Buying Used vs. New Dance Competition Costume
White lyrical costume

Buying Used vs. New Dance Competition Costumes

Dance competition season means rhinestones, sequins, and costume shopping! Whether you’re new to the comp world or a seasoned dance mom, one question always comes up: Should I buy a used vs. new dance competition costume?

Before you start searching online, start with your own studio. Chances are, there are plenty of dance moms in your circle looking to offload gently used competition costumes their dancers have outgrown or moved on from. Not only can this save you money, but it also supports each other—and we all know the dance world is better when moms lift one another up.

Here’s a full breakdown of the pros and cons of buying used vs. new, what to look for in each option, how to avoid red flags, and where to find legitimate costumes.

Start with Your Studio Community

Before diving into online shopping, check in with other dance moms, your studio director, or even older dancers who may be selling past costumes. Many studios have:

  • Private Facebook groups
  • Bulletin boards or swap days
  • Costume closets with solos or small group options from past years

This is often the most trustworthy and budget-friendly way to get your hands on a beautiful, competition-ready costume. Plus, you’re helping another family recoup their costs—win-win!

Buying New Competition Costumes

✅ Pros:

  • Custom Fit & Style – Made Just for Them: Measurements are taken specifically for your dancer and tailored to match your vision for their routine. Whether it’s lyrical flow or sassy jazz sparkle, you get exactly what you’re dreaming of (within reason… and budget 😅)
  • Perfect Condition: Brand new means no prior wear and tear, no mystery stains, no bent feathers, and all the sparkles right where they should be. It’s stage-ready from day one!

❌ Cons:

  • Cha-Ching! New Costumes Can Be Pricey: Let’s be real, momma—custom costume prices have gone way up in recent years. It’s not unusual for a solo costume to start around $375 and climb from there, especially if you want all the bells, whistles, and Swarovski sparkle. Before you swipe the card, just ask yourself the magic question: “Is the cost worth it for this routine?” Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes… it’s time to browse the resale groups.
  • Designer Turnaround Time: Custom pieces can take weeks (sometimes months) to produce, especially during peak competition season. Some designers get swamped with orders and may take on more than they can handle. If you’re ordering new, build in extra time just in case—rhinestones don’t rush!
  • Dancers Grow – The Growth Spurt is Real. What fits in August might be riding up by January! Kids grow fast, and those mid-season growth spurts can turn a perfect-fitting costume into a tight squeeze. Always factor in a little extra room—or a plan for alterations.
Blue Lyrical Dress

Buying Used Competition Costumes

✅ Pros:

  • Cost Savings: When you go the used route, you’re in control of how much you want to spend and that can mean big savings. Finding something fabulous and affordable? That’s a dance mom win.
  • Faster Access: With used costumes, you can skip the customization wait and have your dancer in it quickly. Perfect if you’re in a pinch or just want to avoid the long lead time for new designs.
  • Sustainable Choice: Reusing costumes is better for your budget and the planet.

❌ Cons:

  • Fit May Vary: Even with measurements in hand, sometimes a little hemming and tweaking is needed to get the perfect fit. It’s all part of the fun—just think of it as a custom touch to make it perfect for your dancer!
  • Possible Damage: You might need to replace a stone, fix a seam, or give it a quick cleaning. It’s all part of the journey when buying used—but with a little TLC, it can look as good as new!
  • Limited Selection: It might take a little time to find the perfect color, size, and style combo. The search can feel a bit overwhelming, but stick with it, and you’ll find something that works!
3 white Lyrical costumes

🚩 Red Flags to Avoid

Whether new or used, here are some signs to walk away:

    • Seller won’t answer questions or share measurements

    • Only uses stock photos—no pics of the actual costume

    • Prices are suspiciously low with vague details

    • Pushes for payment via untraceable methods (CashApp, Venmo friends/family)

    • Urges you to “act fast” without letting you do your due diligence

💡 Tips for Safe, Smart Costume Shopping

    • Ask your studio to set up a “Costume Swap Day”!

    • Use PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection

    • Save your dancer’s latest measurements on your phone

    • Do your homework! If you’re buying from resale groups, read the comments, check seller reviews, check seller profile, and ask questions. A fellow dance mom who’s been there will tell you—a little homework goes a long way in avoiding surprises!

    • Always inspect used costumes upon arrival to allow time for cleaning or alterations

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💡 Bonus Tip: CLEAN the Costume!

Whether you’re buying or selling, please—for the love of jazz hands—make sure the costume is clean. There’s nothing worse than receiving a costume that hasn’t been washed after a full season of dance sweat and quick changes.

And let’s be real—nobody wants to deal with an unwashed crotch. 😬 It’s basic dance mom etiquette. A quick hand wash, gentle detergent, and air dry go a long way in keeping things sanitary and respectful.

If you’re buying, don’t be afraid to ask if it’s been cleaned. If you’re selling, be the mom who sets the standard. Your fellow dance moms will thank you!

Final Thoughts

Costumes are a big part of the dance competition journey—but they don’t have to break the bank. Whether you choose to go new for a perfect custom fit or snag a gently-used showstopper from another dance mom, the most important thing is that your dancer feels confident and stage-ready.

Start with your studio, help each other out, and shop smart—you’ve got this, dance mama!

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