Another Maharaja Costume

Since we’re talking Majaraja costumes, I thought I’d share one I made for myself a few years ago. (oh, no, I just checked and it was in 2008…that was a long time ago already!!)

The Friday night theme at Camp Hollywood was Maharaja — Chris wore a tuxedo (inspired by Hal), and I made a “1940’s does Arabian Nights” playsuit – you know, like how all the costumes in period movies of the 30’s & 40’s look more like contemporary fashions with only a slight nod to the past. That’s what I was going for.

Again, this is a rayon fabric for good swish. The skirt is a long panel that’s gathered with box pleats into the waistband, and I put butterfly sleeves on the top for ease of movement.

These photos are from the Amateur Balboa contest – we got first place that year. It was also probably the best hair day of my entire life, and I like to think that had a little to do with winning. 😉

Maharaja Costume

A few months ago, Balboa & Lindy Hop champion Laura Keat contacted me to ask if I would be interested in making a costume for a new routine she was working on. As a rule I don’t sew for other people (I don’t even hem […]

Read more

Jitterbug Jewelry

I was messing around with searching LIFE Magazine via Google the other night and found these photos and little letter about “Jitterbug Jewelry” – rhinestone encrusted brooches of dancing instruments. I would die if I found a set of these! Just too too cute. And […]

Read more

Back on Track

I’m alive! I’ve never been the most frequent blogger, but the last few months have been particularly slow. I don’t usually talk about very personal things here, but things have been a little tough for me since last fall, both personally and professionally. Family illness, […]

Read more

Dancing at Carnation Plaza – Disneyland

Last Saturday we went to Disneyland – this was a bittersweet event because it was the last night of swing dancing at Carnation Plaza. They’ve had live music and swing dancing there since the late 50’s, with top name acts performing like Louis Armstrong, Gene […]

Read more

The Rendezvous Cup

I have a confession to make. I like dancing more than I like blogging. 🙂 At costume events, there’s always a lot of time for picture taking (which is at least 50% the reason for going. The other 50% is eating tea and cookies). But at […]

Read more