Being able to dance is an ageless universal pastime which varies according race, religion, age, etc.  Not only are their many different types of dances, many with their own traditional types of dress, but their are also numerous degrees of dedication and professionalism amongst dancers ranging from the complete novice, participants in a school performance, to those enjoying an evening out in a dance / social club to the dedicated professional.

So what goes into making the perfect  costume?

This will be determined by the type of dance, eg theatrical, ballet, ballroom, etc, the dance movements, the budget you are working to and the freedom of movement they permit.  The key components of any costume are: -

Colour – Visually this is most important aspect of all dancing costumes, especially when doing professional performances.  The colours need to reflect the type of dance while flattering and enhancing the curvature of the dancers’ body.

Material – the most popular material tends to be Lycra as it is lightweight and stretches and moves with the body.  Natural fibres are always best as they also allow the body to breathe while moving. Some of the other popular examples of material include silk, cotton and chiffon.

Dance Wear Outfits for the Sexes

The sex of the dancer also plays a large part when it comes to choosing the design of the costumes due to the anatomical differences between men and women.

The basic components of a man’s costume may consist of a tight fitted waist length tunic and tights, possibly covering a dance belt offering support for the private parts.

The basic women’s costumes includes tights, although lighter than and not as sheer as the men’s tights and a leotard.  The leotard is the most important basic component of most dance costumes and come in numerous designs, shapes and sizes such as a Stylish Women V Neck Long Sleeve Bowtie Dance Leotard, or a Stylish Women Spaghetti Straps Dance Leotard

Female dancers are also very strongly advised to wear a sport or dance bra to prevent the possible ripping of breast tissues resulting from some of the more extreme movements that dancers may be required to perform.

When designing any dance costume, the most important thing to remember is that the clothing making up any full dance outfit must form an extension of the dancer.  The dancer must not have to conform to the costume