[ssipes]

Cheap costumes like this one can be workable, but you should be aware of the downside.

1. First, as others have mentioned, the fringe is too long on the bra -- I'd just take it all off. Usually all you have to do is open the stitching between the br and its lining, and you can access the fringe, which should all be sewn on a base thread and which should be basted onto the bra separate from everything else. Take it off and then baste the lining shut again.

2. The skirts of these kinds of costumes are hardly ever adequate. You will probably have to wear a matching skirt underneath. Or use the veil that comes with it to make pantaloons or another skirt layer for underneath.

3. Harder to deal with are the fitting issues. The bra cups of these cheaper bras do not fit as well and tend to not be as flattering as those of better costumes. THey may require more adjustments to fit, or you may find you just can't make them fit your body. I think alot of new dancers underestimate the importance of proper fit.

4. Likewise the belts of cheaper costumes tend to not be well-shaped for the female form. The belt may lack darts and shaping to allow it to mold to your butt and hips without giving plumber's crack or other big gaps. Again this can be fixed but it requires courage to perform surgery on the belt, and some sewing skills.

sedonia