What are the shoes called in Irish dancing?

Female dancers wear soft leather lace-up shoes called ghillies (or pomps) for light jig dances, and heavy shoes with fiberglass heels and tips for treble dances.

Why do Irish dancers wear curly hair?

Historically, dancers curled their hair for church and Sunday competitions. Today, bouncy ringlets are a traditional aesthetic that adds movement and stage presence.

How can I make a DIY Irish dance dress?

Start with a solid-colored long-sleeve skater dress, stiffen the skirt with crinoline underneath, and apply gold fabric paint or iron-on Celtic knot appliques to the chest and hem.

Irish Dancer

Irish Dancer Costume

Bring the energy of Irish dance to life with vibrant Celtic style.

The Irish dancer costume is a celebration of traditional Celtic culture, rhythm, and athletic grace. Popular for St. Patrick's Day, cultural events, and Halloween, this look is defined by its highly structured, brightly colored embroidered dress and distinctive footwear. Whether you are aiming for a competitive solo dress look or a classic school costume, this guide helps you assemble the perfect ensemble.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: ~45 min
Budget: $45–150

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What you need for a Irish Dancer costume

Short on time? Buy it ready-made

Spirit Halloween sells the complete Irish Dancer costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.

Shop Irish Dancer at Spirit ↗

Embroidered long-sleeve dress
A structured, A-line dress featuring long sleeves, a stiff pleated skirt, and colorful Celtic knot embroidery or applique.
DIY: Decorate a long-sleeved green or black skater dress with gold fabric paint or iron-on Celtic knot patches.
Amazon
White poodle socks
Thick, ribbed white crew socks that bunch up slightly above the ankle.
DIY: Use thick, ribbed white athletic crew socks pushed down slightly.
Amazon
Black ghillies or soft shoes
Lace-up black leather dance shoes with criss-cross laces across the top of the foot.
DIY: Wear black ballet flats with black laces wrapped criss-cross around your ankles.
Amazon
Tiara or hair crown
A small, sparkling tiara or a fabric-covered headband matching the dress colors.
DIY: Decorate a wide plastic headband with matching colored sequins or fabric.
Amazon
Number card
A white card printed with a competitor number, pinned to the front of the dress skirt.
DIY: Print a three-digit number on white cardstock and attach it to the skirt with safety pins.
Amazon

Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Irish Dancer costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗

How to put it together

1
Put on the long-sleeved embroidered dress, ensuring the skirt sits stiffly in an A-line shape.
2
Pull on the white poodle socks, adjusting them so they are evenly bunched just above the ankle.
3
Slip into the black ghillies or lace-up flats, wrapping the laces securely around your foot and ankle in a criss-cross pattern.
4
Style your hair into tight, bouncy curls or secure a pre-styled curly hairpiece to the back of your head.
5
Place the tiara or decorated headband securely at the crown of your head.
6
Pin the competitor number card to the left side of your skirt hem using safety pins.

Makeup & hair

Style your hair in voluminous, tight ringlet curls, or pull it back into a high bun with a curly hairpiece. Keep makeup bright and stage-ready with rosy cheeks, defined eyeliner, and a classic red or pink lipstick.

Irish Dancer for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair with a partner dressed as an Irish musician carrying a tin whistle or accordion.
group: Form a group of dancers wearing matching school-style skirts, black leotards, and sashes for a synchronized team look.
kids: A simple green skater dress with gold trim, white socks, and black flats makes a comfortable, lightweight version.
Plus size: Opt for a structured A-line dress with a supportive bodice and stretch side panels for comfort.
pet: A green pet bandana with gold Celtic embroidery.

Tips

Use sock glue or double-sided tape to keep your poodle socks from slipping down while walking.
If using a curly wig or hairpiece, secure it with plenty of bobby pins so it stays put during movement.
Practice standing with straight posture and arms held flat at your sides for authentic photos.

Irish Dancer costume FAQ

What are the shoes called in Irish dancing?: Female dancers wear soft leather lace-up shoes called ghillies (or pomps) for light jig dances, and heavy shoes with fiberglass heels and tips for treble dances.
Why do Irish dancers wear curly hair?: Historically, dancers curled their hair for church and Sunday competitions. Today, bouncy ringlets are a traditional aesthetic that adds movement and stage presence.
How can I make a DIY Irish dance dress?: Start with a solid-colored long-sleeve skater dress, stiffen the skirt with crinoline underneath, and apply gold fabric paint or iron-on Celtic knot appliques to the chest and hem.

Did you know? The stiff, heavily embroidered dresses worn today evolved from the 'Celtic Revival' movement of the early 20th century, which sought to promote traditional Irish culture through art, language, and dance.