A Gypsy's work is never done...

Costumes. It's all I seem to think about anymore. Obsess really is more like it. No, not like a halloween costume. Well, I guess you could use it for Halloween. I mean dancer costumes. (Get your mind out of the gutter! I don't mean THAT kind of dancer!!) I mean Ghawazee dancers, belly dancers and the like.

Tassel and coin belt, circle skirts and harem pants, Ghawazee coats and turkish vests; my Muse will not stop!! She is relentless! Since she won't let me get onto any of the other half million projects I had on the go, dance costumes it is. (She alwyas gets her way!)


These are only two of the variations I have come up with. This one ----}
is by far my favorite. The base of the Ghawazee coat is from the Al-Zahra's Coat pattern I mentioned last year in the blog. I didn't like the sleeves on it, so I invented my own! They feature a cut out portion on the upper arm and a flowing section of lined gorgeous fabric draping from above the elbow, creating visual movement when one dances. (Which sadly, I still need to learn how to do!)

The tassel belt is my own design, but the coin belt under is purchased (gasp) and not made by me. I love hand sewing, but that was a little too much even for me. The circle skirt is wide and matches the plaquard of material peeking out on the neckline, and would look awesome with a coin bra. (I'm getting to it, I promise...)

The next one is simple by comparison. Layered over the same skirt and top as the previous costume, this sleeveless variety would be much better suited to summer dancing. It's lightweight, highlights coin bras or under choli's nicely and keeps you cool in cotton. Now if only I could wear it to the grocery store...

**I didn't make the super cool belt with all the charms and coins. That I purchased last year at the local Ukerainian Festival. So very neat!