Though it can't be tabbed as a tribal outfit, the fancy dance outfit is generally divided into Northern Plains and Southern Plains styles. Northern usually has some fringing on the capes and aprons along with longer beaded harness sets. However in the last few years, this distinction is becoming increasingly blurred as the two styles cross pollinate each other. The most obvious items in the fancy dance outfit are great amounts of loom beaded sets of suspenders, belt cuffs, headband, armbands. The designs are usually matching in all items and of a rainbow feather or geometric design.
Beaded medallions are on the forehead and bustles are also quite common.
Occasionally a breastplate will be used in place of the beaded suspenders or in conjunction with them. The other trademark for fancy dancers is the use of large feather bustles. Currently most bustles are color-coordinated with the beadwork by using large amounts of feather hackles dyed the appropriate colors. Small matching hackle bustles are sometimes worn as armbands. Hanging beneath the bottom bustle are a pair of trailers, usually with some ribbon work, made from navy blue, black or red wool.