Halloween Safety

Dancewear items make great additions to some Halloween costumes, whether they are dance-related or not.  However, sometimes dancewear can be inappropriate or unsafe when it's taken out of the studio.  Here are a few tips to make sure you have a fun and safe holiday.

1.      Consider your shoes carefully.  If you are a dancer, don't wear your dance shoes as part of your costume (unless they will never go back in the dance studio).  Soft shoes like ballet and jazz shoes can be destroyed if they are worn outside on rough or wet surfaces.  If you are not a dancer, be aware that some types of dance shoes (notably tap and ballroom shoes) have little traction and can leave you prone to slipping.  Others like tap and flamenco shoes have metal on the soles that can destroy flooring.  Pointe shoes are never appropriate as part of a costume, and they can be dangerous if the person wearing them lacks ballet training.

2.      Ensure your costume fits with your plans.  Some dancewear items, like platter tutus, don't go well with activities like sitting and watching a movie (the tutu won't fit in a standard seat).  Others, like tall ballroom heels, don't do so well for long walks trick-or-treating.  Most dancewear items like leotards tights, and jazz pants, though they cover the body, are breathable (this prevents dancers from overheating).  If you need cold-weather clothing for an outdoor event, dancewear probably won't do it.

3.      Be aware of pieces that drag or catch.  Some dancewear items like wrap skirts have ties that can drag on the floor or get caught in something like a car door.  Other garments like flamenco skirts and jazz pants are cut long, and they can easily be trip hazards, especially in the dark.  Make sure pieces fit well, and take precautions so your clothing doesn't get damaged or end up injuring you.

4.      If you or your child are wearing a costume to dance class, check that you are still broadly obeying the dance school's dress code.  You should be able to move comfortably without adjusting your clothes.  Avoid masks, wigs, and unsecure hats that could fall off or obscure your vision.  Always wear your dance shoes, and wear your regular dance uniform under your costume in case you get too hot and need to take it off.  For young kids, make sure they know how to take their costumes off in case they need to use the bathroom.