History of Irish Dance Costumes

The traditional agricultural life of Old Ireland was isolated and full of hard work on the family farm. The community would look forward to Sundays when they would come together and celebrate Mass. The people would put on their best clothes for church. Girls put on their dress and their mothers would curl their hair using rags the night before. The tradition of curling hair began as a way to show respect for the Sacrament; to make the ordinary extraordinary. After Mass people would gather at the town's crossroads and meet with the neighboring town. Musicians would play and everyone, both young and old would participate in traditional group dances. This is how the tradition of Irish dancers wearing fancy dresses and curled hair began.

New Dunleavy Beginner Costume- Coming Soon!!

Dunleavy is currently in the design process for new beginner costumes! 

We believe that dancer's costumes should match their level of dancing.
The steps of a beginner dancer should be simple and neat, and so should their costume.
​As dancers advance, their steps become more embellished and their costumes reflect that. 

Our costumes represent our school.
We want them to be made from quality materials that uphold their value throughout the years. 
Costumes should be comfortable and allow the child to dance and move freely.
The costumes should unify the dancers as a team and  be something they feel proud to wear.
They should be family-friendly both in budget and in maintenance .