How to Choose a Dance Costume

Choosing the perfect dance costume is an important step in creating a great dance show. The dance tells the main story and the costume adds the details. Here are a few guidelines to help you choose the perfect costume.

Instructions

1. Think about how the costume moves on the dancers' bodies. A fringe skirt swings, a chiffon dress flows and a crinoline skirt bounces. Pick the movement you want to have on stage.

2. Consider the dancers' body types. Choose a costume that flatters everyone's figures. You want your dancers to feel comfortable on stage.

3. Listen to the music to determine the mood. Pick a costume in a color that enhances that mood. For example, blue is calm, red is hot and yellow is happy.

4. Determine if the song is a character song. If so, choose a costume that resembles that particular character. Research the character's costume to ensure that you have accurately portrayed him.

5. Choose a costume that does not inhibit the dancer's ability to move. Skirts that are too long may get in the way. Headpieces that are too heavy make dancing difficult.

Resources

• To see character costumes, visit Charactercostumes.
• For ballet costumes, see Balletcostume.
• Discountdancesupply has dance costumes.