Cheer Extreme's dazzling, stylish uniform at Cheer Worlds 2012

It was amazing to see all of the different uniforms on display at Cheerleading Worlds last weekend. Not only is this THE sporting event of the year for the cheerleading community around the world (think the Superbowl, UEFA Cup, NASCAR, Masters Cup and World Series put together) but it's also our very own equivalent of NY, London and Paris fashion week. Year after year, the teams parade around sporting the latest fashions in cheerleading uniforms, hoping to be the trendsetters for the year to come.

Top Gun 2012 Uniforms and their infamous capri pants... the trend?

Always at the forefront of cheer fashion avant-garde and never too scared to dare (remember the tube tops from 2011..!?), Top Gun’s new uniform was what everybody was talking and tweeting about. This year keeping it simple with the unsual twist of capri-style leggings, their uniform really stood out. Considering the amount of skin that was on show last year by the same team, we can't help but be relieved that they have done a complete 180. Verdict: sporty, family-friendly, and stylish. 10/10 for effort!

Cheer Athletics sporting their new cheer uniform at Worlds

Cheer Athletic Cheetahs also sparked some envy in their cropped white tops with long sleeves featuring electric blue animal print. Maryland Twisters F5 used a black mesh section across the middle of their uniform, contrasting well with the boldness of their blue. Cheer Extreme’s uniform had lots of sparkle with a very sweet halter detailing in the shape of an X around the neck in contrasting black, teal and white.

Just a few days previously, teams at ICU wore their countries' uniforms, bringing an amazing array of colours to the stage at the Worlds. Some uniforms were verging towards the "let's cut some holes in our flag " and wear it on the mat, whilst others were able to translate the flag into an elegant uniform design.

Team Australia's Uniforms at ICU Worlds 2012

Korea had interesting detailing on the neck of their uniform, layering pieces of fabric; whilst Australia went bold with dazzling blue, full-length tops and short skirts adorned with the white stars from their flag (just a shame that the stars from far looked a bit more like giant polka dots). China’s uniform was fun in a bold mix of purple and white with a pleated skirt with yellow detailing. Team Canada's uniform showed how to elegantly use the flag as inspiration for a uniform - the maple leaf motif here was put to great use - a fantastic design!

It is so exciting to see all of the new, inventive creations that the teams wear - we can’t wait to see what'll come next.  It should be particularly interesting since the USASF announced rule changes affecting uniform design and fit that will come in to place for the 2013-2014 season. 

Top Gun's Uniforms in 2011... too much skin?

USASF outlined the new rules which they say are to “promote the safety of the all-star cheer athletes and to help grow the sport. These changes would enhance the sport and were necessary.” Uniform tops can no longer expose the midriff (apart from seniors) making the uniforms much less sexualised. Skirts have to cover the “hip and fall at least one inch below briefs. Shorts must have a minimum of a two inch inseam." These changes come at a time when we have seen uniforms becoming more and more skimpy. USASF argue that covering up and using discretion for younger cheerleaders will be much more appropriate and makes the image of competitive cheer much more athletic.

One of the more controversial and specific rules will sanction the size of cheer bows. In recent years these have become an essential accessory, but some question their peacocking effect where the bigger and bolder the better. Do bows enhance visual effect, production value and overall appeal - or do they distract? Whichever way you feel about it, some teams will have to wave goodbye at their oversized 'mickey-mouse' ears, and will have to keep the hair flair under 3 inches in width.

Juicy Couture may have trouble selling their designer cheer bows after 2013..!

Monica Anderson Young from Troy University said of the changes on Inside Cheerleading’s website “Excellent changes related to image. Sometimes we are so passionate about the beauty of this sport that we lose sight of the potential damage of encouraging young girls to look older than they are.”

Changing the rules has been slightly controversial with cheerleaders, coaches and parents alike.  We are curious to find out what the worldwide cheer community makes of these developments. What are your views on the rule changes? Do you agree or do you think that the USASF have gone too far? We would love to hear what you think.

Kiara modeling GK's new uniform valued at over $5,000 featuring over 13,000 Swavardski Crystals

You can take a look at all of the rule changes on the USASF website. Please post your comments below (you will need to sign into CheerCoach.net as a member to do this first, but it's very quick and free!)

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