Figure skating is more than just a sport; it’s an expressive form of art that showcases the beauty of hard work, perseverance, and determination. This art is expressed through exquisite jumps, maneuvers, and, of course, ice skating outfits. When it comes to the world of fashion on the rink, however, things can be a bit tricky. Here at Figure Skating Boutique, we not only specialize in helping you find the best figure skates, but in finding the best ice skating outfits, too. Without further ado, here are our eight expert tips on getting the perfect ice skating outfit. 1. Consider your budget Arguably, the most important factor in buying ice skating outfits is your budget. Figure skating is an expensive sport, and when you go to an event or competition, figure skating dresses are just a fraction of the cost. You need to consider transportation, accommodations, food, hair and makeup, and so many other things. Once you calculate the cost of those, you can see how much you have left to spend on your figure skating dresses. 2. Homemade or store-bought Next, you’ll want to decide whether you’ll be going the homemade or store-bought route for your ice skating dresses. Both are perfectly good options; it just comes down to what you prefer and exactly what you’re looking for in an ice skating dress. If you decide to make it yourself, here are a few things to consider: Does it stretch? Whether the routine is beginner or advanced, performance requires movement, meaning the fabric needs to move with the skater. Give your fabric of choice a few tugs. Does it stretch easily, or is there any resistance? Ideally, you’ll want to ask a store assistant to help you locate the 4-way stretch fabrics. A 4-way stretch simply means that it will stretch not just side to side, but top to bottom as well, providing ultimate movement and mobility. What is your level of sewing? If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to avoid any fabrics with sewn-on sequins or anything of that sort, as they are harder to manipulate. Look for fabrics without any add-ons that will be easier to use. Remember that you can always choose a fabric with a bold print or sew-on beads and whatnot afterwards if you wish for the dress to be more eye-catching. Examine the Price Tags Depending on the type of fabric and its width, the price will vary. When you go shopping, have your measurements with you so you know how much fabric you will need to buy to ensure you have enough to complete the project. 3. Brand You may think that brands don’t matter, but when it comes to the world of figure skating, they definitely do. For example, Mondor® is a Canadian brand that is known for its eye-catching fabrics and durability. On the other hand, Solitare dresses, a collection from Jerry’s, are more elegant and lean on the mature side. This brand is ideal for figure skaters looking for a more sophisticated and “grown-up” look. Or, you could consider Chloe Noel® if you are looking not only for ice skating outfits, but accessories and leggings as well. Jerry’s and Mondor® also option a number of great choices for these items as well. Brand names aren’t everything, of course, but if you have a specific style in mind, they can be a great option to consider. 4. Pay attention to the event The next important factor you will want to think about is the type of event you will be skating at. Different events typically require different types of ice skating outfits. If it is just a figure skating test, you can opt for simpler looks with plain, non-patterned fabrics. That’s because, for these types of events, the judges are looking at skills over style. However, if it is a skating competition, then fashion and flair can come into play, and you have more leeway with what type of look you will go for. 5. Consider the location and temperature Yes, you will be skating on the ice, but knowing what the weather is like or where you’ll be skating is a great help. The outdoor climate can affect the overall indoor temperature and can play a factor when it comes to deciding on a long or short-sleeved skating outfit. 6. Colour Figure skating is a performative sport; athletes usually perform at their best when they are most confident. If this is one of your first events, choose a colour that makes you feel like an absolute powerhouse. After all, there is nothing worse than stepping onto the ice, nerves soaring, and wearing a colour that makes you feel insecure. So, although this may seem like a minor detail to consider, it can play a huge role in how you perform. 7. Program music Your program music can significantly dictate what your ice skating outfit will look like. When you listen to the music, take note of how it makes you feel and what colours you envision. Use that to help you find the perfect attire that will complement the music beautifully. 8. Listen to your coach If your coach has given you any specifics for your ice skating outfits, those notes should be at the very top of your list when shopping. If they have told you to avoid any specific type of look, then avoid them like the plague. The last thing you want to do is show up to a competition in an outfit your coach does not approve of. Remember, they’re the coaches for a reason and are professionals when it comes to this sport, so heed their advice. Getting the Perfect Ice Skating Outfit Finding the right outfit for your event can seem daunting, but we hope the tips we gave you will help you find the perfect one! Just keep your budget, the feel of the program music, your coach’s advice, and the event in mind, and you’ll be on your way to discovering the best fit for you. Our best advice is to make a list and carry it with you when shopping to refer to when looking for ice skating outfits so that you don’t forget any important details. Remember that confidence is key, and having a truly wonderful ice skating outfit does wonders for boosting your mental performance on the rink. For all your figure skating needs, call Figure Skating Boutique at 1-866-957-0396 or contact us here.
