Free Costuming Hints and Tips Booklet

Davina (nee Dawn Divine) has been writing costuming books about as long as I have been dancing. In my early dancer days, I would purchase and pore over her books at the time, looking for ideas and inspiration.

She offers a free PDF "booklet" on her website with general guidelines for putting together a costume, and care and storage of your costumes. It touches on both cabaret and classic tribal (think turbans and 10-yards) styles. Check it out here!

Fabulous Friday - Cleopatra

Student Spotlight - Carmen Bellotti

Name: Carmen Bellotti
Age: 23
Profession: Playing with puppies at Mud Bay
Hobbies: Dance really is my main hobby, but I also enjoy reading, sewing, and yoga in my spare time.
How long have you been studying bellydance: It will be six and a half years in July.

When did you first see bellydance? What were your first impressions? 

I always admired belly dancing and felt it was a beautiful and ancient dance. I loved how the women seemed to have such control over their body and carried themselves so gracefully. Confidence is something I lacked, so I think their poise and grace was very alluring to me. I don't really think I was ever "exposed" to belly dance. The only time I recall seeing a belly dancer was at my grade school's auction where the theme was Arabian Nights and a belly dancer was performing around the event. At the time I was too young to really understand what I saw, and it didn't leave a huge impression on me.

Mm Mm Monday - Rachel Brice Interview BDC

There is no denying it: Rachel Brice is a compelling artist. An aesthete to the core, she brings visual elements together in her dance and costuming that are exquisite and exquisitely inspiring. She is also incredibly thoughtful and articulate, as is demonstrated in this fantastic interview/vignette created by Bellydance China for their 2013 conference. Enjoy walking down memory lane with RB, and hear some thoughts on how she creates her unique costuming looks.