Thread: Most affordable first bedlah

So, I want to buy a real stage bedlah, or a reproduction that looks like one at least. Now, I actually happen to live in the Middle East, but still don't know where to start.

I've seen some Chinese versions on ebay, some of whom have great customer reviews as to quality.

I'm not going to be doing shows for 2 hours a pop in this; its just for me personally--But I don't want it to fall apart out of the bag either.

Can I get something like this cheaper in the West Bank--the reason I looked online is because everything here is made in China anyways--or could I find some real home sewn stuff? I would be shopping in Tul Karim, if anyone has been shopping there before. I have never seen any bedlah for sale there, nor have I seen anyone here wearing them, but we've only been back for 1 year and I haven't seen everything yet... I think it's mostly Westerners, Egyptians, Lebanese, maybe some dancers in Damascus who wear them, or am I wrong?

Anyways, if anyone has any experience shopping on this side of the world ;) Where would you look?

....

Economically, your best guess may be a used costume from the Bhuz swap meet. You will have more of an initial investment, but on the flipside, you can typically sell a quality costume for close to what you paid. And, you'll have something that looks and work a lot better and does not come from a sweat shop (which is a whole n'other can of worms). Share pictures once you find something!

All the china made costumes use a size B street bra, so I wouldn't get one unless you are size A or B.

Woah! Even if they say "C cup"

Yes, even if they say C. The other thing is that they are simply decorated lingerie bras as opposed to real costume bras. Not worth it!

If you don't want to buy second hand and can't get to the Khan in Cairo, you may want to check out some of the vendors such as Dahlal and Belly Dance Store for their basics or lower priced costumes. Many times they are a good deal.

{{{HUGS}}}

Originally Posted by UmEnis

So, I want to buy a real stage bedlah, or a reproduction that looks like one at least. Now, I actually happen to live in the Middle East, but still don't know where to start.

Anyways, if anyone has any experience shopping on this side of the world ;) Where would you look?

Can you get to Cairo? If so, go to the Khan al-Khalili and look for a shop called al-Wikala operated by Mahmoud Abdel Ghaffar. He has some nice starter costume choices.

Definitly check out the swap meet here as many of the gals here have sweet stuff!