much.

At the same time, belly dancing doesn’t have to take place on a stage or in a performance at a restaurant. It can also be done just for fun, in a class or by yourself; no one needs to see you dance at all. And for those who are looking to improve the shape of their body, belly dancing is a good way to exercise and get in shape. There is no specific body shape that is required to do belly dancing.

Some people feel that belly dancing seems too hard for the average person to figure out, but the fact is, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Belly dancing involves movements that are natural to the female body. The moves are flowing and gentle.  The coordination and grace that so many belly dancers exhibit was learned as they practiced belly dancing. Anyone can learn the moves and gain new coordination as they dance. It just takes practice.

Some women feel that because they aren’t young, that belly dancing is not for them. The reality is that women of all ages enjoy belly dancing. It can be an empowering dance form that can boost self-esteem and provide many physical benefits. There is no age limit or reason that a woman of any age can’t belly dance.

Belly dancing is a beautiful art form and a relaxing way to get exercise and enjoy movement and music. Belly dance is not a dance of seduction, and it can be done by anyone of any size or shape. Many of the myths and beliefs about belly dancing simply aren’t true, and they prevent people from trying out and enjoying a wonderful dance. You might check out our brief discussion on Choosing Belly Dance Music, elsewhere on this site.

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The Vibrant Music of the Middle East

Belly dance music is a broad genre of music and includes music from Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern countries. The type of music to use while belly dancing depends on the style of belly dance and whether the person is performing, practicing, or just belly dancing for fun or as a hobby. Read on to learn about some of the basics of choosing belly dance music.

Music from the Middle East is very different from Western music. While Western music relies on melody and a varying rhythm, Eastern music primarily uses rhythm to carry the music. This type of music allows for improvisation, as the music is very free and flowing. Music used for belly dancing is very rhythmic and is very suited to the graceful, fluid movements done in belly dancing.

Types of Music for Practicing Belly Dance

If you’re interested in learning Arabic belly dance, it’s important to use authentic belly dance music to practice with. Belly dance music, whether Egyptian, Turkish, or Arabic, has a specific type of rhythm that can take some getting used to. Practicing with Middle Eastern music will help you use belly dance moves correctly.

There are an abundance of exciting Arabic belly dance performance cd’s available and also many for instruction and exercise, see a few representative titles listed on this site with more to be referenced shortly.

When practicing belly dance for fun or simply mixing belly dance in with other dance styles, there is no need to be constrained to a specific type of music. Similarly, if you are using belly dance as a way to get in shape, the music used doesn’t matter. Simply choose music that inspires you or is easy to dance to. The main thing is just do it, and enjoy the experience.

Belly Dance Music and Performing

Though most people do belly dance for fun or enjoyment, there are some who take it to the next level and take steps to perform belly dancing in public. Those who seek to perform as belly dancers, must choose music more carefully than when its just for fun because the music sets the tone for the dance. If you wish to be seen as an authentic belly dancer, then authentic music must be used.

`It is also important to use music that matches the style of dance you are doing. If, for example, you do a Turkish style belly dance performance, then you should find authentic Turkish dance music. An Egyptian style dance will need authentic Egyptian music as accompaniment.

An exception is when you are doing a fusion style belly dance number. Fusion combines traditional belly dancing with more modern genres such as jazz or hip hop. A performance of this nature can go well with any type of music you choose, but be sure to denote that the dance you are doing is fusion style. Study up on belly dance styles to make sure and choose music that matches.

Choosing the right belly dance music is important for those who wish to perform professionally or those who want to learn about the culture and history of belly dancing. When dancing for fun, any music can be used. But when performing, it is helpful to know the style of belly dance and choose the music accordingly.

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About Belly Dance, introducing
background information of general interest

From our colleague Adiba

Belly Dance Props

Belly dancing, which is the westernized version of the traditional Arabic dance called raqs sharqi, has evolved over time and encompasses many dance styles. In many of those  styles of belly dancing, props are used to enhance the dancing and make it more interesting and enjoyable. These are some of the basic props that may be used while dancing:

Zills or Finger Cymbals
Finger cymbals have been used in traditional belly dancing for hundreds of years, and at least as far back as 500 A.D. Finger cymbals, called sagat in Arabic or zills in Turkish, are placed upon the thumb and middle finger of both of the dancer’s hands. They can add interest to the dance performance, as well as to the instrumentality and rhythm, and also to any Arabic belly dance song that may accompany the Arabic belly dancing performance.

Finger cymbals vary in size, style, and materials used. The type used is generally left up to personal preference and the style of dance being done. The cymbals are attached to the fingers with an elastic band, and can make a resonant or dull sound, depending on the way they are struck together.

Belly Dancing with a Veil
Veil dancing has really only taken place within the past century and mostly came about from influence from western culture. Although dancing with a veil is not as traditional in belly dancing, it is still a very popular part of belly dancing. Veils provide an aura mystery and femininity.

A veil is made of light fabric such as silk that flows freely. Dances done using a veil are usually slower, using softer music. The veil can be wrapped around the belly dancer’s body, it can be held up by the dancer so that it flows behind her as she moves and spins, and can be used in many other ways to accent the dance.

Cane Dancing
Dancing with a cane in belly dancing comes from dances in Upper Egypt, traditionally done by shepherds. The male version of the cane dance is called Tahib, and it is masculine with a martial arts emphasis. Women later adopted the cane as part of belly dancing, but they adapted it to be more flirtatious and light-hearted.

The canes women use in belly dancing are more delicate than those used for the male version of the dance. The cane is usually made from bamboo with a hook on the end.

Sword Dancing
Using a sword as a prop in belly dancing was not traditionally done by women in the Middle East. In Egypt, men performed a martial arts dance with an upraised sword, but using a sword during belly dancing comes more from western influence.

In America and other western countries, swords are used to demonstrate a woman’s balance, power, and poise. During belly dancing, the sword is balanced on the head and in the hands, and the sword is generally dull in order to protect the dancer and her audience. Sword dancing can be very dramatic and interesting when done properly.

There are many different props that can be used in belly dancing. Many of the props have a historical context and come from some of the traditional dances of the Middle East, while other props are heavily influenced by western culture. Props can add interest and enjoyment to belly dancing.

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About Belly Dance, introducing
background information of general interest

From our colleague Adiba

Belly Dance Costumes

Arabic belly dancing has changed over the years. The dance form, beginning as a traditional and enjoyable pastime for women in the Middle East, has evolved and incorporated many of the styles and ideas from western culture. This is very evident in belly dance costumes. From traditional to a mixture of modern, described below are several costume styles that are popular among belly dancers today.

Cabaret or American Restaurant
A cabaret-style belly dance costume is probably the most recognized and the one most people think of when they hear the term ‘belly dancing.’ This costume is usually flashy, with colorful fabrics and beaded accessories. It usually consists of a bra-style top, a skirt, and a belt to enhance the belly dancer’s moves. Egyptian Cabaret and Turkish Cabaret are both included in this style of costume.

Egyptian Style
The Egyptian Arabic belly dance style of  costume consists of a full dress or a bra and skirt with a hip belt. Costumes today are usually decorated with beading, sequins, rhinestones, or fringe. In Egypt, it is illegal to show a bare midriff. Therefore, a body stocking or some type of netting is worn under the costume.

Turkish Costumes
Turkish belly dance costumes are generally a more revealing cabaret style than most. The dancer usually wears the belt higher on the waist, and the skirt contains splits that reveal most (if not all) of the thigh. In addition, Turkish costumes also often include high-heel shoes that accentuate the dancer’s movement.

Upper Egyptian Beledi
The Beledi style of belly dance costume is an Egyptian costume that is more folkloric and traditional. This style consists of a long dress, usually made of natural fibers and made from glittery material. Arabic belly dancers often use this style to perform dances that are more folkloric in nature.

American Tribal Costumes
The American tribal style of belly dancing was created in America in the 1970s. Although it originated in America, it is a style that is becoming popular around the world. The tribal costume is influenced by a variety of sources including tribes from Northern Africa and Asia. Tribal dancers usually wear layered skirts, bras that are decorated with coins, and hip scarves decorated with fringe. They also usually wear heavy jewelry and use khol to paint their faces or tattoo their bodies.

And Many Others
There are many different belly dance costumes and styles, and each one is a way for the belly dancer to distinguish herself. Many of the belly dance costume styles are a fusion of traditional Middle Eastern styles and western influence.

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About Belly Dance, introducing
background information of general interest

From our colleague Adiba

Belly Dance for Health

The Arabic belly dance is a traditional dance originating in the Middle East. Though many people in western culture equate belly dance with a seductive style of dance, belly dancing actually began as a folk dance used to celebrate and enjoy time together. Belly dance can be used today for enjoyment and can also be used to increase overall health.

Belly Dance as Exercise
Arabic belly dancing is a great way to get exercise. Because it is low impact, it does not cause stress to the joints as some forms of exercise can. This allows just about anyone to participate in belly dancing, no matter what age or shape they are in. The soft and graceful movements work with a woman’s body rather than against it. The movements are natural and allow a woman to enjoy belly dancing at any age.

Health Benefits of Belly Dancing
There are many health benefits that come from regular belly dancing. Most people use exercise to lose weight, and belly dancing can also be used for weight loss. And imagine the Arabic belly dance fat burning capacity. Depending on the style and intensity of the dancing, belly dancing can burn up to 300 calories per hour. And although weight loss is not important for everyone, for those looking to lose weight, belly dancing can help.

Another benefit of belly dancing is that it can help lower stress levels. Like Tai Chi, belly dancing uses flowing and repetitive movements that relax the body and mind. Belly dancing can be almost like a form of meditation and can help clear the mind.

For those suffering from back pain or joint pain, belly dancing can help. Because belly dancing incorporates movements that are gentle and repetitive, the muscles are stretched and joints receive gentle movement. Belly dancing gives the hips and lower back a full range of movement. This can help relieve back and hip pain, improve posture, and counteract disk pressure from a sedentary lifestyle.

There are many other benefits to belly dance, including an increase in bone density. Belly dancing is considered a weight bearing exercise, which means it can help increase bone density when done regularly. Belly dancing can also aid a woman in preparing for childbirth, as the movements done during belly dancing strengthen the muscles needed during childbirth.

There are definite health benefits and advantages to taking part in belly dancing. While the health benefits are only a side benefit for those looking to enjoy the art form of Arabic belly dancing, it is a side benefit that increases enjoyment of belly dancing and can increase a person’s general health.

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