Dance Mum or Secret Costume Designer?

And other titles you didn’t expect to add to your CV.

Somewhere along the way, between signing up for classes and watching their first showcase, you stopped being just a dance mum. Now, you’re also part seamstress, part stylist, part glitter-control expert — and occasionally, a last-minute magician with a glue gun.

Welcome to the beautifully chaotic world of dance costumes. It’s sparkly, it’s creative, and yes — sometimes it’s held together by sheer determination and a few safety pins.

The Costume Brief: Sparkly but Practical (but Not Too Sparkly)

It usually begins with a perfectly simple request:
“Black leotard. Hair in a bun. Jazz shoes. And maybe a little something silver… nothing too big.”

Fast forward to the night before and you’re deep into your third attempt at attaching sequins that just won’t stick. You've repurposed last year’s tutu, raided the craft drawer, and are currently Googling “how to sew stretch fabric with no sewing machine”.

Staples, Safety Pins & Superpowers

For every show, dance mums are out here working miracles. From taming frizzy hair with one hand and steaming a tutu with the other, to sewing ribbons during lunch breaks — you’ve got skills you didn’t even know you had.

And let’s not forget the last-minute costume change on the day. Velcro fails? Safety pin to the rescue. Headpiece gone missing? A quick ribbon and hair grip, and it’s showtime.

You’re not just a parent. You’re wardrobe department, costume fixer, emergency glitter technician… and you do it all with a smile (and maybe a slightly frazzled “where’s the other shoe?” moment).

The Magic is in the Mayhem

It may be a little chaotic. You may find sequins in your washing machine for months. But there’s something wonderful about creating these moments of magic for your child.

Because when they step on stage — confident, beaming, and twirling in their sparkly masterpiece — it’s all worth it. The DIY trim, the last-minute fixes, the late-night costume tweaking... every bit of it helped bring the performance to life.

It’s Not Just a Costume — It’s a Memory

Behind every dance outfit is a story. A mum (or dad!) making it work. A child watching themselves transform in the mirror. A shared moment of laughter when the tutu tried to run away.

These aren’t just costumes — they’re stitched together with love, teamwork, and a little creative madness. And they’re part of what makes the dance journey so unforgettable.

Even when under pressure from work, many dancers remember their mums being their number one supporter. The one cheering in the audience, pinning a last-minute hem, and reminding them that they’ve got this—sparkles slightly askew and all.

Still Wondering if Dance Is Right for Your Child?

It comes with sparkle, snacks, stretchy fabric, and some serious memories. If you're ready to be part of something a little magical (and occasionally messy), we’d love to welcome you.

Have a look at our upcoming classes and see how the fun begins. Explore our courses at Just Dance — and yes, bring the glue gun just in case.