<P> Skaters are generally free to select their own attire, with a few restrictions . Partners are not required to have matching costumes . In competition, females may wear a dress, typically with matching attached briefs, and since 2004, they may also choose trousers . They may wear opaque flesh - colored leggings or tights under dresses and skirts, which may extend to cover their skates . Men must wear trousers--they are not allowed to wear tights . Skaters and family members may design their own costumes or turn to professional designers . According to current ISU regulations, costumes in competition "must be modest, dignified and appropriate for athletic competition--not garish or theatrical in design . Clothing may, however, reflect the character of the music chosen ." Although the use of flesh - colored fabric means the costumes are often less revealing than they may appear, there have been repeated attempts to ban clothing that gives the impression of "excessive nudity" or that is otherwise inappropriate for athletic competition . In general, accessories or props are not permitted in competition . The ISU allowed an exception for the original dance in the 2007--08 season but never since . </P> <P> Recreational ice dancers perform pattern dances (or set pattern dances). The pattern, steps, tempo, and hold are defined, and the style described . The dances are graded in order of difficulty, with the simplest being the Pre-Preliminary Dutch Waltz . In the 1970s there were only two' introductory' dances, then known as the' Foxtrot Movement' (now the Preliminary Foxtrot), and the' Preliminary Waltz' (now known as the British Waltz). About ten new dances were later introduced, most drawing on the steps of the established dances, and these provide a graduated progression towards the established dances . </P> <P> The ice surface may be used by up to a dozen recreational duos at the same time, unlike competitive ice dancing, where it is used by one duo at a time . </P> <Ul> <Li> List of figure skating competitions </Li> <Li> List of national championships in figure skating </Li> </Ul>

What is the difference between ice dance and pairs