Costume Design Analysis

Design is a process that often begins with the spark of inspiration. That inspiration could be a flower, a painting, a vintage photograph, or simply another favorite dancer that you admire and love. This is slide number 4 of 60 from my upcoming talk, “The Design Gode” hosted by Mahin.  If you find this slide intriguing, why not join us for this deep dive into how to “Think Like a Designer.”

Over my years of teaching, I’ve developed a five approach to talking about costuming which serves as a great step-by-step checklist through an analysis of a dancer’s overall style.  But, let’s take a moment to admire Juliana’s look on the left, and work through these five layers.

1 – Body – Juliana has decided to emphasize her voluptuous curves with a demi-cut bra and low-slung belt.  Making the belt as low as possible means her torso looks extra long. (And putting up your arms in a photo further lifts the chest to enhance that length.)

2 – Grooming – This photo dates from the 70s / early ’80s and features many “Show-girl” style makeup details that one would see in a Vegas-style show.  Notice the shape of her eyeliner, eyebrows, and false lashes, the over-lined lips, and long false nails.

3 – Costume – During the 1970s, the “metal bikini” look in belly dance costumes was quite popular and used by many dancers across the US.  In Juliana’s costume, she’s elevated the style to resemble a disco ball by using tiny mirrored squares.

There is so much more to talk about such as the shapes of the costume pieces. There’s the whisp of a skirt, the shape of her belt, the choice of pink, and her jewelry styling. To find out more about the “5 Layers,” and many more strategies on how to think like a designer, come to my next talk!