How to Select Costumes for Aerial Performance: Safety, Style, and a Whole Lot of Flare

Your aerial performance is gonna be amaze-balls and those gravity-defying feats of strength, beauty, and flexibility deserve a costume that’s just as impressive. But here’s the catch: you need more than just sparkle and shine. The right costume should work in harmony with your movements, showcase your style, and—most importantly—be safe. Throw in hair and make-up that enhances your awesomeness and doesn’t mess with your flow, and you’re good to go. Let’s talk about how to select the perfect costume and hairstyle for your aerial performances!

Costumes: The Fashion Meets Function Dilemma

Picking the right costume for an aerial performance is like baking the perfect cookie—just the right balance of ingredients to make everything work. You want something that makes you look like you’re floating in a dream (or slithering from the hellmouth, if that’s your vibe), but you also need it to stay intact while you’re twisting, twirling, and defying gravity. Here’s how to hit that sweet spot.

1. Fabric Is Everything

Your costume’s fabric is its backbone. If you’re wearing something that doesn’t stretch, cling, or allow full movement, you’re going to feel the burn (in all the wrong ways). So, choose wisely!

• Lycra/Spandex: These stretchy wonders are your best friend, folks. They give you all the flexibility you need while hugging your curves like a second skin. Perfect for those intricate moves where flexibility is key! 

• Mesh Panels: Want to add a little drama to your look? Go for mesh panels. But make sure they’re strong enough to withstand your acrobatic skills. You don’t want your outfit to tear mid-performance! I have the most beautiful, full body mesh unitard ever. LOVE it, feel pretty in it, would totally get married in it. You know what I can’t do in it? Wheeldowns. I have replaced that costume twice because I am stubborn and never learn.

• Satins: These luxurious materials can give you the glamorous vibe you crave. But a heads-up—they can be slippery and don’t care how much you need to bend. So, balance beauty with function here.

2. Fit Like a Glove (But Better)

Your costume should feel like it was made just for you—no pinching, no sagging. The right fit gives you freedom to fly, not frustration. There are a lot of places to have custom costumes made out there but that’s definitely not a requirement for having something awesome. I’ve had costumers take like 40 different measurements and I’ve also bought some of my favorites off the rack. 

• Compression Fit: Compression outfits are not just a trend—they help support muscles, improve circulation, and reduce fatigue. That’s right—look fabulous and keep your body happy.

• Flat Seams: The last thing you need during an aerial routine is a seam digging into your skin. Look for costumes with flat seams or seamless designs for ultimate comfort.

• Ready-made Sizing: When you are selecting costumes that are ready-made (from resellers, dance and gymnastics stores, etc.) you might not be able to find something that feels made for you (uh, because it wasn’t) but you can make choices that will help you prevent some sizing issues. If you are an aerialist, odds are you have well developed shoulders that might not want to squeeze into every costume. Tank and halter stye sleeves can help! If you’re one of those long legged humans that I have only heard about, capri length, leotard, and biketards might be better than full length legs. You should never feel like you need to change yourself for a costume. If your awesomeness doesn’t fit in that package, find a better package!

• Underthings: Listen, you know if your parts are going to potentially flop out of a costume. If you think they might, you probably want to contain them in some way. If you need something more robust than the shelf lining in your leotard, sew a bra up in that thing! Bodytights, dance belts, and skin colored undergarments are great for making sure you only show what you want to show. 

• Butt tape: Or toupee tape (please don’t use duct tape or carpet tape on your skin unless it’s part of your act) can help keep everything where it belongs. At least that’s what they say.I have never had luck with the tapes for anything other than an ambient performance. 

• TIGHTS: I’m not getting into the great tights debate. I’m team tights and I won’t be taking questions at this time. 

3. Consider Your Apparatus

Not all aerial apparatuses are created equal, and neither are your costumes. Whether you're hanging from a bar or soaring on silks, you’ll need an outfit that works with the equipment.

• Bar Apparatuses: I always feel like I have a lot more flexibility when it comes to costuming for bar apparatuses. I think because I don’t need to feel with my feet in the same way I do with silks and I don’t have to worry as much about embellishments getting snagged on fabric. Plus, slippery costumes aren’t as much of a big deal on ropes or a taped bar. What we do have to consider though, is what will happen on rolls. Will that pretty skirt get wrapped up in a series of hip circles and force you to back all the way out? Is that super grunge flannel going to get stuck in the spanset?

• Aerial Fabric Costumes: So much depends on your act but think about what your costume needs to cover (and not cover). Are you going to rip all your skin off on that slack drop if the fabric is sliding across your sweaty back? Do you need access to skin to master that elbow hang? Also think about how you need to move with the fabrics. Usually fluttery fabrics and items like skirts can be more trouble than they’re worth. Also be sure to watch out for zippers, studs, and sequins that can damage fabrics (or you).

4. Safety First—Because We’re Not Trying to Join the Circus of Disasters

Safety isn’t just important—it’s absolutely non-negotiable. Aerial performers put a lot of trust in their costumes and apparatuses, so make sure yours are up for the challenge. Always rehearse in your costume with a coach nearby to save you from tangles and offer solutions for keeping that leotard where it belongs. 

Hair Styling: The Sky-High Do’s and Don’ts

Let’s talk hair. Your locks are your crown, but they also need to be practical. You can’t have a flawless aerial routine looking like Cousin Itt or getting caught in the apparatus. Here’s how to keep your mane under control without sacrificing style.

1. Keep It Out of Your Face

I’m not here to tell you to live that bun life, unless that’s part of the vibe, but generally you want to be able to see and be seen when you’re performing. I have a lot of hair and I think it looks really cool whipping around when I perform–until it gets stuck over my head and I lose track of what’s going on - OR WHEN IT GETS STUCK BETWEEN MY BODY AND THE FABRICS OMG. 

• Letting it fly: If your hair isn’t too long or is manageable, half up, half down styles can be really pretty and show off your length without getting out of control.

• Buns and Braids: Buns are a classic option—secure, stylish, and out of the way. Go for a high, tight bun, or braid it up for a no-fuss look that stays in place. Long braids can be secured close to your head to add intricacy to otherwise simple looks 

• Headbands or Hairpieces: If you're adding these embellishments to your costume, make sure they are SECURED. Pin, spray, or even sew hairpieces in to avoid a mishap. 

  
  

2. Check for Comfort and Security

Before you take the stage, give your hair a test run. Perform a few flips, spins, and jumps to make sure your hair isn’t about to make a break for it.

• Comfort Is Key: Your hairstyle should feel as comfortable as your costume. If it's too tight or giving you a headache, it's not going to work for long routines. Keep it secure but also ensure it won’t cause tension or discomfort.

Wrap-Up: Get Ready to Soar!

When it comes to aerial performances, your costume and hair should work together to enhance your performance—not hold you back. The perfect costume balances function, comfort, and style, while your hairstyle keeps your look polished and practical. Remember: Safety is paramount, so make sure your outfit and hair won’t get tangled in the apparatus or distract you from your moves. With the right costume and styling, you’ll be ready to soar through the air with grace, power, and a whole lot of flair. Go ahead, fly high—you’ve earned it!