Hello all!
For those who don't want to read my long post, my main question is what are good qualities to look for in a bra to use as a base for a dancing bra? I'm a 36 D, so I don't want to do a chest shimmy and put out more than I bargained for! Any differences on heavily ornamented vs. more plain decorations for practice or to wear under a choli for extra support? Thanks!
Now my longer post!
I'm a sucker for belly dancing, and and even bigger sucker for anything that involves costuming, so I seem to have gotten myself addicted to the look of the fabulously decorated dancing bra and belt sets! I work at a Renaissance festival in the fall, and would love to have a fun belly dancing costume to wear. (And hopefully some moves to back it up by then!) I made a historical turkish inspired costume last year, but it is basically harem pants and a knee length vest coat. I've been losing weight, and want to show off my belly next year! (Not so much right now!) I've been sewing since I was little, and worked for a year in a costume shop at my college, so I'm not too worried about the sewing part, just getting the right materials that will hold up!
My costume idea isn't firm yet, but is revolving around a sari. (Or is saree more correct?) I was thinking of a simple fabric covered bra with some coin decorations, and a matching wrap type choli that helps keep everything in control, and keeps me from getting a really painful sunburn on my shoulders, or helping with warmth when it gets cold. (Gotta love Kansas!) I was thinking of a sari because it is period (more or less), depending on fabric and color, and I could cover up and uncover as I wished. I could also use the pallu as a veil for some warmth or shade when needed. If I don't use the sari all in one piece, I would make a skirt, then use the excess for a veil, same concept, different route. Any decoration will need to be very strong and secure, because I can be there for upwards of 10 hours! It can be over 100F and dusty, or 40F and raining. I also need to be able to launder everything at least once a week, because it will get dirty really fast. I really like the tribal look, but it wouldn't really work for this job, so I'd like to use some of the same inspirations in a toned down way. I would also like a secure bra to practice in!
I was thinking I could make a practice bra to practice sewing and dancing with, and then when I have enough money for materials, start on the real one. I would like to wear a hip scarf or belt, so sort of wondering how to do that gracefully with a full sari.
Any hint, tips, ideas, observations, experiences, and 2 cents welcome!
Thanks so much!
Rachel