Help me please

[The Moon Lady]

My Harlequin is really the steam punk fanatic in our household.  I'm more Mata Hari.  (I'm a bellydancer, and that's my new favorite costuming theme, and I can go anywhere from a tribal look (as in desert tribe) to cabaret, to gothic bellydance.

However, I'd like to put together a few outfits so that when he's doing steam punk, I can go along for the ride.  (I'm thinking I'm NEVER EVER going to get him into a Sheik's harem pants, though)

I have two three questions:
1) Can you folks post some pictures of women in steam punk gear?  I've been through some of the forums and found about 3 photos that have appealing elements, but I need more references if I'm going to hit the thrift shops and do myself any justice.

2) Is there a way to combine steam punk and bellydance garb?  Can a Syrian dancer and a tea drinking gent ever really go out together?

3) Where do I get myself some kick ass goggles for really really cheap (we're totally broke)?  I went on a motorcycle ride once without and once with goggles and I was sold. 

Here is my Harlequin, offered in fine fashion:
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/?action-view&current=DCP00744.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/?action-view&current=DCP00743.jpg

Here's me, in *MY* natural style: (I know, I know.  I suck as far as steam punk, but I provide these for an idea of what elements I might already have in my closet)
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/?action-view&current=DCP00879.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/?action-view&current=DCP00729.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/?action-view&current=RehersalBelly15.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/?action-view&current=ITEM0007.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/?action-view&current=IMG012.jpg
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/?action-view&current=WalkForHomeless2007.jpg

And just for the hell of it, us together:
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/?action-view&current=AliceHatter.jpg

Note: I can't seem to figure out how to imbed photos.  I'd appreciate someone telling me how, and seeing imbedded, because then they're all in one place.  (Not too demanding, or anything, no I'm not.)

[S.Sprocket]

I know know if you're familiar with Shoutfit, it's a clothing centric community thing like myspace, but for fashionistas..

http://www.shoutfit.com/people/Veen

that is the profile of Miss Magdalene Veen, female vocalist for abney park (http://www.abneypark.com)

She is the only steampunk I know who is deeply into a bellydancing style mixed with steampunk, as that is what she performs for her shows.

Perhaps contacting her would yield some results you're looking for?

[Dr. Tobias Archer]

Speaking as a steampunk enthusiast who happens to be married to a bellydancer, I must emphatically state that I not only believe that the two styles can be combines, but rather that absolutely must be combined!  Further, I would ask that you share images of the results of such experimentation for review and approval by the community . . . and for my own personal amusement.

Also, it seems that your aether-albums are password protected, and not viewable by the public.

[The Moon Lady]

Oh dear.  I thought if I directed them, they would be open.  Is there a way to post them here?

Ah, a test then:
My snake:
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/AnathAug3106b.jpg">
Note carefully that the second word starts with a "B," not an "F"
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/TshirtAB.jpg">

If this works, I shall go back and diligently re-dig out and present the previous images. 

[Saphyra]

Holey Buckets S. Sprocket, that Shoutfit site will prove to be invaluable to me. Thank you.

To the Fabrik Emporium! Oh poo, I must wait for pay day. I'll just sit over here in my corner and doodle til then.

[The Moon Lady]

Very good then:

Dr. Archer, I present you with visual representations of our Steam Punk/Bellydancer love. 

My Harlequin:
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/DCP00743.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/DCP00744.jpg">

Bellydancer Goodness:
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/DCP00879.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/IMG012.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/WalkForHomeless2007.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/ITEM0007.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/RehersalBelly15.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Belly/IMG014.jpg">

Not So Dancer Goodness:
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/MMatrix.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/DCP00729.jpg">
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/WorkBootPirate.jpg">

Alice and Mad Hatter Goodness
<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/MissSeline/Costumes/AliceHatter.jpg">

*bows*

[Dr. Tobias Archer]

Curses, I am foiled again!  Alas, miss, I am still unable to see your photograph.

[The Moon Lady]

I have finally fixed the foible, so you are no longer foiled.  Except for all the interesting things in the tubes of the internet, some days I think I would prefer a typewriter. 

[Dr. Tobias Archer]

Smashing! Lovely pictures, all 'round, miss.  Your gentleman friend has done a splendid job customizing that firearm.  Do you tailor your own dance-wear?

I hope you do not find this remark too forward, considering the intimate nature of such a garment, but might I suggesting the integration of soem form of corsetry into your personal style for a more Victorian look to compliment his steamy style?  Or perhaps a modified notch-lapeled waistcoat that leaves the midriff exposed (scandalous, I know!)?  A simple velvet choker with a tasteful cameo or cog-type embellishment can add a touch of steam to any lady's attire.

I am beginning to wonder if perhaps I spend too much time pondering these matters . . .

[Professor Lidenbrock]

May I respectfully suggest that it is wrong to assume that Steampunk & Bellydancers don't mix.
I would offer the writings of Mr H.Rider Haggard as evidence to the contrary.
http://haggard.thefreelibrary.com/

[The Moon Lady]

Dr. Archer-

I do indeed tailor the majority of my own dance-wear, however I do send overseas to the Realm of the Turks for some few small items, when it is possible.  Especially the coin belts, which are manufactured far more efficiently than I could do it, for less cost.  Unless I have a particular reason to make one.  For example, I am currently working on one which will match the top I'm wearing that goes with the bronze outfit. 

I think that perhaps following the work of Tempest might be along the lines you suggest for incorporating unmentionables. 
http://www.darklydramatic.com/tempest/home.html
http://www.darklydramatic.com/tempest/gallery.html
(I especially like pearl strand 1, 2 from the bottom, and strand 2, 3 from the bottom I would LOVE to see the front,

I also like the following two from Mata Hari, but I was not sure how they would figure into the period:

(LOVE the detailing on that top)


While my dear Harlequin is quite clear on his own personal style, he's been less than helpful on how my style might fit in. 

I like the idea of the waistcoat, but I'm not sure how I'd tailor that.  (A different forum, perhaps)

Profesor Lidenbrock,
I did not mean to imply that it was not feasible, of course.  More to find some alternatives for me, period sensitive, which would appeal to my sense of style.  While I quite enjoy the bellydancer motif, I am by no means wedded to it, so I want to see any number of options which might appeal.   I particularly like the stripped, bussled, corsetted look.  Just a very expensive choice- either in the money spent on procuring it, or in the time spent constructing it.  Sadly, neither are a commodity I currently have available. 

On that note, if there happens to be folks on here who construct clothing and are within several hours travel from the northern Indiana area, I would be pleased to arrange a trade of clothing for an elaborate and uniquely designed cake.  I am a part time hobbiest confectioner:
http://s113.photobucket.com/albums/n209/DarcyCakes/
See "Twisted Cakes" for Cthulu and the Necronomicon in delectable edibles.

[Akael]

You need no alterations of your garb to make it steampunk-compatible - adventure is a part of the very essence of steampunk, and who's to say what you were wearing on that fateful day one of you ran aboard the others airship?

[Prof. George of Chaos]

While I must agree most heartily with Akael's sentiments, being as you mentioned a Turkish styled  belt, might I venture to suggest when you have the time constructing one whose coins are replaced with cogs?
Certain decorative elements from Victorian architecture and typography could also be applied to the general shape of bellydancing outfits to meld the two styles together as well, off the top of my head.

[The Moon Lady]

Professor Chaos,

Indeed, my Harlequin himself has insisted that a cog inspired outfit is a clear requirement for my personal wardrobe.  Where would I obtain 2-300 small cogs (or more), preferably metal so they clink and clatter, for a reasonable price?

[Rosalind Fairchild]

I'd suggest acquiring cogs at a hobby shop, like Hobby Lobby or similar. Many sell little working train models and might be able to hook you up with a bag of replacement cogs and such things.

[Professor Lidenbrock]

Dear Moon Lady, I hope no offence was taken by my comments & assure you none was intended.
I merely intended to convey the idea that the Steampunk ethos is more eclectic than is sometimes acknowledged.
I have started a thread on the anatomical board which consists of links to sites which are not Steampunk but which have a high degree of overlap.
The purpose of this is to provide visual images which might fire the imagination of those interested in costume &/or propmaking.
Perhaps you might encounter something there,which might make you think "I could do that!"
You are more than welcome to try.:-)

[S.Sprocket]

I'd also like to point out that an outfit doesn't need a cog or a pair of goggles to be steampunk, just like you don't need insane boots  for fishnets to be gothic.

[CapnHarlock]

Miss MoonLady,

If you are capable of purchasing for the infamous Aetherbay (eBay), I would suggest searching on "watch (or clock)  movements"

There appear to frequently be bulk lots of old dead timepieces, (full of brass-gear goodness)  that can be scavenged and perhaps, combined with a bit of sewing or mailsmithing for a Steamy effect?

[Enli]

You need no alterations of your garb to make it steampunk-compatible - adventure is a part of the very essence of steampunk, and who's to say what you were wearing on that fateful day one of you ran aboard the others airship?

I agree. However, if you wish to incorporate cogs, you can find cog-esque pieces in the hardware and electrical aisles of major home improvement stores like Lowe's or Home Depot. Instead though, perhaps you could just use more black, brass, brown, red colors in your outfit? Like Sprocket said, you don't always need cogs or goggles to be steampunk.

Oh and by the way, I am desperately jealous of your harlequin's absolutely splendid gun.

[Doctor When]

Can a Syrian dancer and a tea drinking gent ever really go out together?

There must be something in the collective steampunk water, but I too am a steampunk with a bellydancing girlfriend. This, is indisputable proof that yes, it is possible, possibly inevitable!

I am also a big fan of the American Tribal style - if you can't steampunkify Tribal, then I don't know what you can! Some of the more industrial/goth/tribal stuff I've seen really lends itself to some sort of automata simulation.

Huzzah!

[Dr. Tobias Archer]

I am also a big fan of the American Tribal style - if you can't steampunkify Tribal, then I don't know what you can! Some of the more industrial/goth/tribal stuff I've seen really lends itself to some sort of automata simulation.

This reminds me of a conversation that I once had with an associate of mine who is also fortunate enough to be married to an oriental dancer where we discussed an idea that I termed "scrap-yard tribal", where-in all of the coins and shells and what-not were replaced with random bits of scrap, such as nuts, bolts, plumbing parts and the like.  Sadly it went to further than amused speculation, but I should dearly like to see it taken up by some enterprising soul.

[Ethyl Cannes]

I know that this thread has gone somewhat cold, but just in case the OP was still paying attention, I wanted to make certain she saw the following images from Gavin Fernandes (esp. the last 6, which are an, I think, artful blend of Indian and Victoriana...one may even recognize my icon):

http://www.fuk.co.uk/art/exhibition_preview_gavin_fernandes_empire_line_monarchs_of_the_east_end

I too am a dancer, and while I'm not sure I'm ready to try and mix Steampunk and Tribal yet I do have an Indo-Victorian outfit planned for sometime in the near future.

[GypsyGurl]

Moon Lady - I was so excited to see your post...I am a fellow dancer becoming more and more immersed in Steampunk and Neo-Victorian costuming styles.

As the main costumier for my experimental dance duo 'GypsyNoir' I have been gradually integrating more components such as Bustle styled belts, Lace, Vintage Rhinestone pins mixed with Interesting Tribal regalia. Some photos of me in our Neo-Victorian Gypsy costumes are below.




My most recent creation for us is our 'Clockwork Dolly' outfits which involve a pinstriped underbust vest trimmed with red lace (like a Ghawazee vest) worn with out coined bras. Along with matching short pinstripe pleated pinafore mini skirts worn over flared pants and red/black striped tights. I don't have a full length photo yet but here is a profile shot to give you some idea of the headdress elements I like to go with...


As soon as I get a full length photo I will post...
Alot of my inspiration I draw from various Tribal Fusion styled dancers (Rache Brice, Ariellah & Ultra Gypsy) along with  healthy blend of my own love for interesting bits n bobs....

My next project will be to come up with new outfit incoporating Clockwork cogs, Brass washers, more Rhinestone items and a couple of gorgeous Art Nouveau styled belt buckles...

I think the trick is definitely to find the costuming elements that scream loudest to you and you adore and then find a way to link it together wholistically with a character or persona that you feel comfortable in. If Mata Hari is it for you then go for it!

[Vienna Fahrmann]

     Dear GypsyGurl,

     What lovely photos, I like your style combinations very much.

     Vienna

[Ben Hudson, Esq.]

Of course, there would be scandal if a gentleman of high birth was seen in public with a dancing girl... unless of course she was a duchess who had donned the disguise to help distract the attentions of the ferocious sky-pirates who had designs on her gentleman...