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The Style File
It is a pleasure to introduce my latest publication - The
Style File. With more than 50 illustrations jammed into 40 pages,
this little book provides the reader with a handy reference for
identifying a wide variety of Middle Eastern dance costume styles.
Unlike previous books, this booklet provides a vocabulary for
dance costume through illustrations and text.
This project began as an idea that had been rolling around
my head for quite some time. At Shimmyfest 2001, I had an enlightening
and thought provoking conversation with Izora and Madam X. During
the course of our discussion, the core concept for the Style
File was shaped, polished and refined. When I got home, I began
formulating a costume glossary, which in itself, could be turned
into a full sized book! Simplifying the list to include the most
prominant and recognizable styles.
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French cut belt reaches
up from the belt over the hips. A crown and cuffs coordinate.
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The final product, Style file, is a fun little book designed
to identify and define the myriad styles worn by Middle Eastern
dancers today. From high-glam beaded bedlah sets to folkloric
khaftans and Fellahin dresses, this book is a guide to the most
popular costuming looks available today. Accessories, parts and
pieces are all identified and described by the accompanying text.
The drawings, some of my best ever, are detailed and textured
yet clean enough to see all the details. Here are a few samples
of the illustrations from this booklet.
Glamourous bedlah, evening
gown style with opera length lace gloves that match the godet
panels at the hemline.
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Gypsy fusion costume with a
full panel skirt, fitted bra, coin belt and arm poufs.
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Assuit beladi dress worn with a beaded belt. Making a simple loose-fitting
beladi dress from assuit gives shimmer and shine while giving
a folkloric feel.
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Tribal fusion costume
featuring a mirrored choli and a half-skirt created from a small
tiered ghahgrah,
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