Costume, Hair & Makeup Guide
This page has everything you need to make sure your dancer shines on stage! Please bookmark this page for quick access to costume instructions, hairstyle guidelines, and makeup tips.
Costume Information Guide coming soon!
Fit and Caring for your Costumes
Costumes have been tried on in the studio and assessed for proper fit before being sent home. Unfortunately, due to the continued volatility of the transportation and production industry this season, we are unable to secure any new costumes or sizes other than what has been received.
Costumes should be tried on again at home with proper undergarments and assessed for any need of alterations, loose strings, straps etc. Have these taken care of IMMEDIATELY, so there is no rush come the week/month prior to the concert date. For alterations we recommend: Stacy’s Alterations, in the shopping center/building next to Starbucks on Virginia Beach Blvd.
Hang and store your costumes immediately (away from the prying eyes and hands of friends and siblings).
DO NOT WEAR them on any occasion other than the mandatory dress rehearsal and concert dates.
Music in Motion is not responsible for damages to costumes once they are in your possession. Please note that costumes, once ordered, often have a ship date several months in advance. If a costume is damaged and must be replaced, there is a very real possibility that it may not be available by the concert date.
The costumes are yours to do what you wish following the performance.
Garment Bags and Hangers are included with your costume purchase.
Tights, Shoes & Undergarments
Performance Tights & Costume Undergarments
Performance tights are included with your costume purchase. Each dancer receives one brand-new pair of recital tights per costume based on the requirements of the class they attend.
These tights should not be worn until Dress Rehearsal and Recital. Students may try them on with their costume ahead of time to confirm proper fit. If your dancer does not have another pair available, they may be worn for Class Photo Week, though we recommend saving them for rehearsal and performance days when possible.
Recital tights function as a dancer’s undergarment and help to:
• Reduce visible lines under costumes
• Hold costume pieces securely in place
• Provide modesty when changing backstage
If you prefer that your dancer wear underwear underneath their costume, please ensure it is skin-toned and does not create visible lines under the costume. We strongly recommend trying the full costume on at home ahead of time to ensure everything fits comfortably and remains invisible.
Most dancers do not need to wear a bra-type undergarment with their costumes. Recital costumes are designed to provide enough support for younger dancers. If your dancer does choose to wear one, please ensure that straps are clear or nude/skin-toned and do not show when worn with the costume.
Additional recital tights and approved costume undergarments—including nude leotards, briefs, and performance bras—can be ordered directly through our costume supplier. We recommend having an extra pair of tights on hand as a backup for recital week.