Hmmm. I tried posting a message in response before, but it never made it... Here goes again... ;)

So, saying you want to be a bellydancer is similar to saying you want to be a musician... There are so many different ways you could go! Basically, though, there are two main types of belly dancing - Cabaret and Tribal.

Cabaret = more of the flashy, showy, overtly sexy (usually shows a lot more skin), types of outfits. Often has the really pretty, more modern beaded skirts/bras and modern fabrics as part of the outfit, in addition to occasional "old-fashioned" pieces, like coin belts. Cabaret dancers tend to be more likely to flirt directly with the audience, and to have a generally more effusive style. The Cabaret style is very fun, open and spontaneous seeming, even when it is choreographed. This is the style that you will typically see in restaurants and night clubs where the clientele is expected to directly tip the dancers.

Tribal = more of the subtly sexy type of outfits - less skin showing (some tribal styles, almost none), more traditional looking fabrics, and jewelry, coin belts, tassles, etc. and sometimes face veils that aren't meant to come off. Typically, tribal dancers only "flirt" with eye contact and motion, and it is also common for tribal dance to be a story telling - although that is not universally the case. The tribal dance is usually very sultry and sophisticated, and is often choreographed using canes, swords, baskets, etc. as part of the show/story.

Both are breathtaking and beautiful when done well... :)

I have a couple of friends who operate the following website:

www.rockabellydance.com/

If you wanted to get in touch with them for further advice/insight, they would be happy to connect with you. They also sell some really cool clothes, for extremely reasonable prices...

However you decide to proceed -- Good Luck!!! :)

Jade