Dance is a special force that definitely deserves a celebration of its own. It is more than a powerful and a beautifully artistic way to express oneself. It possesses the unique and diverse power that unifies all those who are influenced by it. To globally celebrate dance and spread joy, International Dance Day was created by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute, the main partner for the performing arts of UNESCO. It is celebrated on the 29th April every year.

This International Dance Day we at The Dance Bible (TDB) bring to you 10 different costume ideas to help you look and feel your best ❤️

1. Ballet

If you are a ballet dancer, leotards and unitards are your best friends. They provide you with a lot of comfort, freedom of mobility and enable the viewers to see the complexity of the techniques, which adds a very pleasant aesthetic appeal to the performance. You can pick from a huge variety of leotards and unitards, ranging from the classic solids, printed and designer mesh bodysuits that adds to the beauty of your act and silhouette. Pair the leotard with a flowy chiffon skirt or tulle tutu and ballet shoes that are perfect for you to complete the look.

2. Hip Hop

When you think of hip hop artists you think of casual street style outfits, baggy joggers and oversized graphic printed t-shirts, they are a part of the fashion and culture of hip hop. While performing, the most important factor is comfort and style. Joggers give you a unique look and are lightweight and comfy. Go for joggers that fit you right and allow easy movement, pair it with a crop top or an oversized t-shirt and sneakers to complete the swaggy street style look.

3. Jazz

Make the perfect jazz outfit with a pair of comfy flared pants, flaunting your curves 😉, style it with a tank top or a leotard to suit your style. Complete the look with a stunning pair of jazz shoes and minimal jewellery. 

4. Bharatanatyam 

Bharatnatyam is an Indian classical art form that has its roots deep into South Indian culture, that is why it is important to get the Bharatanatyam costume right, to represent the elegance, beauty and traditional heritage of the region. The most eye-catching aspect of the attire is the vibrantly colorful sari with a pleated stitched cloth in the front that fans out during leg and knee movements. In fact, the sari is not a single piece but a combination of many cloth pieces of different varieties. The woman is adorned with flowers and jewellery with hair and makeup done to suit the performance.

5. Belly Dancing

The typical Egyptian belly dance costume is a gown or a bra and skirt with hip accentuations that are usually built directly onto it. Accessories can include a headband, arm cuffs or form fitting (unattached) sleeves, and a veil. Choose from a variety of designer bras or tops and flowy skirts with sequins and glitter to stand out and enhance your look.

6. Kathak

Kathak costumes have evolved tremendously over centuries. The traditional Kathak costumes include a Lehenga-Blouse-Churidaar, or an Angrakha-Churidaar. In both costumes, wearing a dupatta is necessary. If the Kathak dancer is wearing a Lehenga-Blouse, they must ensure that the lehenga is above the ankle in order to make sure that it doesn't interfere with the movements.

7. Garba 

The traditional costume of the Garba dancer is a brightly colored Chanya Choli, also called Lehenga Choli or Ghagra choli. You can also add Odhini with bandhani (tie-die), Abhla (big mirrors) or with thick Gujarati borders. You can also style it with heavy jewelry, such as necklaces, sparkling bangles, waist belts and long oxidized earrings to make your look special.

8. Zumba 

Zumba classes are fun and a treat for everyone, so you must be dressed your best to be confident and have a good time. Pick a pair of cute solid or printed leggings that fit you perfectly and pair it with a quirky t-shirt or a tank top to flaunt your physique. Complete the look with sneakers or comfy shoes and go wild with it 😉.

9. Contemporary 

For Contemporary, it is important to wear comfortable clothes that still show your lines when you dance. It is important to find fitted clothing yet not too restrictive so that you can get the most out of the performance. A cute, fitted, stretchable contemporary dress or leggings and a top are great options for contemporary, you can also go with bodysuits and a skirt if you're comfortable in them.

10. Bollywood

Get ready to dance Bollywood-style with a costume inspired by the diversity of Indian fashion. Think of a mix and match of costumes from different dance styles in vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and jewelry that sparkles. This look is perfect for dances such as Bollywood or Indian Folk dances.

International Dance Day is a great opportunity to show off your creativity and individuality through your dance costumes. Use these ideas as inspiration to create a costume that truly represents your style and personality. Happy International Dance Day!