What to Wear for Practice?

[Anuran]

I am a practical person and so I think “practical” first when I think about what to wear during bellydance practice, so I wore the same clothes I wear for yoga. Then for a few months I studied under a bellydance instructor who emphasized “dressing up” for class. So in her class I got in the habit of dressing up more- putting on a skirt and wearing jewelry etc. Now I am not much for getting all dolled up, but I made the effort to dress up for this class. I am really shy and I was surprised to find that dressing up- wearing something pretty and adding some jewelry and such during bellydance practice, helps me “feel like a dancer.” As my alter-ego, I find I am a little less self-conscious, a little more confident. Now I like to dress up for bellydance for class, to the surprise of my friends and family!

[Devi]

good for you... do what ever make you feel comfortable and 'like a dancer'.. this is one of the great joys of M.E. dancing..

[Zarifa]

Yes, dressing up is always helpful. The costume puts you in a different place of mind. This is a mind and body dance..... You are right even just adding the jewelry makes you feel better and it helps you find out what might interfere with your dancing and what adds to it. Nice to see you dressing up for class and enjoying yourself.

P.S. Believe it or not I use to be very shy and a tom boy!

[Anuran]

That is hard to believe!

[Devi]

yoga pants and a T or Tank.. but that is because I dance a lot in costume and it preserves them to not wear for practice. Back when I was a baby belly and danced tribal however - i did wear skirts and coin belts to practice.


How many of you know that the coin belt is to help you keep time?

[Anuran]

I am always on the look out for BD clothes, jewelry etc. I find it fun to find unique pieces in unexpected places! Many pieces I buy specifically for BD practice; pieces that are inexpensive, but prettier and more bellydancer looking and feeling than the yoga pants and tops (which I have alot of because I do yoga twice a week).