It’s hard not to notice the stunning figure skating costumes skaters wear during competitions. Sometimes it feels like a Met Gala on ice – complete with sequins, beading, lace… not to mention jumps, footwork, and spins.

But have you ever wondered what’s really behind all that glitter? More importantly, how do these beautiful, delicate-looking outfits actually hold up through the demands of a full skating program?

Let’s be honest competing as an adult figure skater takes serious courage. Heck, even starting the sport as an adult takes guts! And when it comes to competition outfits, many of us find ourselves trying to squeeze into designs made for skaters half our age. Sure, the size on the tag might change but the shape and cut of the dresses often do not.

The reality is adult bodies are different, and our costumes should reflect that. After doing a lot of research (and crowdsourcing tips from fellow skaters), I’ve pulled together some real-world advice to help you find or create a competition outfit that works for you—exactly as you are today.

Dress the Body You Have

Most off-the-rack skating dresses are designed with junior skaters in mind—petite frames, shorter torsos, minimal curves. But adult skaters might need more bust support, a longer torso cut, or a fit that simply “holds you in” more.

The good news? With a little planning—and a bit of creativity—you can find or design a look that flatters, supports, and performs beautifully.

Going Custom is More Accessible Than You Think

Custom competition dresses are more attainable thanks to talented Etsy designers and independent makers.

When you go the custom route, you can request:

• More coverage in the areas that matter to you
• Built-in shapewear or supportive lining
• Longer skirts (or pants instead of a skirt!)
• Mesh sleeves or illusion necklines for comfort & confidence
• Strategic color blocking for a flattering silhouette
• Colors and styles that match your skin tone and shape

The process? If your designer is local, you’ll likely meet in person to talk through music, style, fit concerns, and get measured. If they’re remote (like mine was), you’ll often have a video consult and receive a detailed measurement sheet. I took mine to a local dressmaker for accuracy—and even added extra measurements just in case.

From there, the designer created sketches, and we stayed in touch throughout the process. The hardest part? Honestly… shipping the finished dress across the Canadian border! (So give yourself extra time for delivery.)

Don’t Be Afraid to Alter

Already have a dress you love but want a few tweaks? Go for it. I’ve had skirts shortened and repairs done by a different person than the original designer.

Just make sure your tailor has experience with skating, ballroom, or gymnastics costumes—they’re constructed very differently from your average cocktail dress.

Also worth checking out: designers like Lisa McKinnon, who run seasonal sales and offer mix-and-match leotard/skirt combos that allow for easy personalization.  Additional resources? I’m finally starting to see a few size inclusive brands popping up and a forward thinking designer who not only creates custom but is also moving towards rentals. Think Rent-the-Runway but for skating costumes!

Dancewear: A Hidden Gem

Another route worth exploring is dancewear. Many dance costume brands create pieces specifically for adult dancers—and these can translate beautifully to the ice.

While I haven’t tried this yet myself, I’ve seen several options that allow you to order a few styles, try them on at home, and return what doesn’t work. A movement-friendly design with flexible sizing is a big win.

What to Wear Underneath Your Costume?

The right undergarments can totally change how you feel in your costume. Some adult skaters swear by seamless shapewear that smooths without restricting movement. A few favorites:

• SKIMS high-waisted shorts or bodysuits: I mention this brand because they offer a wide range of skin tones and cuts
• Skin colored sports bras with low-profile styles that blend under mesh. This one has the bonus feature of encouraging good posture.
• Built-in bras or extra lining added by a seamstress, or fashion tape to keep something in place.

Tips for tights:

• Match your tights to your dress for a longer, cleaner leg line
• Try ballet tights for thicker material and more skin tone options
• Layer: some skaters use a base footed or mesh tight under over-the-boot tights for warmth and smoothing

Finishing Touches

Some skaters like gloves for style or warmth—or simply to avoid grabbing a blade barehanded in a catch-foot position. Others prefer the feel of no gloves. It’s all personal preference.

Hair accessories? You can find tons of custom clips and scrunchies that match your outfit. Quick tip: test them out during practice to avoid mid-program pin drops (this can be dangerous—for you and the skater behind you).

Skate Your Story

At the end of the day, your competition outfit should make you feel powerful—not self-conscious.

Whether it’s a custom creation, a well-loved dress with a few smart tweaks, or just the right pair of tights that make you feel confident—you deserve to feel seen and celebrated out there.

So go on. Skate your story. And wear what makes you feel like your best self.

Have a tip to share? Tag @LattesandLutzes with your favorite adult skater outfit hacks—I’d love to hear from you!