Dance has long been a significant influence on fashion trends around the world. While the core components of dance attire remain the same, their appearance changes drastically over time. This shift creates a balance on the stage and adds to the visual element of this active art form.

Staying up-to-date on the latest dance fashion styles can help you put the finishing touch on your recitals and performances. Here are some of the top dance fashion styles for 2020.

Mesh is the New Lace

Lace appliques and bodices have been predominant over the past few years. Now, this trend is falling by the wayside, with mesh taking its place. Mesh is a functional material for dance. It allows for deeper cuts without concern about movement as well as comfort for floor movements without detracting from the appearance of natural skin. It’s also more durable than traditional leggings and tights.

Pop mesh is also becoming more prevalent in hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary dance fashion. These athletic-style tops allow for airflow and movement, capturing the athleisure trend that’s rocking modern fashion. With pop-sublimation printing, this form of mesh is ideal for being able to add customization for group performances.

Ruching on the Bodice

Gathered fabric— also known as ruching— has become a popular dance fashion trend for 2020. This style adds texture and dimension to a costume in a subtle way. It lacks the glitz and glam of sequence and other appliques, which translates well in many emotional, contemporary performances.

Ruching is often used in conjunction with mesh over the bodice. This trend creates the illusion of movement and flow without having excess fabric interfering with movements.

Ballet-Inspired Looks in All Dance Modalities

Another common trend in 2020 dance fashion is the ballet-inspired components being integrated into all forms of dance. From long, tulle skirts to ballet shoes, more hip-hop and contemporary dancers are adding elements of this more rigid, traditional dance modality.

However, dancers in other training styles are adding their unique flair to these ballet-inspired looks. For example, wearing a high-low version of a tulle skirt or incorporating slits that allow for more movement and a modern look.

Deep V-Neck and Halter Cuts

Deep V-neck dance costumes are all the rage right now. This style goes hand-in-hand with the mesh trend, as it allows dancers to sport a dramatic neckline while holding everything in place.

The deep v-neck trend is also connected with the shift toward more halter top style leotards. These dance costumes are reminiscent of figure skaters and Flamenco dancers and add a poignant dramatic flair.

Jewel Tones are on the Rise

Nudes and neutrals have been popular color choices in recent years. In 2020, you’ll see a shift toward more jewel tones, such as emerald, plum, ruby, and navy. These darker, dramatic colors add a richness to the stage, as well as a note of calmness and serenity.

Dance fashion isn’t the only place where you’ll see more jewel tones. This trend seems to be making waves in street fashion, bridal fashion, and even interior design trends this year.

Showing the Shoulders

More emphasis is being put on the shoulders in modern dance fashion trends. The halter-style look certainly contributes to this focus, but off-shoulder style cuts are becoming more common as well.

In addition to the halter-style and off-shoulder style leotards and costumes, shoulder cuts are becoming increasingly popular as well. This upcoming trend is a rare contradiction to street fashion trends, as the aptly named “cold shoulder” look is falling out of fashion.

Long Sleeves

Long sleeves are making a comeback in dance fashion. Again, this is a trend that complements the mesh trend, as many dancers are opting for long, mesh sleeves. These sleeves add a touch of color and comfort while allowing the natural skin tone to pop through. This fashion fad adds an air of elegance and sophistication to contemporary dance performances.

In fact, the long sleeve trend looks fantastic with many of the 2020 dance styles. Whether it’s shoulder cutouts, deep v-necks, or ruching, long sleeves make for a flattering combination.

2020 and Beyond

When looking at the 2020 dance style trends, think about the emotion you hope to convey on stage, as well as your comfort level. Choose something that embodies what you hope to convey in your performance.