So you have the perfect outfit…and you want to accentuate it with something that truly brings the ensemble together. You need jewelry! Jewels, rings, necklaces, bracelets in just the right amount at just the right price.

Adorning oneself with eye catching pieces of silver and gold has been a long tradition in the Middle East and Africa. Gold is (and has been for many years) in abundance in these adjacent regions of the world. Silver has now gained popularity as being one of the most exciting and accessible styles to wear. Women and men have a history of wearing stunning pieces that reflect their personalities and in some cases their names. Who can forget the first time they saw their name written in Arabic script as it dangled just shy of a shirt colar or blouse…its exciting and a nice keepsake to cherish for life.

Jewelry is a must for all celebrations, weddings, haflas and any other event where family and friends get together to honour an occasion. And for many dancers jewelry is as important as performing the dance itself. Popular items for dancers are bracelets and belts. Because the veil is often worn off the shoulders it can get caught in an elaborate necklace or big earrings. So many will rely on adorning the arms and wrists as they show off their craft.

 For those that are in set costume or doing a piece that doesn’t require draping and handling a veil necklace and earring sets are paired with the bracelet and garments to compliment their overall look. Many folk raqs bellydance artists will often wear a belt with their ensembles to accentuate hip movements or draw attention to the waist. In some cases each member of the troupe will wear a belt or some sort of matching set to provide uniformity and help bring attention to certain dance moves the troupe does as whole.

 Jewelry doesn’t have to be saved for big events and special times. It should be and is often worn to provide a sense of identity to oneself. In some cultures women wore ornaments in the forms of anklets and cuffs so that their families and friends could identify them if in public with the veil. Young ladies all over the world continue to find jewelry as a exciting addition to their wardrobe and cherish new pieces given by friends or as gifts.

Some of the world’s most adorned dancers come from Southeast Asia. Dancers in this region are known to have some of the most gorgeous and elaborate pieces that are assembled with their costumes. This picture is from iloveindia.com. Check them out and learn more about South Asian dance art.

Are you a jewelry fanatic? Do you love to get dressed up and go out with friends for shows or put on shows yourself? Tell us about it! Or send us a picture on our facebook page. Thanks for reading. Follow us on twitter via @missbellydance