How To

How to Dress for Modern Dancing

Contributor
By Kelly185
eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)

Like with any style of dance, modern dancers need to dress comfortably. Dance requires extensive motion and movement, making flexibility and stretch a necessity in fabric. Though your costuming will vary based on your dance company or specific performance, many modern dancers dress the same as dancers in other genres.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Know your style. Many dancers must adhere to their dance company's regulations and rules for dress. Don't let this stop you from being your own person. If your company requires all dancers to wear black, you can make up for this by adding texture to your fabric.

  2. Step 2

    Visit a wholesale costume or dance store. You can often find outfits categorized by dance genre and sport. Try on several outfits and see what fits your personality. Don't be afraid to do a few twirls or break out in moves. You want to make sure the costumes you buy can move with you.

  3. Step 3

    Basic black leotards and black athletic shorts are perfect for warmups or practice. Pick up a few packs of tights and leggings, as well. Modern dance appropriate colors are typically dark: such as black, navy, and dark brown.

  4. Step 4

    Some modern dance performances require costumes designed by the costume designer and producer. In this case, you won't have much say in what you wear. But, many companies allow dancers some flexibility in costuming. If you like a lot of movement, gaucho pants are very popular. Mix with a flowy, modern tank top and you have a great modern dance outfit.

  5. Step 5

    Keep your hair back and tied up in a neat, proper bun. Many dance companies allow their dancers to wear ponytails or even let their hair down. It truly depends on the show producer's wishes.

  6. Step 6

    Be show appropriate. Many modern dance performances revolve around the seasons, elements or notions. Wearing colors and fabrics that reflect those motifs is always appropriate.

Tips & Warnings
  • Speak with your show producer or company about what dress is required and encouraged.
  • Never reveal cleavage or dress inappropriately. This is the fast route to being cut from a company.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Arts & Entertainment Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US

Demand Media
eHow_eHow Arts and Entertainment