Thread: fun summer practice wear

Hello,

I'm looking for some tops and pants/capris to wear to a bunch of workshops I have coming up. I have worn out my extensive collection of cheapo leggings and tank tops and since I spend so much time in the stuff, I figure that something good quality will turn out to be a better deal in the long run.

I have looked at a couple of sites like marika and bali dog, but OMG these prices... Can anyone recommend something that would be a good compromise between 98$ pants and my 12$ leggings?

Or... Failing that, does anyone know about patterns to make the stuff? Online would be best.

Thanks!

I like Marika.com a lot.

I have an instructor account with them, I think I got it because of my yoga certification but if you teach, you could apply for one.. I get 30% off, so really nice pants cost me $35-40 mostly!

Who is the bhuzzer who has been making really cute practice wear? Is it Yazeena?

Originally Posted by dunyah

Who is the bhuzzer who has been making really cute practice wear? Is it Yazeena?

Sophie has!

Originally Posted by kemintiri

I'm looking for some tops and pants/capris to wear to a bunch of workshops I have coming up. I have worn out my extensive collection of cheapo leggings and tank tops and since I spend so much time in the stuff, I figure that something good quality will turn out to be a better deal in the long run.

How about a T-shirt or tank top with a rhinestone design for about $30 + shipping?

This link goes to the page for the one that says "Bellydancer", but if you explore the site you'll find a lot of options:

Belly dancer Rhinestone T Shirt

Ruffle Capris :: Clothing :: Cheeky Girls Productions

I don't own them because I just switched jobs and I have no money- but I'd own at least 3 if I could. I typically wear the Target capri's- which cost 30$- the platinum are more than the others- and I ALWAYS reach for the platinum ones- so I'm willing to spend the exta few dollars- but it would be nice to have a pair a little more dance oriented- so these are definitely on my shopping list.

these folks also carry them- but Michelle's are probably the best as far as price for every day working out for the average/cost conscious dancer.

Desert Dancer Imports -
Ruffled Capri Pants : Desert Dancer Imports, Tribal Belly Dance Costumes

L Rose
L. Rose Designs - Online Catalog

Crimson Gypsy
Ruffled Capri Dance Pants by Crimson Gypsy Designs

Geisha Moth
check ebay/etsy and I guess tribe (I'm not sure how she is running her system these days)

Melodia
Melodia Designs: Organic Cotton/Lycra Ruffle Capri


happy shopping!!!

If you want to try making your own, McCall's 4261 is exercise wear, and you could probably adapt the pants of Simplicity 2067. Otherwise, maybe there's something at Kwik Sew Leotards & Activewear | Kwik Sew Patterns.

I'm a yoga teacher and my most favorite pants are Hard Tail:
Yoga Pants and Yoga Clothing

They're not particularly crazy, but there are some cute designs, and the roll down waist is great for yoga or dancing. They hold up better than any pant I've tried. Retail they're kind of spendy but LondoMondo does have sales pretty frequently, and you can also find them on sale at Nordstrom. Their sports bras are pretty great, too.

I also like the romantic vest top from Shakti Activewear:
romantic vest tops : Shakti Activewear, Hot Yoga Clothes for Men and Women - Hot Yoga, Bikrams Yoga, Pilates, Spin

Cute, right? Looks a little like a choli. Their clothes are designed for hot yoga so they are great when you're sweaty. They also run on the small side so watch out. I've tried the regular vest top, but it's not as supportive.

Hope that helps!

These pants are similar to Suhaila's scrunchy butt pants: Drawstring Leg Dance Pants; Urban Groove

That web site also has a lot of other cute tops and pants for reasonable prices.

Also a variety of intended-for-dance items here: Dancewear | Ballet Shoes - Discount Dance Supply

Originally Posted by Lauren_

I like Marika.com a lot.

I have an instructor account with them, I think I got it because of my yoga certification but if you teach, you could apply for one.. I get 30% off, so really nice pants cost me $35-40 mostly!

Not a teacher yet, sadly no discount for me :)

Originally Posted by beafarhana

Sophie has!

is there a website I can look at of what she makes?

Originally Posted by omchantress

I'm a yoga teacher and my most favorite pants are Hard Tail:
Yoga Pants and Yoga Clothing

They're not particularly crazy, but there are some cute designs, and the roll down waist is great for yoga or dancing. They hold up better than any pant I've tried. Retail they're kind of spendy but LondoMondo does have sales pretty frequently, and you can also find them on sale at Nordstrom. Their sports bras are pretty great, too.

I also like the romantic vest top from Shakti Activewear:
romantic vest tops : Shakti Activewear, Hot Yoga Clothes for Men and Women - Hot Yoga, Bikrams Yoga, Pilates, Spin


Cute, right? Looks a little like a choli. Their clothes are designed for hot yoga so they are great when you're sweaty. They also run on the small side so watch out. I've tried the regular vest top, but it's not as supportive.

Hope that helps!

that top is really cute! (i'll have to see if they have stuff big enough for me )

a couple of retailers like bhuddaful have really cute stuff, but alas too small...

Originally Posted by kemintiri

Not a teacher yet, sadly no discount for me :)

Sophie hasn't got a specific costuming website, as far as I know. Her website is News | Sophie Armoza, but it hasn't got a section on her amazing sewing skills! But she posted her on last month's WAYWO thread:
What are you working on in April 2012?
and I know she's taking custom orders. Get in touch with her, and see what she can suggest!

Fashionforward Handmade ecoapparel by HerbanDevi on Etsy
One of my favorite etsy sellers for unique, light weight gear.

I honestly go with Old Navy cheapo exercise pants most of the time. They hold up just as well as the $90 pants and I can personalize with accessories (hip scarf/belt/rose hip skirt etc) and a nice top. The only reason for me to spend more is if it is either US made, organic or artisan made. I love the unique artisan stuff, but usually keep it to something other than my pants/base layer. More versatile.

Can anybody recommend exercise pants that have good pockets? I prefer to use ones with pockets, but most of the ones I look at don't have them.

Originally Posted by *Shira*

Can anybody recommend exercise pants that have good pockets? I prefer to use ones with pockets, but most of the ones I look at don't have them.

I have a pair by NorthFace from last year with pockets. They change their lines so fast, don't know what they have this year. I get a fair bit of my gear at climbing shops (sporting goods) and there's usually something there with pockets.

Originally Posted by *Shira*

Can anybody recommend exercise pants that have good pockets? I prefer to use ones with pockets, but most of the ones I look at don't have them.

I have a pair of skirted Melodias that have a kangaroo type pocket in the front of the skirt.

To give you some variety of a different sort, what about your usual capris but wear thigh high leg warmers over them? I can't be the only one here who wears them, right? I buy from www.discountdancesupply.com

For tops, I've been going to Rue 21 and a couple of other cheapie places and buying their sequin tank tops. They're too glitzy for my personal tastes out in the general public, but they add a bit of flash to the workout studio.

I practically live in my L. Rose workout gear and swear by it. The draped bloomers are my favorites. For me with heavy wear and tear, meaning weekly wear all year plus weekly laundering in not so great water a pair of bloomers lasts around two years before the inner thigh seam finally gives out. (that's where all my dance pants give at some point or another :P) Of all the gear I've tried, unitards, various pants/leggings and what not they are by far the best value for me.

I get Sampants from Kathleen Crowley (shes on FB and etsy) I've always emailed her because she makes them to order! (there around $60-70 each but well worth it!!)

Originally Posted by Lara L

Fashionforward Handmade ecoapparel by HerbanDevi on Etsy
One of my favorite etsy sellers for unique, light weight gear.

I have a pair of her pants and there lovely, but her communication leaves a lot to be desired when something goes wrong (my experiance is in the Vendor/Buyer Concerns of you want to know more)

Hi there,

I am selling this on the swapmeet:

http://www.bhuz.com/bellydance-swap-...top-pants.html

Maybe it can meet your requirements!

Originally Posted by Lara L

Fashionforward Handmade ecoapparel by HerbanDevi on Etsy
One of my favorite etsy sellers for unique, light weight gear.

I honestly go with Old Navy cheapo exercise pants most of the time. They hold up just as well as the $90 pants and I can personalize with accessories (hip scarf/belt/rose hip skirt etc) and a nice top. The only reason for me to spend more is if it is either US made, organic or artisan made. I love the unique artisan stuff, but usually keep it to something other than my pants/base layer. More versatile.

I definitely second the Old Navy yoga pants. They even have capris and I have a few that have pockets. Mine frequently get worn during the winter time as a layer under skirts like leggings. Full disclosure: I do work there, but I don't get anything special and fun for mentioning it/promoting. However, a huge portion of my wardrobe does come from ON, particularly since my day job can get messy (I work with special needs kids on a 1 to 1 basis) and I don't want to wreck up anything nice. I also like the tank tops either the ribbed or smooth ones to go to dance in if I'm not in a choli mood. (Four hours after work and I'm still in a customer service mood - argh )

Originally Posted by Sithraviel

I have a pair of her pants and there lovely, but her communication leaves a lot to be desired when something goes wrong (my experiance is in the Vendor/Buyer Concerns of you want to know more)

so sorry to hear that! I guess I've been lucky so far.

Found it! It's Bhuzzer Melanie, really cute things:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/MOD-M...03995076352818

Originally Posted by allanorah

I definitely second the Old Navy yoga pants. They even have capris and I have a few that have pockets. Mine frequently get worn during the winter time as a layer under skirts like leggings. Full disclosure: I do work there, but I don't get anything special and fun for mentioning it/promoting. However, a huge portion of my wardrobe does come from ON, particularly since my day job can get messy (I work with special needs kids on a 1 to 1 basis) and I don't want to wreck up anything nice. I also like the tank tops either the ribbed or smooth ones to go to dance in if I'm not in a choli mood. (Four hours after work and I'm still in a customer service mood - argh )

I bought a few pairs because I thought I liked them...

turns out I hate them. they are ALWAYS to short for me (I'm 5'8" with a 30 something inseam) and I hate the way the crotch fits- it bunches uncomfortably and very unattractively.

I stick with super fitted capris- from say Target- love my Platinum ones.... or actual dance pants made for typically bellydancers (although I'm not afraid to venture outside the circle into regular dance- I just prefer the ones that are cut to fit full bodied women who have ahem... thick- well proportioned legs....as mine wear out in the inseam/thigh as well. huzzah for well built!

I have had some for sale in my Etsy shop, and I wear this style quite a bit during practice.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/9649272...ydance-workout

Unfortunately this pair has been spoken for, but I'm happy to do this style in other sizes and colors/fabrics. I'll have stretch velvet tops soon too, as well as tie front tops. All easily washable and made of breathable cotton blends.

Originally Posted by Tourbeau

If you want to try making your own, McCall's 4261 is exercise wear, and you could probably adapt the pants of Simplicity 2067. Otherwise, maybe there's something at Kwik Sew Leotards & Activewear | Kwik Sew Patterns.

I've also heard good things about Jalie patterns.

Originally Posted by Basha

I bought a few pairs because I thought I liked them...

turns out I hate them. they are ALWAYS to short for me (I'm 5'8" with a 30 something inseam) and I hate the way the crotch fits- it bunches uncomfortably and very unattractively.

I stick with super fitted capris- from say Target- love my Platinum ones.... or actual dance pants made for typically bellydancers (although I'm not afraid to venture outside the circle into regular dance- I just prefer the ones that are cut to fit full bodied women who have ahem... thick- well proportioned legs....as mine wear out in the inseam/thigh as well. huzzah for well built!

I totally get that...They typically stay for exercise or dance due to the fact that I tear up the bottoms (I'm on the opposite end of the spectrum being a mere 5'2 with short little legs). I got a pair from Target before when I worked for them and they've held up well. I also converted them into "capris." To each their own, right? As long as we can all find something that works for covering up the booty.

Heh, should we all be posting our measurements when we give recommendations? Maybe I like old navy because I don't have to cut off 5 inches at the hem for my short, skinny self!

Originally Posted by allanorah

I totally get that...They typically stay for exercise or dance due to the fact that I tear up the bottoms (I'm on the opposite end of the spectrum being a mere 5'2 with short little legs). I got a pair from Target before when I worked for them and they've held up well. I also converted them into "capris." To each their own, right? As long as we can all find something that works for covering up the booty.

LOL
actually I sacrificed my Old Navy ones for bloomer experimenting- and I figured out how to create decent fitted capris from semi-ill fitting regular yoga pants.

yeah I either run into way to short (I HATE having pants that just touch the top of my foot- when I'm flat- they should be flat- with a little bit of a blouse- so when I'm on my toes there isn't a weird gap... I'm VERY visual so I find it incredibly distracting)- or I find the crotch/butt issue is HUGE and it pulls in a very unflattering manner across my whoha regions. yuck- no one wants to see what- and again I'm visual so if I notice it- its going to bother me the whole time and then I feel like I can't dance because well I am ugly and my lines are awful and I just suck. Its a wicked cycle. LOL- so I'm VERY picky with the pants- but I found toooooo short but Okay fit = fitted capris with minimal effort. YAY ME!!!

but for everything else- I just shell out the extra 15-25$ for real dance pants- they look cuter- give me a greater feel and self confidence and hold up well. And they look great over a pair of tall boots for going out if I need too. and can easily double for funky performance.

Originally Posted by Lara L

Heh, should we all be posting our measurements when we give recommendations? Maybe I like old navy because I don't have to cut off 5 inches at the hem for my short, skinny self!

I suppose you can- but it isn't required- just gives a frame of reference for someone. I'm pretty stout at 170- but I carry the bulk in my butt and thighs.... so it makes pant fitting an issue but helps people put an idea on why they don't work for me. You don't need to if you don't want! :)

I have had some for sale in my Etsy shop, and I wear this style quite a bit during practice.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/9649272...ydance-workout

Unfortunately this pair has been spoken for, but I'm happy to do this style in other sizes and colors/fabrics. I'll have stretch velvet tops soon too, as well as tie front tops. All easily washable and made of breathable cotton blends.

DO WANT!!!!!

I wear a melodia triangle tie top over my fitted capris for a look just like that. ZOMG. Love love love!!!!

I would love a pair of red ones!!! or turqouise! :D we need to talk!