Last November 2015, the USFSA updated the official Synchronized Skating costume guidelines. If you’ve taken a look at the guidelines, you know that they tend to be vague. For good reason too - it allows for artistic interpretations by teams based on their region and performance choices. Here's guiding principle:
"The costumes of the competitors must be modest, dignified and appropriate for athletic competition, not garish or theatrical in design. Costumes may, however, reflect character of the music chosen."We know with this vague statement, other guiding rules can get a bit confusing, especially since Junior, Senior, and Collegiate levels are excluded from many. So as you start to design for your next synchronized skating dress, here's a look at a few different costume elements, and what the guidelines dictate about each!
The costume guidelines state, “The clothing must not give the effect of excessive nudity inappropriate for the discipline.” So what exactly does this mean? Many have interpreted it as 50% of a skater’s torso must not be nude or illusion fabric, which seems like a safe direction. Nude sleeves and necklines are allowed, but an all over nude bodice look should be avoided.
Level Exceptions: None
It used to be that female skaters were not allowed to wear pants, and skirts were a required standard. This rule has been replaced in recent years, and skaters can now wear trousers or “body-suits” . We saw this daring look on Team Russia at worlds last year- and we loved their idea! What do you think - is your team ready to adventure into the no-skirt territory?
Team Level Exceptions: None
There's no longer an official rule dictating skirt length, but in the past guidelines regulated that skirt lengths must not go farther than just below the knee. This length is recommended for safety and practical reasons. The last thing you want is to trip over your skirt, especially when leaning forward or kneeling!
Team Level Exceptions: None
The guidelines on rhinestones are clear: they aren’t allowed for most team levels. When it comes to sequins, they are allowed depending on how they are attached to your dress. Sequins on solid or mesh fabrics must be “machine burned”. In other words, the fabric must come with factory applied heat set sequins. Sequins that are stitched on with thread are prohibited.
Team Level Exceptions: Rhinestones and sequins can be used in moderation on Senior, Junior, and Collegiate teams, and must be on the bodice only. Sleeves and skirts must be completely free of adornment.
Did you know hair pieces are allowed, but cannot have sequins, beads or rhinestones? And earrings and bobby pins are also not allowed. These items could ”fall off and present a hazard on the ice”. So avoid the glitz when accessorizing your team's next look!
Team Level Exceptions: Once again, Senior, Junior, and Collegiate teams are allowed to wear barrettes with rhinestone or other adornment, as well as earrings.
Buttons and buckles aren't allowed on the ice, but we've figured out a way to hack this rule: appliques! Appliques are pieces of fabric in the shape of a button or buckle, and then stitched onto your garment. They'll give you the same look at a distance while still falling within costume rules!
Team Level Exceptions: None
These delicate items are likely to fall off onto the ice, and are prohibited for all team levels. One way to get a fringe look without getting penalized? Try fabric that is cut to look like fringe. The "fringe" is part of the skirt fabric rather than sewn on. It will give the same shimmery look from a distance, while still following costume guidelines.
Team Level Exceptions: None
Boot covers are allowed, but be aware that a referee could deem them unfit if they are loose or ill-fitting. A judge may also find them distracting while scoring ... so exercise with caution!
Team Level Exceptions: None
The one rule regarding men’s costumes state that men must wear trousers - tights are not permitted. There is some freedom in your choice of color for pants , however.
Team Level Exceptions: None
What happens if your skate dress doesn't comply with these guidelines? There a couple of repercussions:
Hopefully this helps clarify costume rules as you design your next custom skate dress. If you're looking to read and interpret the guidelines for yourself, check out them out on the USFSA Synchronized Skating technical information page. Happy designing!