Convention Chic on a Budget (a.k.a. How Not to Go Broke for a Leo)

When I first started taking my dancer to conventions (pre-COVID times, back when we still packed snacks instead of entire survival kits), it felt like an unspoken rule that your dancer needed to stand out. Bright colors. Eye-catching sets. Basically, the louder the outfit, the better.

And I totally bought into it. For the record, I still think looking polished and put together helps your dancer feel confident walking into that ballroom full of talent. But I’ve also learned something important over the years: it doesn’t matter what your dancer wears if they don’t feel comfortable in it.

I once splurged on a leo for Rachel that was absolutely adorable. We’re talking magazine-worthy cute. But she hated it. She felt self-conscious, tugged at it constantly, and ended up ditching it halfway through for a basic convention tee. I remember sitting there, half laughing and half wanting to cry, realizing that no outfit is worth making your dancer feel miserable.

These days, Rachel’s convention look is… let’s call it “elevated hobo chic.” Oversized tee, comfy shorts, hair in a claw clip, the “I woke up like this” vibe. And honestly, I kind of miss the matching sets and sparkly leos, but I also love that she’s confident in her own skin. The outfit doesn’t make the dancer. The dancer makes the outfit.

Still, I know how expensive this world can be. Back in the day, I thought spending sixty to a hundred dollars for one new leo was normal. Spoiler alert: it’s not sustainable when you have multiple conventions, photoshoots, and team events each season. So how do you keep your dancer looking convention-ready without needing to sell a kidney?

Here are my go-to, tried and true, sometimes accidental genius tips for dressing your dancer on a budget.

1. Buy, Sell, and Trade Groups Are Gold

Facebook is basically the modern-day dancewear mall. There are entire groups dedicated to gently used or even brand-new dancewear and costumes. Perfect for that one-time-use photoshoot outfit or a convention weekend where you want a “new to you” look without paying retail.

A word of caution though. Always use secure payment methods. PayPal Goods and Services is your best friend. Never send money using Friends and Family unless you personally know the seller. I once called out a scammer (complete with reverse image search receipts) and got banned from a group for exposing them. Lesson learned: if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

2. Wait for the Sales

Between outlets, clearance racks, and end-of-season markdowns, there’s no reason to pay full price. Brands like Nike, Old Navy, and Lululemon rotate styles constantly. That same pair of shorts your dancer “must have” might be half off in a month. Sign up for emails, use discount codes, and be patient.

3. Cash Back Is Your Secret Weapon

If you aren’t using FlipGive or Swagbucks yet, you’re literally leaving free money on the table. FlipGive especially is a win-win if your dancer’s team participates. Buy the same things you were already going to get, earn a little back for yourself or your studio, and feel good knowing your cart just helped cover someone’s entry fees.

4. Thrift and Be Proud

Thrift stores, consignment shops, and even garage sales are treasure hunts for dancers. Some of Rachel’s favorite finds have been vintage tees from random band tours that her teachers love. Yes, she owns a Tool shirt. Yes, she wears it proudly. Yes, I’m raising her right. And every once in a while, you’ll stumble on an unworn leo or dancewear item that someone outgrew or never loved. Give it a second chance and save a ton.

Bonus: Where to Snag Deals Online

If you want to explore beyond the resale groups, here are some go-to spots that often run deep discounts or clearance sales:

• Discount Dance Supply – classic, reliable, and almost always has promo codes floating around

• Dancewear Solutions – affordable basics, fun prints, and clearance steals

• Just For Kix – another gem for comfy practice wear

• Poshmark and Mercari – use caution, but you can find brand-name sets for a fraction of the cost

• Facebook Marketplace – for the brave and bargain-hungry

The truth is, your dancer’s confidence will never come from a price tag. They’ll stand out because they show up, work hard, and shine in their own way. The outfit is just the wrapping paper. The magic is what’s inside.

And who knows, maybe one day I really will start my own dancewear consignment shop to help families find those dream pieces without the nightmare price tag.

Until then, keep dancing smart, spending smarter, and don’t forget to follow my site for more That Crazy Dance Mom stories and tips!