Recital Costumes; Fit & Care for them before your Performance

Recital costumes are a significant part of recital, they complete the look after dancers work so hard to master the choreography. The costumes share a tale by enhancing the theme of the performance, they also emphasize the dancers' movements on stage. So, let's explore some costume FAQ:

Why Does My Dancer Have Several Costumes?

Dancers have a distinct costume that compliments each dance style. Ballet dancers' technique, grace, and fluidity should be highlighted by the simplicity of their clothing, which are designed to not detract from their movements. A traditional tutu and leotard ballet costume encapsulates the development and history of ballet. The costumes used in jazz, tap, and hip hop are frequently more ornate, mirroring the movement patterns, and are designed to grab the audience's attention.

How Should A Dancer’s Costume Fit?

Your costume may need minor alterations, so be sure to check out your costume early. The cuteness of costumes sometimes comes at a cost - the cost of comfort. The glitz and glam can be itchy or simply uncomfortable. For this reason, you may want nude undergarments. For dance costumes, "fitted" is a must. A dancer's ability to move freely is one of the main purposes of a costume, thus one that is overly loose, baggy, or lengthy could hinder both the dancer's performance and their ability to move. Leotard-based costumes should almost feel like a second skin; they frequently incorporate Lycra which will stretch to accommodate the dancer's movements. Young dancers often complain that their costumes are "too tight" because they are accustomed to their clothing having "growing room" and being a little more roomy. Dance costumes are designed to allow for unrestricted movement, however in order to correctly "fit" the dancer they must be tighter than our day to day clothing. Don’t forget that costumes are made-to-order but not custom-made, so small alterations (such as tacking straps or hemming pants) may be needed to ensure the fit is just right.

What Happens if a Costume Does Not Fit?

We regrettably are unable to make changes to the costumes ordered due to turnaround times being significantly longer than usual. Shortages in the supply chain and shipment delays continue to affect manufacturers. The increased wait times are merely temporary, and we hope that things will soon revert to what we've come to expect.

What to do With my Costume When I Get It?

Find a safe spot at home to store the costume so it will maintain in excellent condition until performance time. Avoid allowing playtime in the costume because it will be too late to get a replacement if something spills on it or it rips. When wearing it for the performance, it's advised to not eat messy foods or drink anything other than water. This aids in avoiding the potentially damaging effects of food and beverage dyes and enzymes. When you receive your costumes:

1. Take them all out of the bags as this will allow it to “rest”, we suggest a garment bag for hanging them up and safe-keeping.

2. Tutus - place short tutus on a flat surface to help them maintain their shape. Hang romantic style skirts – long tutus – upside down to keep them full and fluffy.

3. Put your accessories in a small bag (ziplock or mesh work great) and hang with each costume.

4. You do not want costume pieces to fall off, or even tops fall down…..so check to see if your costumes need to have anything stitched in place or straps adjusted so that extra strap length does not poke out.

5. Label all costumes and their accessories, it is one of the most important things you will do. There will be a number of dancers in your dressing room and many quick changes, accessories and even whole costumes tend to get mixed up. Keep accessories together with your costume; consider using a zip lock bag with each costume and puncture a hole in it to fit over the hanger.

Can We Wash The Costume Before Recital?

Costumes cannot be treated like everyday clothing because they are constructed of specialized fabrics that are delicate. From flexible lycra-blend leotards to the embellishments of sequins and beading. Because of this, we do not advise washing them, but a little extra tender loving care can go a long way! Although washing a garment before a presentation is never a good idea, some costumes can be hand washed. DO NOT put your costume in any kind of machine if you need to clean it. ONLY HAND WASH in cool water, and ALWAYS LINE DRY. Avoid leaving the costume unattended in the water.

How to Ensure a Costume is Performance Ready?

Nothing compares to the anticipation a dance costume inspires for the forthcoming performance! One of their favorite aspects of performing on stage for many is how the costume brings out the poise and confidence they've been working so hard on in class. It’s important to start preparing your costumes …it will keep the stress level down and you will keep your joy….. Use safety pins for emergencies only, anything not sewn on the costume consider sewing all pieces on your costume….not pin them. Be sure you have a skin toned leotard and that it fits properly, these are perfect undergarments for costumes and allow for modesty in the dressing rooms and for “accidents” on stage.

Make sure the costume is ready to go when needed and don’t forget your shoes & tights. It is not a bad idea to make a little note for each dance that lists the shoes, tights, accessories and hairstyle on it and keep it with the costume. Keep costumes covered in a garment bag and transport them that way. If you need to remove wrinkles, steam the costume prior to showtime but do not iron and keep the steamer away from appliqués and sequins. It is never a good idea to eat in your costume, AVOID wearing perfumes, lotions, or makeup prior to recital and only use CLEAR deodorant.

Can Your Dancer Wear Undergarments with Their Costume?

Of course, however please remember that dance costumes should not reveal any undergarments. Most of the time, especially for younger dancers, outfits with built-in leotards do not call for underwear. It's important that we don't see bra straps, panty lines, hanging undergarments, or prints when costumes are worn. We urge your dancers to wear undergarments and/or a leotard that complements their skin tone because we want them to look and feel their absolute best.

Our dancers are so excited "Once Upon a Time" at our upcoming performance.