Bellydancing Gifts that "Raq"

For the dancers who love it, bellydancing (sometimes called "raqs sharqi" or "oriental dance") isn't just a pastime, it's a passion. This holiday season or birthday, show the bellydancer in your life you care by remembering that passion. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Bellydancers love: hipscarves!
It's hard to go wrong with a hipscarf. Whether the dancer you have in mind has danced for years or is a total newbie she'll love a beautiful hipscarf to accent her movements during rehearsals.

A few links to try:

White and silver hipscarf with coins from Isis Exchange

Pretty and interesting pink beaded hipscarf from SaftiCraft

Cream peacock hipscarf from Son of the Pharoah

Bellydancers love: bling!
Look around at any bellydance gathering, and you will find no shortage of beads, coins, and other shiny bits and bobs. This is a group that loves to sparkle, jingle, and shine! Help her jinglejangle with the best of 'em by getting her a new "pretty" or two. (Remember, different styles of bellydance also have very different looks, so pay attention to what she's already got. Egyptian, Turkish, and Tribal dancers all have beautiful accessories, but the fashion from one dance style to another can be very different!)

A few links to try:

Crystal Kini Designs

ShimmyShimmy.com

La Reina Goddesswear

Bellydancers love: dvds!
Dancers are a breed of people who just can't ever seem to get enough. Whether it's a class, a workshop, or just a little choreography critique, they love to learn. Bellydancers especially get a lot of mileage out of instructional and performance dvds, watching carefully to improve their own technique. If you're not sure what your dancer's favorites are, try some of these.

A few links to try:

Magical Motion: Bellydancing with Atea and Friends

Tribal Fusions: Exotic Art of Tribal Bellydance

Joyous Laughter Beginning Bellydance

Bellydancers love: the handmade and unique!
If you haven't heard of Etsy yet, get your bookmarking finger ready. Full of beautifully handmade and often one-of-a-kind items, it's a treasure trove for those who have an eye for the beautiful and unique. Just go to the main page and type "belly dance" into the search box, and prepare for your eyes to pop. One word of wisdom, though - make sure you check the seller's feedback rating before you buy to make sure your gift arrives in time for that special holiday or birthday.

One Last Shimmy
For someone who doesn't know the bellydance world, all these products and shops can be a little confusing. As with any other gift giving, remember to pay attention to the recipient's style, preferences, and skill level, and don't be afraid to ask the shopkeeper questions before you buy. Once you see the delighted grin on your favorite dancer's face, the little extra effort will be totally worth it.

Raq on!