Thread: Tribal costuming questions =)

Hi =)

Im new to Tribal, so I have a lot of questions regarding costuming. Tried to search for old threads, but didnt find any

I want to make a tribal fusion costume for a friend (surprise), but I have no idea what to incorporate.

I dont want to make any "cultural" mistakes.

I just bought a beautiful bra from Nicole here on Bhuz. I think some of the beads are made from wood, metal, and bone. It has a "eathy feel", and I love the sound of all the different beads and bells! =)

Is it ok to use bone and teeth for an example? Does it have a "deeper meaning"?

what about coins? Is there a special type of coin I should use?

There is so many different things out there, "kuchi"(?), afghan, pakistani, "indian", tassels, and beads, coins, shells..

Im lost..

I dont want to make a "ATS" style costume, with tassels, colorful beads and "yarn".

I know Im totally clueless. But I really just want to do this right.

I have the feeling that many tribal fusion dancers has "collected" their costume and jewelery pieces themselves. Like "this bracelet is pakistani".

Is that a big part of making a costume, collecting the pieces yourselves?

Please have mercy on me..

I addition to beeing cluelees, Im terrible at explaining this in english.

I have an idea of how I want the costume, I just want some "backround studies" and knowledge.

Your friend is very lucky to have you! And I think you explained what you're trying to do perfectly well.

IMHO, tribal costuming seems to be very open to personal interpretation and style. Even the beautiful ATS ladies, while all wear similar costumes, no troupe member will be wearing exactly the same outfit and accessories. So whatever you create for your friend, I don't believe you can go wrong.

I don't sew myself, but am sure many bhuzzers will chime in with helpful hints and material-buying resources. I have seen ready-to-sew-on real coins, fringe, kuchi pendants and pieces, shells, appliques, etc. on Ebay and many Tribal online stores sell costuming supplies. The Costume Goddess has a book you may be interested in, Tribal Vibes:

http://www.costumegoddess.com/books/tribal.htm
(this may also answer your question about cultural issues)

Have fun!
(and please post a picture a picture of your creation after you've surprised your friend!!)

I'm a collector. I like unusual things, and find my bits in antique stores, jewelery bargain bins, and the home decor section in the department stores! For nice bits and textiles check out the Red Camel. http://www.redcamel.net/ Deb is wonderful lady with lovely pieces.

I try to stay away from obvious religious items or symbols, and I don't like bones, but other than that... go for it!

Personal touches are good ideas... I have old house keys on a belt, and handmade copper swirls on another. I also adore old buttons... Just ideas!!

Oh, thank you so much! =)

I asked her what she liked to wear for performances, and it was not quite what I was planning to do! :D Lol!

She likes lace, and simple triangel tops.

In my head, there was a midnight blue satin bra, with a satin hood, with peacock feather "pendants". And a few brass coins, buttons and bells.. :p

Maybe I should just make that one for me, and make her a triangle top, with some lace :p

I have no idea how to make a triangle top, but I will def. check out that book Lily!

Thanks again! =)

BTW, my problem is that I dont really know what is realigious symbols, and not. Like the kuchi pendants, do they have a religious meaning?

I use halterbra's, fancy trims on the edge's. I use paillettes and beads, but also real coins. But not that much as ATS. Look at photo's, make a sketch, lay out your fabric and decoration.
http://www.blacklotusclothing.com/gallery.php This is the gallery from blacklotus, she has a lot of triangle tops, and they are not simple.