Choosing a competition dress is no easy task, and many factors must be considered when starting your search. Some examples are music type, design, budget, coaches' input, and so much more. It can be intimidating to know even where to start your search. I interviewed renowned dressmaker Brad Griffies for helpful tips and tricks for selecting a dress for any age and level.
Tip #1 - Budget
Before you begin your search, it is essential to set a budget. Custom dresses can range anywhere from $300 to $5,000 depending on the designer, style, and amount of rhinestones included on the dress. Most recreational and competitive skaters can get a beautiful creation without spending thousands. Brad Griffies mentioned elite skaters spend more on their dresses as they have a "ton more input from the whole coaching team/federation for World and Olympic level skater." You can also find stock dresses online for a lower cost, but it is important to be thorough in your search.
Tip #2 - Timeline
The next step in selecting your competition dress is establishing a timeline for when you will need the finished product. It is crucial to start your search with plenty of time because it can take months from start to finish, especially if you are getting a custom dress. Brad Griffies recommends reaching out to him at least six months in advance, as his schedule fills up quickly. Other top designers have similar timelines, so planning is vital! Many designers have more availability, depending on their schedule and time of year. January through July tends to be Brad's busiest time of year. Purchasing stock dresses online is another option to get a rhinestoned dress more quickly, but most require at least six weeks to make and ship.
Tip #3 - Design and Inspiration
Once you have secured a time slot with your designer, the next step is to create a design! Many factors go into designing the perfect dress. The first is the age and body type of the skater. Every skater has different preferences, and you should include those while talking with your designer before the process begins. Some skaters get hot while skating, so they prefer a more open dress with short sleeves or sleeveless. I recommend that younger skaters (especially LTS USA level) wear long sleeves, as they are prone to getting cold while competing. US Figure Skating and ISU have rules requiring any skating dress to be "modest, dignified and appropriate for athletic competition," and there cannot be excessive nudity (even with nude fabric). Skaters have more design options than years prior, as pants or unitards are now allowed in competition for women, and sleeveless tops are allowed for men.
Another factor that plays a significant role in the designing process is the skater's music. A competition dress needs to "reflex the character of the music chosen." If you have trouble determining what dress style best fits your music, most designers will give you a couple of different design options. I like my skaters to follow the theme of the music but add a unique aspect to the design to make them stand out. Most coaches also want input on the dress, especially for higher-level skaters, so discuss options before confirming with your designer.
When picking colors for your new dress, focusing on a color that compliments your skin tone is key! An arena's harsh and bright lights can make a dress look different than it does in your home. It is also necessary to use a nude fabric that matches the skater's skin tone (if your dress requires it) to make the dress look seamless. Too often, the nude is too light or too dark and can distract from the beauty of the dress. Nude gloves have become a big trend for skaters, so I ask the designer to make gloves to match the dress to help complete the look. Skaters frequently wear nude gloves that do not match, which breaks the skater's line.
Tip #4 - Fit is Essential!
A beautiful skating dress can look awkward and dull without a proper fit. Brad stressed how skaters are "jumping and spinning around, and everything needs to stay in place. Skaters can get into some crazy positions, so if the costume is not structured right, it can move and make the skater feel uncomfortable". This can negatively affect skaters, and mistakes can happen because they are too worried about their dress. A properly fitted dress will flatter the skater, make them feel confident, and allow them to focus on their skating. If you purchase a custom dress, but the fit is off, always reach out to the designer, as they may have ideas on any adjustments that can be made.
Tip #5 - Stock Dresses
If you are looking for a stock dress online, it is imperative to look at the return policy in case the dress does not fit or does not look the way you envisioned. You can still utilize the tips I've listed for a custom dress to find excellent options online. Getting the right fit can be a little more challenging, so measure your skater precisely before ordering. If you have a skating dress shop in your area, try on many different styles of dresses to find the type you like best. Brad advises against "choosing a design that you like on someone else and having it recreated for you, especially if the original skater you saw the design on has a different build than you." Many websites allow minor changes to the original design (change of skirt, colors, etc.) that help make each costume unique.
Tip #6 - Finishing Touches
The dress is not the only thing a skater should focus on when completing their competition look. Details with hair, makeup, and accessories can make a custom dress pop! It also shows you put effort into making a complete look. Brad stressed that "when you show up looking and feeling great, you will skate better, but if you look like no thought was put into it, the judges can see that, and it may affect the score. If you need help deciding how to do your hair and makeup for your competition, reach out to your coach or dressmaker for ideas. Finishing touches can make a world of difference!
Sparkle and Shine in Your Finished Product
It is always a good idea to practice in your new dress before a competition to make sure no adjustments are needed. Your dress will shine if you feel confident and comfortable. Once you have your new masterpiece and have decided on all the extra details, you are ready to rock your next competition! Thank you Brad for sharing your expertise!