First Feis Outfit – What to Wear for Your First Irish Dance Competition
This guide explains exactly what to wear for your first Irish dance competition, including the essential outfit and a simple checklist for the day.
Getting ready for your first Irish dance competition can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure what’s expected.
The good news is that for a first feis, keeping things simple is absolutely the right approach. You don’t need an elaborate costume to take part — a neat, well put-together outfit is widely accepted and allows dancers to focus on their performance.
What to Wear for Your First Feis
For most beginners, a first feis outfit consists of:
- A black leotard
- An Irish dance skirt
- Poodle socks
This combination creates a clean, smart look that is commonly worn at feiseanna and is fully suitable for competition.
Black Leotard
A long sleeve black leotard provides a neat and secure base. Styles with a higher neckline and simple detailing, such as a keyhole back, give a polished appearance on stage.
Irish Dance Skirt
A circular Irish dance skirt completes the outfit, giving shape and movement while keeping the overall look simple and competition-ready.
Poodle Socks
Bright white poodle socks complete the look. We would recommend starting with a fresh pair for a dancer’s first feis — new socks always look their best on stage and can give a small but meaningful confidence boost.
Plain or diamante styles are both perfectly acceptable, so this often comes down to personal preference.
What Not to Worry About
It’s very common for first-time parents to wonder whether a full solo dress is required.
For a first feis:
- A solo dress is not necessary
- A wig is not necessary – tidy hair in a ponytail or a small bun is absolutely fine
- Simple outfits are completely normal
- Most dancers compete this way at the beginner level
The focus of a first feis is to enjoy the experience. You will usually see dancers and parents from your own class, as well as those from other schools. Feiseanna can be busy, noisy and a little chaotic at times — but they are also great fun.
They can feel stressful for parents at first, but keeping things simple really does help everyone enjoy the day. Look out for familiar faces so you can share the experience together. More experienced parents and dancers are always happy to help — whether that’s explaining grades and recalls, helping with hair, or even tying shoes.
Don’t be afraid to ask.
Optional Extras to Complete the Look
Once the main outfit is sorted, a few additional items can help finish the look:
- Diamante number clip – a more secure and polished way to attach your competition number than safety pins, while adding a touch of sparkle
- Tiara or hair bow – adds a bit of stage presence, but not essential
What to Bring to Your First Feis
Experienced dancers will always bring a few essentials to competitions:
- Hair grips and hair ties – to keep everything neat and secure
- Safety pins or number clips – for attaching your competition number
- Spare socks or tights – useful in case of marks or last-minute changes
- A small bag for shoes and accessories – keeps everything organised
- Water and snacks – competitions can involve a lot of waiting around
Being prepared helps the day run more smoothly and keeps the focus on dancing.
As You Progress
As dancers gain experience, many choose to move on to more advanced shoes and costumes. However, for a first feis, a simple and well-fitted outfit is the best place to start.
Ready to Put Your Outfit Together?
- Shop Black Leotards
- Shop Irish Dance Skirts
- Shop Poodle Socks
- Shop Diamante Number Clips