THE IMPORTANCE OF COSTUMES

Believe it or not, but your costume affects every aspect of your score at competition. From the moment a dancer, or group of dancers, take the stage, an opinion is made that subconsciously sets the tone for your score. From the neatness of dancer’s hair to the fit of the costume, to the costume design and attention to detail, it’s all very important. A “flashy” and beautiful costume with hundreds of rhinestones is worth every penny. If a dancer(s) enters the stage looking well groomed and wearing a costume that appears to have had time, effort and thought put into it, subconsciously judges will assume the dancer(s) is very well prepared and well trained, therefore, raising the base score immediately. Whether you spend 1 hour or 20 hours in the studio a week, it is important for your appearance to say “I spend 20 hours a week in the studio”. “Letting the dance speak for itself without the costume” really isn’t the best idea.

Don’t have a seamstress and order your costumes? Do not worry!! An ordered costume can be altered to fit perfectly. You can also order trims, beads, and rhinestones to enhance the look and make it an original. Ordering basics is a great option, too. You can totally design your own costume with basics adding rhinestone designs, beading, and trims. By adding accessories and details, you can customize any costume!

Some genres don't use as many "flashy" accessories as others. With hip hop costuming, pay attention to every detail down to the shoes. Rhinestones and such aren’t used as much here but they can certainly enhance a costume if you use the same color rhinestone as the fabric. With contemporary pieces, the choreographer may want more of a subdued look, but colored stones matching the fabric can keep the idea all while taking the costume to another level.

Last but not least, secure your hair and every piece of the costume, including hats and belts. Secure the front of jackets to the front of the costume. Secure every little detail. Losing a piece of your costume or having your hair come down will lower your score. 

In conclusion, a well-polished look affects the overall performance and impression, therefore, raising the overall score of a piece. Like it or not, right or wrong, this is factual. I hope this helps parents and teachers better understand the importance of costuming.

Dance hard. Dance smart.

Meredith
thecompetitiveedgebymeredith.blogspot.com

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