Melissa recommends...

LOCAL SOURCES

If you are able to find what you need locally, I'd highly recommend being able to see and feel (and smell...this last one is mostly a problem when ordering from eBay!) and try on your item before buying, it will minimize your buyer's remorse.  We are lucky to have some great local shops that support our passion.

My favorites are:

Alaska Dancer Emporium (next to Lucky Monkey under the 5^thAvenue Parking Garage with the sky bridge).  Michelle carries instructional DVDs and cds, costuming, veils, hip scarves, bindis, regular dancewear for class and more.  

I also really like Woolies.   They carry a nice mix of fun coin and cowry shell items and inexpensive and fun cabaret-type stuff.  They have a lovely staff and are located in the  REI mall.

I've been able to find tons of Gypsy-feeling items at Mermaid Imports.  They also carry some fun hip belts and jewelry and great bindis.

And don't forget to check out the wonderful Indian Arts Emporium in the Dimond Center (and at Saturday Market in the Summertime!).  They carry fantastic bindis, scarves, unique jewelry and so much more!

If heading to Fairbanks, don't miss the Space for Movement Studio owned by Joyce Young.  She has a fantastic and complete mix of tribal, cabaret, accessories, consignment, a variety of Saroyan (music quality) zills, stuff to make your own costumes, cds, dvds and more...the most complete belly dance boutique in the state.  Located downtown on 2nd Avenue in the old Elbow Room Space.  Check it out!

ON-LINE FAVORITE SOURCES

www.phoenixrisingartists.com

www.saroyanzils.com (my favorite finger cymbals)

You can get some great prices and a huge selection on eBay but it can also be hit and miss so be cautious and read the fine print about shipping to Alaska.