Costuming Midriff Policy

Costuming Midriff Policy for Missouri Dance Team Association in St. Charles Missouri

Revised Apparel Guidelines: "Missouri's Modesty Rule"

  • Modesty Rule for Dance Costumes: Missouri dance teams are expected to wear costumes that are appropriate for education-based activities and approved by the local school administration for performances and competitions. It is the school coach(es) responsibility to be knowledgeable of all NFHS and MSHSAA rules regarding dance and to covey these rules to any company or individual providing a service to the school team (i.e. choreographers, seamstress, prop designer, etc.).
  • When the participant is standing at attention, no part of the buttocks, breast, or midriff shall be visible.
  • Costumes and/or leotards must be at a minimum a brief cut. 
  • Midriff is defined in Missouri as:
    • area between the bottom of the rib cage to the top of the hip bone.
    • On the back, the cut cannot be below the natural waist line which is the top of the hip bone.  The opening in the back does not have to have material inserted; the back can be opened and bare skin. The back opening cannot go into the sides. 
  • Bare skin, nude-colored coverings or any material that gives the illusion of flesh shall not be part of the costume in the midriff area.
  • Footwear must comply with NFHS Rule 4-1-5.
  • Participants shall not be permitted to perform/compete in illegal attire.

Penalties will be assessed  at the MDTA State Championship.

For all questions regarding costuming, contact Brett Elder @ [email protected]