"Tribal Costuming from Simplicity"
As written by: Jenee (Designs by Janie)
Can you make a Belly Dance costume using regular patterns? Yes. Do they have to be from the Costume/Halloween section? No Okay that said, let us make a Tribalish/ Tribalretish top and belt out of a Simplicity Costume pattern.
The tie front top and the triangular hip sash were made using this Simplicity pattern. I had to make only a few variations on the pattern to make them danceable.
The hip sash I found to be incredibly long. It was also too long for my fabric. So I narrowed the tie ends as shown above.
I hemmed all sides by turning over about a 1/4" and sewing and then turning 1/4" again and sewing. This fabric doesn't ravel, which is what this type of hemming prevents, but it also gives it a much more finished look. Then I sewed coins on with matching buttonhole thread for strength. They add weight as well as a nice jingle when you dance.
The biggest problem I could see with the top was the pulling up of the shirt, when you raised your arms. Not a good thing. To stop this or at least limit this effect I only attached the sleeve at the top. Above you can see where I marked the sewing portion and then where I pinned in some ease for proper fit and comfort. Then I hemmed both the bottom armhole and the unconnected area of the sleeve.
Here you can see the open arm pit area. This is also an ancient solution to perspiration.
The ties were also very long, so here I tied them in the back. I also edged the bottom edge of the top for fun and the tips of the ties for weight with coins. The coins add sparkle and a lovely jingle sound, but the weight also helps hold down the top.
Ready to dance!!!
