Kamice Costumes.

Greetings! I am in the process of designing/building a "belly dancer's jacket" (not meaning to sound ill informed, I can't remember what they're called for the life of me!). I was hoping you'd have a suggestion for a pattern or perhaps other expert info to share.

Merry met! Thanks so much for writing. I think what you are looking for is a Ghawazee Coat. Many Tribal Style dancers have adopted this particular costuming bit and you will see it a lot in many historical dance performaces.The Suburban Ghawazee provides an excellent review of one pattern as well as multiple places to purchase it. If you are feeling adventureous Tala al-Hooriya's Website will walk you through how to make your own pattern and The Costume Goddess will show you how to modify an existing dress or jacket pattern into a Ghawazee Coat. Adira sells an adjustable Ghawazee Coat pattern. I also sell a pattern for a modern rendition of the Ghawazee Coat. The current pattern I have for sale is sleeveless but I am working on another that will feature optional sleeves and other customizable bits.

Here are some pics of Ghawazee Coats made from my pattern:

What is your pattern? What do you use? is it printed for sale? Thanks!

Why Yes! My pattern surely is for sale!

If you would like to purchase a Ghawazee Coat Pattern please send $10 via Paypal to

Please be aware that the pattern requires some minor adjusting to get a perfect fit. I strongly recommend that you make a mock up out of an inexpensive fabric before proceeding to anything of value.
The areas that seem to need the most adjusting are in the shoulders and the chest area. I would recommend adding a few inches to the shoulders beyond what the pattern dictates.
The chest cut out area also needs to be adjusted from the original lines on the pattern for a comfortable fit.

Lovely Thalisha