Simple Dance Outfit Hacks To Try
Let’s talk dance outfit hacks!
Now, I love to invest in a good quality dance set when I have a favourite I’ve been eyeing off and want a lasting piece by a quality brand in my wardrobe…. But, when you dance A LOT, outfits start to add up pretty quickly. You want a diverse collection to mix and match, but you also want *money*.
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly outfit ideas, or curious for some new tips to try out, I’m sharing a few below:
DIY Fishnet Shorts
Skip the exxy price tag and grab a cheap pair of fishnet stockings – because let’s face it… there’s no avoiding these ripping sooner or later (that’s okay though, it’s part of the look!) Simply cut the stockings to length and voilà – fishnet shorts you can layer under almost anything!
I find the smaller netting holes work better for cutting into shorts, but you can go for patterned or classic fishnet depending on your preferred look! I’ll usually buy a handful, keeping some as full length stockings, and then when they get too torn up (usually from catching on my stilettos) I chop them down into shorts and wear them to death.
TIP: Cut them LONGER than the length you want. They’re very stretchy so will roll up shorter than where you make the cut.
Invisible Kneepads
If you’re wearing full-length stockings, try wearing your kneepads UNDERNEATH for a more seamless look. This works best if the kneepads are nude-coloured! If you’ve got kneepads with grippy strips on the inside, they’ll stay snug all class without shifting around beneath the material.
Swimwear Sets
No joke, I’ve had a basic pair of high-waisted swimmer bottoms from Cotton On Body since 2017 and they’re still going strong and are probably my most worn piece from my dance drawer.
The material is obviously made for swimming, so its fabulous at absorbing sweat without going see-through, and is usually pretty thick with durable lining. You could buy separates to mix and match, or even find cheeky one-piece swimsuits to wear as a bodysuit! (why not with your new fishnet shorts underneath?)
Bikinis are also an option – though tie up strings have more chance of catching or pulling undone, so I’d opt for adjustable buckle straps for swimmer tops.
TIP: Unless specifically designed with a scrunch bum, I actually wear my swimmer bottoms back-to-front… More coverage at the front, cheekier at the back!
Pole Boot Styling
If you’re looking to spice up your platform boots, try swapping your laces for coloured ones – or even satin ribbons! If you have two pairs of boots you could make four different combos by swapping over the laces when you want a new look!
Another fun upgrade is boot sleeves – @platformprotectors make zip-on thigh-high covers that slip neatly over your existing boots. They’re custom-made to your measurements and chosen height, which is particularly amazing if you’re a shorty who’s entire leg gets swallowed by pre-made thigh boots. With a pair of sleeves, you basically get two styles in one: wear them as your regular ankle boots or zip the sleeves on for a whole new look without having to invest in another pair.
TIP: If you haven’t tried my lacing hack yet for putting your boots on super fast, you can check out this Pole Boot Lacing Tutorial for when you re-lace!
