It's no secret that jazz dance costumes are more a function of function than style. However there are numerous fun and beautiful costumes for you to choose from. The dance movements that are involved in jazz dance demand lots of flexibilty and grace and so do the costumes.
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Jazz costumes are very form fitting with tight body lines without frill and bustle of other dance costume styles. Costume designers have done a wonderful job of creating costumes that that are not only functional but flashy and showy while making the body glamorous on stage.
Color is the most expressive form of the jazz costume. You can choose between bright and flash colors or muted tones with flashy accents. Using brighter colors to seperate different dancers in your troupe will make your showcase dancers stand out from the crowd.
Some of the most popular jazz dance costume pieces are the halter top and racer backs. They are often complimented with lots sequins and other eye catching materials that can be glued on. Using them in combination with hot pants and fitted long pants are viable options.
Layered clothing is out as it inhibits the movement of the jazz dancers. That's exactly why most costumes use tight pants or shorts and fitted tops that allow for flexibility. The beret is growing in popularity as an accessory.
Don't forget to put thought into the shoes as part of the jazz costume. The more basic and low profile the better. Don't allow the shoes to be the weak link in the costume. You can purchase jazz shoes in neutral or loud colors with a slight heel. Lyrical shoes are gaining in popularity for the jazz costume as well. Lyrical shoes give the appearance of of no shoes at all.
Keep in mind that jazz costumes are not meant to be over the top. It's a fine line between costumes that are too much flash and show and costumes that fit the theme of the number. No jazz number is complete without the proper costume and attire.
