Middle Eastern dance, traditionally known as Raqs sharqi or Raqs baladi is popularly called belly dance in the western countries. Today belly dance is a common and famous form of entertainment in countries like Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt and America. Belly dancers generally combine three forms of dancing technique in their presentation, folk dance, classical and cabaret dance. It is mainly for entertaining in visitors in night clubs and parties. Turkey is a place for expert and vivacious belly dancers.
The costumes of dancers vary from place to place. The music, technique, expression and essence of belly dance are regionally distinct and the proper costuming complements them. Turkish belly dance costume combines bra, belt and a skirt. Dancers use a number of accessories that include necklace, headband, wrist or arm cuffs. Sometimes unattached sleeves with main costume and veil are also used. In the most common forms of Turkish belly dance costumes 6 to 8 inches beaded fringe are attached with the bra. The fabrics commonly used in belly dance costumes are polyester and chiffon blend. Flowing abstract design with shells, diamonds are very popular in Turkish costumes. Designer costumes are often decorated with glass stones in combination with fabric, sequins, and seed beads.
In Egypt the dancers are commonly dressed in a gown or in a bra and skirt with hip accentuations attached to it. Egyptian dancers adorn headband, arm cuffs, fitting sleeves, and a veil as accessories with costumes. However, in a country like Egypt oriental dancers are prohibited from flaunt their bare midriff. A body stocking generally made from mesh with two piece sets is commonly adorned by them. The styling of the belt is very distinct from those used in other countries. While the front part of the belt is rectangular in shape, the back is in a half circle cupping the buttock. The skirt is generally stitched with different types of sequined motifs. Peacock motif is very among Egyptian belly dance costumes.
The American costume is very interesting and distinct from other Islamic countries. The costume in America is mostly influenced by Latin and tribal cultures. The basic components of American costumes are coined bra, multi-tiered skirt, choli top, pantaloons and scarves. The accessories that add the real essence to the costumes are turban, mazouna ropes, shisa mirrors and Kuchi jewelry. Many decorative braids are often used in the costume. In recent times, American dance costumes blend Afghani, Pakistani and Indian flavors. However, the basic components like bra, skirt, pants, scarves, and veil and head ornamentation vary in different regions in America. Headband in metal colors like brass, nickel, gold, and copper with fringe graces the head of the dancers. Several layers of skirts are a unique feature of American dance costumes. Rings, arm and ankle bracelets with antique or polished metallic finish are very popular.
The costumes are nowadays changing in a big way keeping the traditional basics intact. The designer belly dance costumes are now available in different vibrant colors. Silver, gold, copper, red, pink, purple, green, turquoise, blue, lavender and orange are among some common colors. Designer velvet costumes are now very popular among high rated and stylish dancers. However, belly dancing is now common in countries like India and Dubai. In casino culture it has already made a mark in Las Vegas, Macau or Nepal.
