Figure skating is an all-around sport of artistry, even down to the ice skating dresses worn in competition. The expression for a skater's choreography can be enhanced by choosing a custom designed skating dress to reflect the character, mood or setting for the music. If the program will be skated to Romeo and Juliet, then the "plain Jane" approach to costuming should be replaced by a skating dress that reflects the time period, nationality and spirit of the characters.

When selecting the perfect skating dress, try to capture the theme of your long or short program, but also keep in mind your body type and work with a costume that accentuates the positive and covers up the negative. Most people have some level of imperfections, and the skating dress should be designed to bring out the best in you.

Figure skaters with shorter torsos should avoid a skating costume that breaks up the pattern with horizontal lines. This would include any costuming contrasts around the waist or excessive accent marks on the front or back of the costume. Rather, choose a skating dress in a darker color, using vertical applications or separated sequins devoid of any lines.

The sleeves of your skating dress can be used to give the illusion of long, clean lines accentuating beauty and grace. Rather than selecting a short sleeved costume, try a sleeveless design or one that covers to your hands to keep the flow of the arm movements and make your extremities appear longer. Even in men's skating, this costuming choice is popular, with particular expertise worn by Johnny Weir, whose sleeves are extended to his fingers for that beautiful, aesthetic line.

Skaters with long legs may wish to accentuate their asset with a high-cut leotard base, similar to a ballet-styled costume. The high leg cut will rise to about half an inch above the crease in the upper thigh and give the illusion of even longer, more beautiful leg lines.

When selecting the color of your skating dress, be sure to choose the shades that work best for you. Your total image with poise, attitude and costuming makes a deep impression on the judges, so be sure to evaluate your body type truthfully and work your costume from there. Your skating dress should never reflect the latest trend or color options popular with team mates. The skating dress should reflect who you are and what you are going to perform, irrespective of what looks good on others.