Because dance is mostly synchronized, it's especially important that the dance outfit give your team the uniform look. Whether your dance team is opting for today's athletic style with long pants and a midriff spandex top, or the more traditional skirt or shorts and "T" combo, the uniform reflects your team. The uniform says a lot, and what it says to your audience can be especially important in competitions where judges are watching for how seriously your team wants to win. So when you're designing or decorating your dance uniform, it's important to keep in mind color and style choices. And more importantly, what rules and regulations have to say. Remember that rules may vary from one school or organization to another, so be sure and know the rules that apply to your team.
High School Dance Uniform Rules
Rules pertaining to high school dance uniforms follow many of the same rules that apply to cheerleading uniforms. Following are a few general guidelines which coaches are expected to make sure their team complies with, violations of which can result in penalties. Rules vary from state to state, so make sure you check with your local organization pertaining to dance uniform rules.
Clothing, Jewelry and Accessories
Basically dance apparel should cover the midriff (middle section of the body from front to back) when standing at attention, and nude bodysuits are obviously not permitted. Eye glasses should be secured with a band, and there should be no beads or knots on the band.
- Jewelry must not be worn unless it's a medical or religious medal, which must be secured to the body or uniform.
- Fingernails must be kept at an "appropriate" length.
- Hair should be worn in a manner that minimizes risk, and hair devices should be secure.
- Apparel and accessories should not pose a risk to participants.
- Shoes must be soft-soled dance or athletic shoes.
- Glitter must adhere to body or uniform.
- Supports or braces with rough edges should be padded.
- A manufacturer's label or trademark on apparel may not exceed 2-1/4 square inches.
- An American flag worn on clothing or apparel may not exceed 2 X 3 inches. A commemorative or memorial patch may not be larger than 4 inches, and should be approved.
- Use of artificial limbs is not considered dangerous but rules may vary from state to state.
Props
Props, that is anything that is not attached or positioned on a uniform, are allowed, but may not be used as "bases".
College Dance Uniform Rules
The following information is intended to serve as a guide for designing your college dance uniform, based on theofficial rules.
The rules are not extremely detailed; generally "appropriate" dress is required for all practices, performances and award ceremonies. The following is a guideline about what is deemed appropriate.
In General:
- No sexually provocative or risqué garments may be worn.
- Garments must be "secure" to prevent "wardrobe malfunction" or clothing coming open or apart.
- Appropriate undergarments must be worn.
- Use good judgment in using sheer materials. No sheer skirts or tops that allow briefs or bras to be seen. Sheer fabric over the midriff or neckline is fine.
Dance Tops
- No bra styles, material must fall at least one inch below bra line.
- No extremely low cut necklines.
- No excessively bare or backless styles.
- Material around the back must be solid.
- No tube tops.
- Tops must be secured with straps around neck or over at least one shoulder.
Dance Bottoms
- Pants or skirts must completely cover the hips and briefs when feet are shoulder width apart, and fall at least 1-1/2 inches below cheer briefs, or 2 inches below standard briefs, in the back.
- No excessively short shorts.
- Waistbands must not be lower than 2 inches below navel when worn with midriff or cropped top.
Dance Shoes
- No bare feet.
- Participants must wear soft-soled shoes or dance shoes when competing.
All Star Dance Rules
The following are 2010-11 rules pertaining to all star dance uniforms. For detailed information visit the All Star Federation.
Footwear is "recommended but not required". Socks and footed tights are prohibited.
Jewelry is allowed as a part of the costume.
"All costuming and makeup should be age appropriate and acceptable for family viewing". No "suggestive, offensive, or vulgar costuming" is allowed.
Props
"Wearable and handheld items are allowed... and can be removed and discarded from the body". Standing props are allowed with limitations.
