Choosing a competition dress can feel overwhelming for any figure skater. With so many styles, colours, and brands to choose from, how do you know what’s right for you? The perfect dress should reflect your program, support your performance, and make you feel confident the moment you step onto the ice. The Figure Skating Boutique carries an extensive range of visually impactful and high-quality figure skating dresses from reputable brands. Once you’ve read through this guide, take a look at our online selection or stop by our Markham store! 1. Consider the music and theme of your program Every aspect of your program must be cohesive. This includes the theme, music, and your figure skating outfit. If there’s a disconnect between what you’re wearing and what you’re skating to, it diminishes your impact. In competition, this can make the difference between first and last. Judges evaluate the artistic interpretation and presentation of your routine, as well as its technical elements. The music, theme, and wardrobe should work together to enhance your performance on the ice, creating a program that wows judges and crowds alike. Every musical crescendo is mirrored in the dress’ movement, whereas the outfit’s colour reflects the tone or theme. The costume should capture the mood, story, and energy of your routine. As you begin your search for the perfect figure skating competition dress, start with your program’s music and theme. Think about how your wardrobe choice can elevate your routine. For example, a soft, flowing dress will work well with a lyrical, emotive program. For more upbeat routines, look for a dynamic outfit with bold colours. Try to find inspiration in the music and theme. 2. Understand competition requirements Different levels and types of competitions often have different guidelines and rules for figure skating clothes. Make sure you know what they are before purchasing your dream outfit! Otherwise, you may have to return it. (Fortunately, the Figure Skating Boutique accepts all qualifying returns, purchased both online or at our Markham location.) Adhering to competition rules prevents avoidable point deductions and penalties. Don’t let your performance be dimmed by an easily preventable mistake, like choosing a figure skating dress that doesn’t meet sleeve requirements, embellishment limits, or modesty guidelines. 3. Choose a trusted brand for the best craftsmanship and functionality The brand you choose matters. After all, a brand is more than just a name. High-quality brands convey beauty, functionality, durability, and style. They help ensure that you make a positive and unforgettable impression as soon as you step onto the ice. Audiences and judges pay just as much attention to how you look as how you skate, so wearing a high-quality brand is essential to your success. The right brand will help you shine. It will also be able to withstand the tough demands of figure skating competitions. The best brands are known for their craftsmanship and durability. Their competition dresses are designed to resist the performance wear and frequent travel that comes with competitive skating. They won’t fall apart after one or two wears. Rather, each outfit is an investment in your (long) skating future. At the Figure Skating Boutique, we carry the most popular collections from renowned brands like Jerry’s, Mondor, and Carley’s Angels. That way, you can find the best figure skating outfits for your performance and personality. Explore the Solitaire collection from Jerry’s for couture figure skating competition dresses, featuring exquisite details like rhinestone designs and crystal embellishments. These are made for competition! Alternatively, Mondor’s Polartec® line spans all your skating essentials. This includes stylish dresses with ruffled skirts and glittering fabrics for competition, as well as simpler, functional looks for figure skating tests. 4. Prioritize movement, colour, and style We’ve highlighted the importance of your fashion choices on the ice, but precisely what goes into a stand-out figure skating outfit? A figure skating dress’ visual impact is determined by its movement, colours, style, and fit. Flowing fabrics move with you on the ice, enhancing every motion for maximum impact. Shimmering embellishments, such as rhinestones and crystal loops, catch the light at just the right moment. The right colour can capture the viewer’s attention and give you a boost of confidence. The best costume is one that makes you feel as good as you look. Don’t pick a costume that makes you feel self-conscious, even if someone else says that it looks amazing. You can find an outfit that enhances your movement and suits your personality in a colour and fit that you love. The best place to start looking? The Figure Skating Boutique! 5. Let your personality shine There’s no substitute for confidence. Finding an outfit that matches your personality is the best way to unlock new levels of confidence, which will only elevate your overall performance. For first-time competitors, feeling comfortable and confident is even more crucial. From colour choices to design details, skaters should embrace a look that is authentic and empowering. Not everyone feels their best wrapped in dazzling sequins or dramatic colour blocking. And that’s okay! So, whether you love a classic silhouette or a modern, edgy fit, the right dress is out there. It will reflect your style, boost your confidence, and elevate your performance. 6. Don’t underestimate the importance of fit Now that we’ve discussed the value of flair, we need to stress the importance of fit. Even the most beautiful dress in the world will not do you any favours if it doesn’t fit well. An ill-fitting costume can quickly become the focus of your routine, instead of your incredible footwork and spins. It’s a distraction or, even worse, a safety risk. Dresses that are too tight can restrict movement in jumps or spins, putting you at risk for a bad landing or fall. On the other hand, clothing that’s too loose can shift or slide, resulting in a wardrobe malfunction or a break in concentration. The perfect fit enhances your movement on the ice and allows you to focus on your performance without worrying about your outfit. If you’re purchasing a skating dress online, make sure to consult a size chart. Still unsure? Simply ask an expert at the Figure Skating Boutique. You can reach out online or stop by our location in Markham, Ontario, for personalized in-store fitting assistance. Explore Figure Skating Dresses From the Figure Skating Boutique The Figure Skating Boutique is a trusted provider of high-quality figure skating dresses from brands like Jerry’s, Mondor, and Chloe Noel®. We have an outfit for every personality, program, and budget. With over 20 years of expertise in the figure skating industry, our experts are ready to assist you in your search. We’ll help you find what you need in-store to help you succeed on the ice. For all your figure skating needs, call Figure Skating Boutique at 1-866-957-0396 or contact us here.
