As a female scout, the two piece method has been a great modification. It makes it so much easier to go to the ladies room and not have to strip out of costume for a simple restroom break. I also can have half of my costume on before I get to a venue which is especially nice if you end up having to dress in a parking lot or mixed company. It happens more often than not that there is not a separate or modest changing area. I have used an extra wide belt elastic for my waistband of the trousers and the top with large snaps on the bands to keep it snugly together. It is also great if you have person with a larger bottom than top who needs to use two separate sizes to fit properly. I am a regular top with a a larger bottom. It is also great if your trooper is thin but very tall and needs more length in the torso to crotch area. In my experience, the more practical and comfortable the costume, the more fun it is to troop.