I love versatile patterns that allow me to create many different styles of garments. Would you be surprised if I told you these skirts were all made out of the same set of patterns? This is how I created each one š 1. The Goddess Skirt I show how to make this golden mermaid skirt called Goddess Skirt in my… Read more →
Earlier this year, I shared my Plus Size Belly Dance Costuming Guide which became a very popular post on Sparkly Belly. š One of the tips I included there was what I call the āBelly Drapeā – Itās a design created with fabric that drapes from the bra and provides light coverage over the top of your torso. Itās really easy… Read more →
A few months ago I did a review on Swarovskiās shimmer effect rhinestone series, which was initially introduced to me by Alisa at Har-Man Importing. And last month, she sent me another new line of rhinestones, called Star Bright. Thanks, Alisa! Sign up for the free course & start making costumes! Star Bright is an Austrian Crystal collection, and Har-Man… Read more →
Have you seen gathered fabrics used to decorate dance costumes or formal dresses? That might be pleating or ruching. Both of them add colours, textures and such elegance to costumes and dresses, and it can be an easy way to decorate your costumes. But it can be tricky to create the look, especially when youāre working with… Read more →
In my last post, we measured and cut out all panels we need to sew this DIY baladi dress with a mandarin collar and placket. I love when all the panels are cut and waiting for me to sew them together. š Letās get started! Click here to make your own Dina Bra! š DIY Baladi Dress with mandarin collar &… Read more →
I picked up super cute spandex fabric when I visited the garment district in NYC last year with Mahin, and I knew I had to make a playful baladi dress out of it. I did a baladi dress tutorial before with a keyhole neckline, but this time I wanted to make one to pair with a Dina style bra. So… Read more →
Since I launched my latest costume making course, Aurora Convertible Skirt Premium Course, I received questions about what to wear under this type of skirt that has cutouts. Click the image to check out how to make this skirt! Generally, you can either wear nude colour underwear that doesnāt show, or some dancers wear boy shorts in nude colour. For… Read more →
Some tools can make a world of difference š Today I want to share with you 3 of my favourite sewing tools that made a world of difference to my costume making. After I met these tools, costume making has become easier, faster and more fun! š If you are looking to upgrade your sewing tools, I highly recommend these. Iāll include… Read more →
I like belly dance costumes that have decorations sewn onto the skirt. š For this type of skirt, you donāt have to wear a separate belt, which can be more comfortable for some of you. At least for me – less opportunity for costume malfunction š But how do you sew decorations to the stretch waistband of… Read more →
Iām not a big fan of belly dance costumes that are any more naked than they already are, but sometimes that ānakedā design details on costumes can be visually interesting and also create beautiful lines. And when I say ānakedā, I mean those cut outs that show your skin or details that mimic the colour of your skin.… Read more →