Belly dance costumes vary according to discipline and venue. For instance, a club dancer will wear a very different costume than a historical reenactment dancer. The focus, however, is always on emphasizing the curves and beauty of the belly dancer's form. To bring attention to the bust, use coins, charms and beads on the bra or breast covering. Slight hips and legs become more voluptuous with gauzy harem pants or a very full skirt accented with extra veils in the waistband. Finally, accent the arms with bracelets and snake armbands for extra sensuality.
Ballet costumes for a classical repertoire are often passed down through companies, and don't change much. However, the tutu is getting new life through bolder coloring and interesting bodice variations. To change the old tutu, try changing the mood of the costume from gamine femininity to an edgy Gothic look with black or red colors, a laced-up bodice and metal pyramid spikes. For more modern dancers, drop the tutu altogether and hit the trendy stores for a simple baby doll or wrap dress. Remember to reinforce closure with snaps or hooks to prevent wardrobe malfunctions, and don't forget a matching brief or leotard.
Competitive ballroom dancers are rated on the viability of their costumes, and can be marked down for straps that slip, or a bodice that gapes. Because of this, it can be hard to purchase something off the rack for costume use. However, adult lingerie shops may offer some great starting points for costumes. These stores often have strappy bodysuits and full-body stockings that look great layered underneath other costume components. These pieces may be incorporated into a larger costume, or modified by a trained seamstress. These vendors also sell interesting gauntlets and gloves for far less than ballroom dance stores. For socials, inexpensive junior trend shops often have cute cocktail dresses with interesting asymmetrical hemlines and pretty fabrics for inexpensive prices. It's also possible to find crop tops and flared skirts for both practice and social dance events.