“It takes an athlete to dance, but an artist to be a dancer.” —Shanna LaFleur
This quote by professional dancer Shanna LaFleur echoes in studios worldwide. Although it has become a popular saying among dancers of different genres, it can be said that it perfectly captures the concept of contemporary and lyrical forms.
Modern and lyrical dances are beautiful art forms that tell stories through movement. While both borrow elements from different genres, like ballet and jazz, contemporary and lyrical dances focus on expressing individuality and emotions. That’s not to say that these genres don’t include demanding jumps, turns, and footwork, but to emphasise the artistry that elevates the movements beyond technical feats.
In an act where the dancer interprets the music or narrates a story through movement, costumes become an essential part of the choreography.
How Do Costumes Affect the Perception of Dance?
Source: Pexels
Stage clothes have long been used in theatre, film, and dance to influence how we perceive a performance. And it’s not just about setting the location and time frame in which the narrative unfolds; it’s about setting the tone and mood. For instance, dark, flowing fabrics can suggest a sombre or mysterious theme, while bright, airy costumes can evoke feelings of joy, innocence, romance, and playfulness.
In dance, costumes play other important roles as well. First, they accentuate the dancer’s body lines and form, making the choreography come to life. Second, they enhance the performer’s freedom of movement, allowing them to smoothly transition from one move to another. And third, they provide support and comfort for the dancer, boosting their confidence on stage.
How Do Lyrical and Modern Costumes Differ from Traditional Stage Clothes?
When it comes to dance lyrical costumes in particular, they can also enhance the emotional impact of the performance, drawing the audience into a powerful artistic experience. Unlike traditional stage clothes that prioritise structure and form, like tutus and pointe shoes, modern and lyrical costumes focus on fluidity and expression.
The fabrics are soft and flowing to create a more poetic and vivid visual. Chiffon and mesh fabrics that drape gently and move with the dancer’s body are often the primary choice for skirts and overdresses, while cotton and lycra blends are often the base for tops. Depending on the picture you want to portray, the tops can then be further embellished with flowy mesh sleeves, lace detailing, or sequins.
In terms of design, dance lyrical costumes usually feature asymmetrical cuts or high slits to emphasise leg extensions and emotional gestures. They tend to be more form-fitting on top to allow for clear articulation of upper body movement.
To complement the unique style of the dancer and their performance, these costumes can also incorporate various accessories, such as flowing scarves, flower ribbons, sparkling hairpieces, and glitter, just to name a few.
What Do Dancers Wear in Modern and Lyrical Dances?
Source: Pexels
What modern and lyrical dancers wear depends on the context. Studio attire, for example, is less theatrical, focusing on functionality and comfort. Solo dancers might wear unique costumes that make them stand out from the rest while group performers might prioritise harmony and unity in costuming.
When shopping for dancewear for class or performance, it’s wise to ask your teacher for recommendations. Some studios have specific dress codes for classes and some competitions have costume regulations. Talking to your instructor ensures you’re following guidelines and donning appropriate apparel.
Popular Brands to Consider
Our contemporary dance scene is bursting with creativity, so finding the perfect match for your energy won’t be a challenge. With homegrown brands like Studio 7 and Energetiks offering a virtually endless range of options, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From stunning flowing skirts and sleek tops to comfy activewear, there’s something for everyone, regardless of age and skill level.
Studio 7 is a label of choice for thousands of dancers nationwide. Renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality materials, Studio 7 offers a vast selection of dancewear for practice and performance. If you’re looking for a costume that’s both visually stunning and functional, keep this brand on top of mind.
Energetiks is yet another leading Australian dancewear brand offering a large selection of garments for contemporary dances. With high-quality costumes that embrace fluidity and self-expression, Energetiks caters to the individual needs of each dancer, ensuring the ensemble reflects the artistry.
Closing Thoughts
Source: Pexels
Now that you have a better understanding of the importance of costume design in contemporary dances and know how these garments differ from their traditional counterparts, you can make an informed choice for your next performance or practice session.
Keep in mind, apart from being visually appealing, it’s crucial for your outfit to feel like a natural extension of yourself. This means prioritising fit and comfort so you can fully express yourself through dance. With that being said, you can now explore costumes online or in-store to find your perfect ensemble.