Performance Costume Design
Shipped across Alankriti by Rachna Arvind
I design custom dance costumes that match your choreography, fit your style, and are made for comfort and stage impact.
Pricing Guide
Signature 12m Ghera Kathak Anarkali
Core Costume Build
- The 12m Flare: Floor-length Anarkali constructed using the "Kali" panel method with 10 to 12 meters of fabric (Semi-silk, Raw Silk blend, or Heavy Cotton-Silk) to ensure a full circle expansion during chakkars.
- Performance Bodice: Custom-fitted yoke with double-lining and optional padded cups to prevent movement or shifting during performance.
- Specialized Bottoms: Color-matched Cotton-Lycra or pure Cotton Chudidar with extra length to create distinct gathered "chudis" at the ankle.
- Dupatta: 2.5-meter lightweight Georgette or Chiffon drape, styled and pinned if required.
Stage Mechanics
- Centrifugal Hemline: Broad (2-4 inch) heavy Gota, Zari, or Brocade border applied to the hem. The added weight forces the skirt to fan out instantly during spins and settle without tangling.
- Sweat Control: Full interior lining using high-grade Butter Crepe or Mulmul Cotton to absorb stage perspiration and prevent fabric from sticking to the legs.
- Reinforced Stitching: Double-stitched side seams and armholes to withstand high-velocity arm movements and stretching.
Customization Service
- Fit Session: In-person measurements focusing on torso length and skirt height relative to ghungroos.
- Design Options: Selection of necklines (Angrakha, Round, High Neck) and contrast color combinations.
Fusion Sangeet & Festive Lehengas
Ensemble Configuration
- Statement Blouse: Designer cuts (Halter, Spaghetti strap, or Backless) featuring machine embroidery, foil mirror work, or Kutchi patchwork. Includes built-in cups and cotton lining.
- Agile Skirt Construction: Reduced volume skirt (4 to 6 meter flare) made from Shibori Tie-Dye, Bandhani, or Fluid Rayon to allow easy jumping and fast footwork without the weight of classical costumes.
- Smart Waistband: Flat-front design with an elasticated back to ensure a snug fit that stays secure during vigorous dancing.
Stage Finishes
- Movement Accents: Heavy, decorative Latkans (tassels) attached to the blouse back and lehenga waist to visually accentuate hip movements.
- Hands-Free Draping: Optional pre-stitched or shoulder-attached dupatta designs to prevent obstruction during choreography.
- Structure: Wire-pico or horsehair braid edging at the hem to maintain the skirt's shape while standing.
Bulk Group Performance Costumes
Group Uniformity
- Style Options: Choice of Lehenga Choli, Angrakha, or Dhoti-Kurta sets tailored to the production theme (Mythological, Folk, or Contemporary).
- Fabric & Color: Utilization of Art Silk, Poly-Georgette, or Glazed Cotton for durability and sheen under stage lights. Includes precise dyeing/matching to ensure identical shades across the troupe.
Performance Durability
- Quick-Change Design: Integration of sturdy hooks, Velcro, or elasticated waistbands with drawstrings to facilitate fast backstage changes and accommodate growing performers.
- Movement Cuts: High-cut armholes and sleeves designed to allow full overhead arm extension without lifting the waistline.
- Internal Finish: Overlocked interior seams to prevent fraying despite multiple rehearsals and washes.
Inclusions
- Accessories: Matching fabric sashes, belts (kamarbandh), or character-specific drapes.
- Individual Sizing: Measurement taking for every group member to ensure a polished look (no generic S/M/L sizing).
About Performance Costume Design
Why Performance Costumes Matter
For me, a stage costume isn’t just fabric stitched together — it’s what lets you express the emotion and rhythm of every move. I think about the taal, the thumri, the spins. Every piece is made so your ghungroos, your twirls, your story stand out on stage.
What I Do Best
- Custom Kathak costumes are a big part of my work – I make Anarkali dresses and lehenga sets with massive flare (ever tried a 12-meter ghera?). Because when you spin, the costume should dance with you.
- If you need a dance drama costume partner, I’ve got experience with big productions, from mythological characters to entire groups. Directors trust me to match their vision.
- Sangeet performance outfits and festival wear are in my wheelhouse. I love bringing colour and life to Garba, Dandiya, and Navratri pieces.
How We Work Together
You bring your vision, I bring my craft. We’ll talk about your story, choreography, and what you want your costume to say. We’ll pick fabrics, work out details like embroidery and mirror work, and make sure you get something truly hatke (unique).
For All Sizes, All Stages
Style bhi, comfort bhi (style and comfort too) — always. I work for solo artists, dance schools, even parents hunting for the right costume for their kids. Every fit is personal, every costume is made here, with you.
Meet your Expert
Alankriti by Rachna Arvind
6 connects in last 3 months
My Story
Been at this since 1995, but you know, the excitement never fades. Started Alankriti in 2003 with my daughter, just believing style means feeling good in your own skin. For me, every outfit tells a story - from dance costumes that sway with each taal, to that dreamy sangeet lehenga. I love mixing tradition and a bit of fun, so whether it’s a twirly festive lehenga or a chilled-out linen dress, it’s always about you feeling ‘apni si’ (like yourself).
My Work
Custom & Ready-to-wear Fashion - We make everything - custom bridal lehenga, festive sharara sets, designer blouses for sangeet, linen co-ord sets, cotton casual dresses.
Made Just For You - Pick your own fabrics, prints, and fit. We design what suits your style, modern or classic.
Style Bhi, Comfort Bhi - High-quality fabrics, comfy fits, and a ‘hatke’ (different) look - no compromise on comfort.
Outfits For Every Occasion - From weddings to coffee dates, we’ve got something for every moment you want to remember.
