Someone posted a message about how they were distracted by their skirt during their program when competing. Many replied that they should do a few practice run throughs in full kit so they get used to it.
And here we are, back to tradition as even though females can compete in a skirt or pants, they still feel compelled in having to wear a dress.
In the early days of my skating, a few of the females wore dresses or skirts and most of the others a wore leggings and/or bun huggers.
If you’re practicing in non-skirted attire, then why not compete in the same? It’s not against the rules anymore, well, unless your in synchro, I don’t think they changed that one yet.