What is Gothic Belly Dance - The Complete FAQ

Costuming Elements

What makes a costume goth? Does it have to be black? To those not familiar with the Goth community, one could say there are many "types" of Goths, which does allow for variety in costuming; yet no matter the nuances between a "Cybergoth" and a "Graver," there tends to be something that just exudes Goth which pulls it all together visually . That something could be akin to the notion of duende, that it's a spirit-like element, or simply no matter the parts used, there's an overall look that's accomplished. No matter what it is, read on for some key costuming elements found in Gothic Belly Dance:

-fishnetting and lace: whether it's a bodysuit, gloves, stockings, small weave or open work, fishnetting and/or lace tends to play a big part in the dancer's costume.
-black: although a costume doesn't need to be entirely black to be goth, generally black is the base for the costume. Common accent colors: reds, wines, purples, metallics
-make-up: while standard belly dance make-up generally stays within the realm of "stage" make-up---normal evening-out make-up made extreme to stand up to the intensity of show lights and dark atmosphere, Gothic make-up tends to be more whimsical and artistic in nature, especially when it comes to the eyes and lips. Pallor of the skin depends on your natural skin-tone---in contrast to the popular stereotype of the white, deathly pale Goth, Goths come in all colors--so whatever best accents your natural color.
-metal: chain maille, bells, link fringe, spikes/punk accents, and also, a touch of the exotic, some dancers prefer to use antique jewelry from India and other tribal localities. (thanks Aradia!)
-art/history-based:Goth has many historic costuming influences, so you may find one costume that leans toward the 1920's, another that's more Medieval, and another that's pure Punk--wherever there is dramatic/romantic human expression in art and word, Goth has had its way with it!
-fabrics: costumes made from lace, vinyl, latex, PVC, leather, Assuit, velvets, gauze, sari, imported textiles, and heavy satins
-hair: Artistic hair is a big thing for Goths, both male and female. Unusual colors and cuts, fake hair in a variety of materials, hair adornments, and more.


	Costuming Elements What makes a costume goth? Does it have to be black? To those not familiar with the Goth community, one could say there are many "types" of Goths, which does allow for variety in costuming; yet no matter the nuances between a "Cybergoth" and a "Graver," there tends to be something that just exudes Goth which pulls it all together visually . That something could be akin to the notion of duende, that it's a spirit-like element, or simply no matter the parts used, there's an overall look that's accomplished. No matter what it is, read on for some key costuming elements found in Gothic Belly Dance: -fishnetting and lace: whether it's a bodysuit, gloves, stockings, small weave or open work, fishnetting and/or lace tends to play a big part in the dancer's costume. -black: although a costume doesn't need to be entirely black to be goth, generally black is the base for the costume. Common accent colors: reds, wines, purples, metallics -make-up: while standard belly dance make-up generally stays within the realm of "stage" make-up---normal evening-out make-up made extreme to stand up to the intensity of show lights and dark atmosphere, Gothic make-up tends to be more whimsical and artistic in nature, especially when it comes to the eyes and lips. Pallor of the skin depends on your natural skin-tone---in contrast to the popular stereotype of the white, deathly pale Goth, Goths come in all colors--so whatever best accents your natural color. -metal: chain maille, bells, link fringe, spikes/punk accents, and also, a touch of the exotic, some dancers prefer to use antique jewelry from India and other tribal localities. (thanks Aradia!) -art/history-based:Goth has many historic costuming influences, so you may find one costume that leans toward the 1920's, another that's more Medieval, and another that's pure Punk--wherever there is dramatic/romantic human expression in art and word, Goth has had its way with it! -fabrics: costumes made from lace, vinyl, latex, PVC, leather, Assuit, velvets, gauze, sari, imported textiles, and heavy satins -hair: Artistic hair is a big thing for Goths, both male and female. Unusual colors and cuts, fake hair in a variety of materials, hair adornments, and more.
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