Dance competition season will be here in no time at all. Do you have the best dance costumes picked out for your performances? If not, then we're here to help. Here's a look at a few tried-and-true dance costume styles, as well as those on trend for 2018.

Open Front Skirts

When it comes to dance trends in 2018 -- and the best dance costumes -- drama is in. And you can get it with open front skirts. These skirts are long and flowy, often made from a mesh-like material. But most of all, they help to underscore your elegant movements on the stage. Not only that, they also add a bit of modern flair to the more traditional long dance skirt.

In addition, open front skirts offer you plenty of flexibility, too, as a dancer because you can pair them with any different number of tops and dance accessories. For instance, a crop top and briefs look great with open front skirts, as do leotards, whether they're in a bold, fresh color, or the standard black.

Bold Leotards

The core piece for your dance wardrobe is your leotard. While many dancers still opt for basic black, or more neutral beige and pink, bold can sometimes be better. Whether you're interested in a different color, or style altogether, you can set yourself apart on stage by the leotard you choose.

For instance, if you're looking to add some edge to your performance, consider leotards with a racerback, zip front, or halter style. They're still super easy to move in, yet at the same time offer a different and more exciting look than the basic black or pink ballerina leotard.

For something more sophisticated, consider a lace leotard or a long-sleeve one. One shoulder leotards can also add plenty of flair to your next performance.

Mesh Insets

Mesh can offer you the best of both worlds when it comes to the best dance costumes. Not only does it provide the coverage you want, but it also adds an edge from the sheerness of the material, as well as some texture, too. In terms of your dance costumes, mesh can be used in a variety of different ways. For instance, it can be an overlay in your leotard. It can also be used to add some extra drama to your favorite dance tops and briefs.

Another great thing about mesh is that it can break up the monochromatic look found on so many dance costumes. This adds some visual interest that will better help your performance stand out on the stage -- especially when you're doing a jazz number -- all while offering a modern and sophisticated look.

Cold Shoulder Leotards

Usually giving someone a cold shoulder is a bad thing. But when it comes to adding a cold shoulder into your dance costume, you'll be completely on trend for 2018. With it, you're essentially taking a classic -- the mock leotard -- and giving it a modern makeover with shoulder cutouts. This is the perfect look for so many different dance styles, whether you're doing a jazz performance, or a lyrical or contemporary one. Not only that, but it's a style that looks good on nearly everyone.

High-Waisted Dance Briefs

In the world of fashion, high-waisted pants and shorts have been the 'in' look for a while now, after making a big comeback a couple of years ago. This look was popular 20 years ago and today, it's even more so. What's great about the high-waisted brief is that they offer a different and often more comfortable look than the traditional dance short. They're also cut in a way that better complements the female figure, better hiding imperfections. You can pair this look with a wide variety of tops, including the classic top. Other options to pair with high-waisted dance briefs include a dance racerback bra or sequin camisole. Whatever you choose, adding these to your performance wardrobe will instantly upgrade it.

Bright Shades

In 2017, it was all about soft and romantic colors, like rose gold and smoky blues. But 2018 is shaping up to be a bit different. In the year ahead, some of the must-have colors are a bit brighter and bolder and lean more toward shades like yellows, lavender, violet, cherry tomato and blue. The good news is that neutrals are also still a popular choice. So if you're not super comfortable with a full on bright colored costume, consider instead simply incorporating some of these bolder hues into a small aspect of it. You'll add some color and interest, while still being on trend and feeling comfortable.

Dance Accessories

From dance legwarmers to ponchos to shrugs, they are many different ways you can add some elegance and sophistication to your dance performance wear with dance accessories. Even if you take a more classic approach with your costume -- and opt for choices like basic black -- you can bring your costume up a notch with the right accessories.

Ready to Shop for Your Next Dance Costume or Accessories?

Check out the best dance costumes and dance accessories at the Just for Kix online store. We offer a wide variety styles, designs and colors, so you can look your best on stage in today's trends.