Performance attire is different from regular clothes. It should be made of fabrics that allow movements, follow the nature of the dance and capture the audience’s attention. So, if you’re searching for contemporary costumes for sale, don’t be surprised by all the silk, lace, tulle and rhinestone embroideries. If you’re performing a lyrical dance here are several tips to help you choose the right lyrical costume.
Why do Dance Costumes Matter?
The importance of dance costumes in dance performances is comparable to the proficiency of the dancers themselves. These costumes play a crucial role in enhancing the dancers’ visual appeal and overall performance, while also capturing the essence and concept of the dance. A great costume will draw the audience’s attention and perception, heighten the excitement of the performance and contribute to the narrative or portrayal of emotions.
Consider The Focus of Your Dance
Make sure to consider the focal point of your dance. Contemporary lyrical dance revolves around seamless movements so, it is crucial to select lyrical attire that enables unrestricted and effortless mobility. Opt for dance costumes crafted from lightweight materials such as chiffon or flexible fabrics like spandex and jersey. This will guarantee your comfort and self-assurance while performing your dance maneuvers.
Choose a One-Piece or Leotard
To keep the accent on movement rather than attire, it’s best to avoid wearing multiple garments, such as a separate skirt and top. This is especially important for dance performances. A leotard combined with a skirt made from a lightweight and fluid material is a great option. A one-piece ensemble with an attached skirt to the leotard is also a great choice.
Your Costume Should be Flattering and Well-Fitting
If you’re checking contemporary costumes for sale, forget about the “one-size fits all”. Each dancer is different and needs a customized fit that accentuates their movements while maintaining the integrity of the performance. This is why it’s essential to try on costumes before buying. If you can’t do that, it’s important to take good measurements of your body and search for costumes made of stretch fabrics. It’s important to carefully choose a lyrical costume that enhances your physique and instils confidence. Don’t forget that no matter how talented you are and no matter how long you’ve practised, your performance can easily be ruined by an ill-fitting costume and trust me, the judges will notice that instantly.
Materials
It’s crucial to check the materials. Some costumes are crafted from delicate fabrics like lace, tulle, or silk, while others are made from sturdier materials like denim or cotton. Once again, the dance style will dictate the choice of materials. A ballet tutu, for instance, cannot be made from cotton or denim. Ballet is an elegant dance form that requires costumes made from soft fabrics, that will look delicate and ethereal. On the contrary, hip-hop dance allows for costumes made from denim or cotton, as the movements involved are more energetic. These costumes can easily “take” a mix of bold colours, and accessories such as chains, rhinestones, lace or tassels.
Pay Attention to Details
Even if you’re a ballet dancer (ballet is considered a classic dance) you don’t have to stick to plain costumes. There are many ways to incorporate visual allure and individuality into your lyrical dance costumes. This may include opting for specific fabrics like red lace or satin or embellishing the costumes with sequins and rhinestones. The dance floor allows this and when the lights are on, all the sparkle will only help emphasize your movements.
What Else to Consider
Dance Style
There are various styles of dance such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, and others. Selecting the right costume is of the greatest importance. You simply can’t dance ballet in jeans and a baggy T-shirt that is suitable for hip-hop. When choosing your costumes, you should consider your dance style. While a good dancer can perform in any attire, the costume must always fit the dance style. If there are no strict rules when it comes to colours, choose something that emphasises your skin tone. The colour should make a good contrast with your skin. If you’re going for nude tones, be sure the costume is embellished with rhinestones, so you still get attention in the spotlight (nude costumes without any decor may easily look plain and washed out).
Age
Age is a significant factor to take into account when selecting dance attire. Young children should opt for comfortable and flexible outfits that promote movement. On the other hand, adult dancers have the liberty to wear more intricate costumes. In general, everything depends on the dance style and the age of the performers.
Location
Finally, the location is as important a factor as the rest I mentioned before. Where will the performance take place? Will it be on a formal stage, ballroom or in a more casual setting, such as a party? The choice of location will determine the appropriate costumes. Stage performances typically call for more dramatic-looking costumes. For example, a stage ballet tutu would be embellished with glitter and sparkly embroidery to captivate and mesmerize the audience. On the other hand, more casual settings don’t require stage costumes. In such cases, the dancer can easily wear a casual outfit, such as a leotard, skirt, and tights.
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