The picture to the left provides a close-up look at the sleeves and head scarf. Photograph by John Rickman Photography. So far as I know, this style of sleeve was invented in the United States. These sleeves are stand-alone, not attached to the vest or any other part of the costume. Their puffiness provides a very feminine look, and they look great on just about everybody.
Some dancers are sensitive about having arms that are either too thin or too large.
These sleeves are great for them, because they cover most of the arm and eliminate one of the worries that can interfere with the dancer delivering her best show. The belt at the hips performs several functions. Provides extra decoration at the hipline to call attention to hip movements such as shimmies and hip lifts. Balances the look of the bra. The belt can be as simple as a narrow band with decoration sewn on it, or as elaborate as a hand-beaded confection.