For class, most dancers of all ages simply wear whatever they feel most comfortable moving in, such as a T-shirt and shorts or leggings, although some schools may have a uniform they ask students to wear, such as a school-branded shirt. Talk to your teacher about appropriate footwear for your first class. In most cases, beginners can wear sneakers, ballet slippers, or other simple, comfortable footwear. As you continue your journey in Irish dance, you will likely want to purchase Irish dance shoes—typically soft shoes first, and then hard shoes as you become more advanced—especially if you plan to compete.

For competitions, adult dancers wear a wide range of outfits. Many dancers will wear a leotard and skirt or a simple shirt and pants, while some choose sparkly solo dresses or vests, and many choose an option somewhere in between. Most schools have a school costume option that dancers can wear, and many dressmakers offer cost-effective alternatives to their typical blinged-out offerings, which are very popular with adult dancers. Your teacher can advise you on some options for your first competition. Once you start competing you will get a great feel for the wide range of possibilities and can figure out what option empowers you to perform your best.