As an expert in sommelier and brewing, I must admit that my knowledge on the topic of hula dancing is somewhat limited. However, I can certainly provide some insight into the traditional costumes worn by hula dancers and whether they wear anything under their skirts.
In ancient Hawai`i, the attire of hula dancers was quite different from what we see today. Both men and women typically wore a simple skirt made from natural materials such as grasses or leaves. These skirts, known as “pa`u,” would cover the lower body while leaving the upper body exposed. It was a cultural norm at the time, and there was no concern about modesty or societal expectations of dress.
Fast forward to modern times, where cultural practices have evolved, and societal norms have changed. Today, female hula dancers usually wear costumes that are more modest and in line with contemporary sensibilities. This means that they typically wear a mu`umu`u, which is a loose-fitting long dress, or a pareau, which is a sarong-like garment. These costumes cover the entire body, including the breasts.
The decision to wear something under these costumes is a personal choice for each individual dancer. Some dancers may choose to wear undergarments such as bras or camisoles for added comfort or support. Others may opt to go without anything underneath, depending on their personal preferences or the specific requirements of their performance.
It is worth noting that the choice to wear undergarments may also be influenced by the type of fabric used for the costume. Some fabrics, like lightweight cotton, may be more sheer and require additional coverage underneath. In contrast, thicker or more opaque fabrics may provide enough coverage on their own.
In my personal experience, I have seen hula dancers wear a variety of undergarments or layers underneath their costumes. Some dancers prefer to wear nude-colored undergarments that blend with their skin tone to create a seamless look. Others may choose to wear compression shorts or leggings for added coverage and ease of movement.
Ultimately, the decision to wear something under their skirts is a personal one for each hula dancer. It is influenced by a combination of cultural traditions, individual preferences, and practical considerations. Regardless of whether they choose to wear undergarments or not, the beauty and grace of hula dancing remain unaffected.
To summarize, in ancient Hawai`i, both men and women traditionally danced hula without anything above their waists. However, in modern times, female hula dancers usually wear costumes that cover their entire bodies, including their breasts. The decision to wear undergarments underneath these costumes is a personal choice, influenced by factors such as comfort, support, fabric choice, and personal preferences.