The
Gilded Serpent presents
Davina's "Tribal
Style Made Easy"
A book review
by Jay
Bangle
From Turban to Toe Ring, by Dawn
Devine Brown and Barry Brown, is a costume book
dedicated to the 'tribal' style, which it defines as
a composite look created
from traditional textiles and jewelry pieces produced in countries
that have been touched by Islam but come from small social groups
living nomadic, rural or tribal lifestyles that pull from more
ancient traditions.
As implied by the title, this
book attempts to help tribal-style dancers dress themselves correctly
and elegantly within these parameters. Happily, From
Turban to Toe Ring fulfills
and even surpasses these expectations.
First off, the book is well
thought out. Its covers bound in a convenient spiral format that
allows for on-the-fly reference. The material within those
covers proves surprisingly comprehensive, offering much to both the
novice dancer and/or seamstress as well as the seasoned veteran of
both disciplines. Each costuming concept is elucidated by clear,
helpful illustrations. The book gives useful tips on the purchase
of traditional jewelry and textiles as well, and aids the dancer
in the sometimes tricky task of combining disparate pieces into a
polished whole. It even includes instructions on the care of traditional
textiles. The appendix boasts a wonderful reference section,
and an interesting explanation of the methodology used in creating
the book.
All in all, I felt that this
is a marvelous addition to any dancer's collection, and a "must
have" for the beginner interested in 'tribal' style costuming.
From Turban to Toe Ring,
by Dawn Devine Brown and Barry Brown. Published by Ibexa Press, 2000.
ISBN 0-9678170-1-3.
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