subject: The Special Care Dancewear Outfits Require [print this page] Wearing special outfits for dance recitals and competitions requires special care of costumes. Dancewear should be treated carefully and only worn for the special occasion. Students should be given a list of do's and don'ts to follow when their costumes have arrived. If the children are not old enough to understand or follow directions, the dance outfit should be given to a parent or adult instead, with a special request to make sure the child understands the importance of following directions.
Wear
Dance competition costumes and recital dancewear should only be worn during dress rehearsals and the actual performances. The outfit is not something to play in with friends or wear to school until after the final dance performance is complete and all photos have been taken. The garments should not be tried on pets or younger siblings before the final event, just incase they are torn or stained beyond repair.
Food and Drink
Eating and drinking in dancewear outfits is not a wise choice to make. Spills, dribbles and drips can happen quickly and easily. Removing the stains they cause moments before a performance is difficult, if not impossible. Certain types of stains may never be removed completely from delicate fabric. Those that must eat while in costume should wear something else on top of it, such as a roomy coat or baggy sweatshirt that will not pull sequins or tear chiffon.
Altering
In the event that the performance dancewear does not fit perfectly, the student's parent should confer with the teacher on how to make alterations. Certain materials may be delicate and need special thread or fasteners to avoid damage.
Laundering
When dancewear is worn more than a few times, it may need to be laundered. The manufacturer's instructions for laundering should be followed to ensure long life and wear of the garment.
Playing
While there is often much time spent waiting before a performance during a show, dancers should take care of their costumes. This includes refraining from running, sliding and crawling on carpets, hardwood floors and other everyday surfaces. Sitting outside in the grass and dirt is not recommended. Sharp corners and furniture should also be avoided.
Afterwards
After the dance performance or series of performances are over, the student may have fun and play with the costume. The dance costumes are food for the imagination when playing dress-up, and give a classy look for in talent show acts. Dancing outfits are fun to wear for Halloween, and can be loaned out to siblings and friends with parental permission.
