Dance recital costumes are items you're not too likely to find in a store. Fortunately, crafting your own costume is relatively simple and inexpensive, and anyone can do it!
The best way is to start with a pre-made base outfit. If you are skilled with sewing and think you can handle working with spandex, feel free to design your own base and go from there. However, buying a unitard or leotard is the quickest and easiest way to go.
Spandex is, of course, the staple of such a costume. The shiny variety is what is most commonly used, and it comes in an array of colors. Consider beforehand whether you want to purchase or sew your base with or without sleeves, legs or a mock turtleneck, as finding the exact variation you need may require some investigating. Browse local sports and department stores, and if necessary, order one online or have one tailored. Patterns are available at your local fabric store, just keep in mind that sewing spandex can be difficult, and to carefully estimate how much stretching the fabric will be doing.
Of course, the base is hardly suitable for a recital on its own. Here you must use your imagination, perhaps sketching out ideas for a design on paper first. Link the music for the dance to your costume if possible - for example, if the song has a color in its title, create a costume of that color. If it is about wind, add flowing chiffon sleeves. Sleeves and skirt are the most common attachments for a recital costume; gauze and chiffon being popular fabrics for either or both. The same type of spandex you used on the base will also be suitable for a skirt, in particular if it is paired with a leotard. Short, wraparound skirts are also good for a more subtle look, in particular if the base fabric does not shine. Keep in mind when you are designing that a fair amount of flexibility will be required by the dancer, and it is important to go with something that won't hinder movement, accidentally come loose or pose a risk of tripping. The lowest a skirt should be is mid-calf and bells on the bottoms of pants should be carefully measured just past the ankle.
The most important part of a dance costume is sparkle. Designs of rhinestones or sequins on the bodice of the outfit can spice up what is otherwise a subtle costume, and glittering add-ons are necessary to catch the audience's eye. Ensure that these are sewed on tightly - the best way is to buy them in a "string" of jewels and loop thread in between the stones to secure them. Larger jewels are more likely to come loose, but if your local fabric store carries any that can be sewed very securely, feel free to experiment. Line the cuffs or skirt hem with sequins as well as the collar.
Finally, the accessories. Pair a jazz or tap costume with plain black dance shoes, and a ballet costume with pink or matching dyed slippers. Weave colored ribbons into the child's hair or secure a scarf around their bun. Add stage or heavy makeup and glitter gel, and your child will be ready for their recital!
