Dear Costume Goddess,
I have a problem with costuming because of my back. Being a plus-sized
goddess-in-training, I have those "lovehandle" back rolls. Currently
I wear a flesh-colored mesh bodystocking which holds everything in,
but how could I take it further, disguise it cleverly and still look
fabulous? --- backfat Betty
ANSWER:
The bra of a two-piece costume DOES emphasize fat across the
back, because of the way the tight midriff band cuts into the flesh
- even on average-sized figures. Solutions to this problem:
Dress
The easiest way to cover the back is by wearing a pretty dress instead
of a two-piece outfit.
This could be a loose beladi style (left) or
a more curvy fitted gown that isn't tight enough to outline rolls
on the torso. The dress could be semi-sheer, but have a stripe or
pattern in the fabric that disguises details, or paillettes or sparkles
that reflect the light and thus disguise details of body shape.
If the dress is a "Ghawazee" style, with a front
that's cut out to show off an ornate bra, it emphasizes a voluptuous
bust without being bare on the sides or back.
Two-piece Costume
If you are set on wearing a two-piece outfit, the back can be camouflaged
a number of ways:
Drapes
Triangular
or rectangular shoulder drapes in a lightweight fabric partially
cover and disguise the shape of those bulges on the outer back while
allowing the upper back to show.
Vest
A "Ghawazee" vest, and this can be very ornate, covers the sides
and back of the bra while allowing the decorated bra cups to show.
Back of the vest could be cut a little longer, or have a keyhole
back. Requires some sewing and fitting skill.
The picture shows an easier "quickie" wraparound
vest that's simply a narrow rectangle of fabric long enough to wrap
around the body several times, as shown, and fastened with a decorative
pin. Instructions: Book #2, Easy Costume for
Bellydancers.
Jacket
A short or long jacket covers both the upper back and upper arms.
Light fringe on the lower edge of the back adds movement and interest.
Short
Top
A short top, either pullover or tie front, in a dressy fabric, beautifully
decorated, and not too tight, is a good solution for a slightly
pudgy figure. The back neckline can be scooped or cut in a plunging
V to show the upper back, but still cover the fattier areas under
the bra. A handkerchief ruffle or circle ruffle on the sleeve can
make it especially pretty.
Cover-up
A "butterfly" coverup (photo left) lightly veils the 
back
and can be worn with or without a keyhole cutout in the upper back.
Use a soft, semi-sheer fabric such as chiffon,
georgette, or metallic knit. A pattern such as the animal print
shown, or a subtle stripe, further blurs the details of body shape.
Scarf
A triangular or rectangular scarf in metallic lace or sparkly chiffon
(with or without coins, pailettes, or other ornaments) can be draped
over the bra and fastened in the back, preferably with a brooch.
It covers the front midriff, and sides of the
back, though not the center. To cover the center back, use a longer
scarf.
Veil
This is the easiest solution: a matching veil can be allowed to
drape over the back. It can be tucked several ways to do this, including
the top of the straps, the midriff band, or the back of the belt.The
back can be partially or completely covered. The ends can hang free
or be tucked into the belt back.
Or, a long veil extending
from the head can fall down over the back as shown.
--- Dina Lydia
