Blog

One of the greatest benefits of working in the dancewear business is the opportunity to work with amazing teams and watch them grow and change over the years. And that's certainly true when it comes to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Gold Rush Dance Team. What’s especially great about this team is that these girls know what they want – and what did they want this year? Eye-catching sparkle!

What is so incredibly unique about jazz is that is can take on so many different forms: from contemporary and fluid choreography, to bold and edgy movements. One of our favorite dancwear trends for the season? When jazz takes on a fierce edge!

The first time I attended a Synchro Nationals competition, I remember being struck by 3 things: how bright colors transformed and popped on the ice, the way a fluttering skirt seemed to increase a skater’s velocity, and – most significantly - all of the matching team apparel. It seemed there was an unwritten rule that jackets, scarves, luggage, and even socks must coordinate - team spirit in full representation!

With soaring aspirations, Wisconsin's St. Francis High School Dance Team's challenge was to design their new high kick uniform with the dance theme of “God’s Breath.” Undoubtedly, they needed a look that would sparkle more than ever. Beth Obst, the team's adviser, described the vision for their new high kick costumes as “breathtaking”, we were excited to get started! This design needed to be nothing short of spectacular!

Who doesn't love a good theme?! From retro-themed numbers to military-esque routines, let your imagination run wild!

Many of these costumes are inspired by classic designs, adding a new twist to a throwback look: Fresh, new designs based on traditional themes like princesses and the production of Grease. And, much to our delight, what about a look back to the retro 1980's aerobics craze - which is close to our hearts because that's how The Line Up got its start 25 years ago. Yep, it all began with leos and leggings. We had a lot of fun working with those patterns and designs!

And now, without further ado, here are a few of our favorite hot themes of the season!

During the bustling months of November and December, most people are consumed in turkey, twinkle lights, cookies and wrapping paper. However, in the world of dance, the show never stops! For Iowa City’s Regina Dance team, that couldn’t be more true.

Color us proud! This last August, one of our very own local talents, Kristina Ferdig (a former Viking cheerleader and Line Up model) landed a new role as Director of Cheerleading for the Arizona Cardinals. Without skipping a beat, Kristina tackled her first task: Designing and ordering the team’s new uniforms.

Going a different direction on a dance, costume and theme is a risk many teams take. This past year, the University of St. Thomas Dance Team (located in Minnesota, not the island) took a major risk with a one song, Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z "Holy Grail" routine at the 2015 UDA College National Championship and it paid off! We were eager to bring their costume vision to life and match the "JT swag" they were going for.

Last week, we lost our friend Diane Rawlings. All of us at The Line Up, one of the small businesses she consulted with, feel an immense loss. Her infectious positive attitude, energetic reception and entertaining stories made her training sessions a day to look forward to. Whether it was a multi million dollar business, small family enterprise or single person needing help, Diane was consistently committed to moving others toward something better. Her commitment to learning, teaching and developing others, with regard to the unique qualities we each have to offer, set her apart from others.