Dress for Success

Choosing the Right Figure Skating Dress or Costume for Competition Season

As skaters begin preparing for the upcoming figure skating competition season, many have already taken the important first steps, goal setting, season planning, and music selection. Once the music and program style are set, the next piece of the puzzle is costume selection.

A figure skating dress or costume is more than just a finishing touch. It supports performance, enhances presentation, and helps skaters feel confident stepping onto the ice. At Skate VIDA, we help skaters throughout Austin and Central Texas navigate every stage of competition preparation, from early planning to the final details.

👉 Read our post on planning for the upcoming competition season
👉 Read our guide to choosing the right music for your skating program

Why Costume Selection Matters in Figure Skating

While costumes aren’t judged directly, they strongly influence how a program is perceived. The right dress or costume:

• Reinforces the theme and mood of the music

• Complements choreography and movement quality

• Helps skaters feel confident, polished, and prepared

A cohesive look allows judges and audiences to immediately understand the skater’s intention, supporting stronger performance and interpretation scores.

Start With the Music and Program Style

Costume decisions should always be driven by the music and choreography, not current trends or what another skater is wearing. Consider:

• Is the program classical, modern, dramatic, playful, or lyrical?

• What emotions or story is the skater trying to convey?

• Does the music call for sharp, clean lines or soft, flowing movement?

For example, a high-energy program may benefit from bold colors and sleek designs, while a lyrical piece often pairs well with softer fabrics and elegant detailing.

Fit, Function, and Comfort Are Non-Negotiable

No matter how beautiful a costume looks off the ice, it must function on the ice. A competition costume should:

• Stay securely in place during jumps and spins

• Allow full range of motion for sit spins, spirals, and extension

• Avoid heavy embellishments that can affect balance or timing

Skaters should always practice in their competition dress before their event to ensure comfort and confidence. In collaboration with Heart of Texas Figure Skating Club, Skate VIDA offers exhibition opportunities for skaters to perform their competition programs in the weeks leading up to the event date.

Choosing Colors That Stand Out Under Arena Lighting

Ice rinks and arena lighting can wash out certain colors. Deep jewel tones, strong contrasts, and thoughtful crystal placement often read best on the ice.

At Skate VIDA, coaches frequently help skaters choose colors that complement:

• Skin tone and hair color

• The lighting at local Texas rinks

• The emotional tone and tempo of the music

Staying Age-Appropriate and Rule-Compliant

Costumes should always follow U.S. Figure Skating guidelines and be appropriate for the skater’s age and competitive level. When in doubt, checking with a coach before purchasing or altering a costume can help avoid last-minute stress or costly changes.

The Cost of Skating Dresses—and a More Affordable Option

Figure skating dresses can be a significant investment, especially for families navigating multiple competitions, levels, or rapidly growing skaters. Custom dresses, crystals, and alterations can add up quickly.

A great, budget-friendly alternative is dress rental.

Through our in-house figure skating club, Heart of Texas Figure Skating Club (FSC), skaters have access to a rental closet stocked with competition-ready dresses. Skaters can:

• Borrow a dress for a single event or for the entire season

• Pay only a fraction of the cost of purchasing a new dress

• Focus resources on coaching, ice time, and training instead

Dress rental is an especially popular option for first-time competitors, test-based events, or skaters who expect to change songs during the season.

👉 Visit the HoT Rental Closet
👉 Learn more about Heart of Texas FSC membership and benefits

Plan Early for a Smooth Competition Season

Whether purchasing or renting, costume planning should happen early. Finalizing dress plans well before the first competition allows time for:

• Any needed alterations

• Practice sessions in full competition attire

• Backup options if needed

Early preparation leads to calmer competition days and more confident performances.

Supporting Skaters Every Step of the Way

At Skate VIDA, we believe that strong performances come from thoughtful preparation. From program planning and music selection to costume guidance, competition coaching, and on-ice training, we support skaters at every level throughout Austin and Central Texas.

If you’re preparing for the upcoming competition season and want guidance on programs, costumes, or training, we’d love to help you step onto the ice feeling confident and ready.

📫 Email to set up a competition prep meeting with one of our coaches