As a dancer, one of the most important things you cannot ignore is to have proper attire. It does not matter whether you are experienced or a beginner, you require support and comfort. In this blog we will guide you through the clothing that you need for your ballet class.

Key Elements to Consider When Selecting A Dance Class Outfit

Choosing an outfit for dance class is one of the most important things to consider. But what matters the most is how comfortable this clothing is. To ensure full range of motion, consider stretchable and breathy clothing. The dancewear should be made from the materials such as nylon, cotton, or spandex. This is because they provide both comfort and flexibility to the wearer, while they are involved in dancing activity. It is important to search for pieces that are neither too loose nor too tight, otherwise, these may create distractions or hindrances while moving in your dance classes.

Dress Code for Ballet

1. Leotard

The standard attire for a ballet class starts with Leotards, available with several options. These include a range of styles, and colors. While purchasing one, make sure it accentuates the best features and suits your body shape. To ensure it supports full stretching, the fabric should be supportive and firm. Thus, it is easy for the dancer to remain comfortable and easy, while focusing on her body movements. To avoid adjusting yourself in the class, choose a leotard that fits well, according to your body.

2. Tights

The next important ballet attire besides a leotard is ballet tights. These should be flexible enough to provide support to the muscles and elongate the leg line. Tights range from those having heavier compression to the lighter ones to show the muscles off. For a ballet class, the common choice is to have pink and fleshy-toned tights. However, black tights are worn most commonly and regularly. However, one of the most common choices that go well with ballet shoes is convertible tights. Opaque or heavier also ensure unrestricted movement, and allow you to stretch to the fullest without worrying.

3. Ballet Slippers:

Ballet slippers or shoes are the third most important attire for ballet dancers. One of the advantages of ballet shoes/slippers is that it allows for strength development. Just like you need the correct tights and leotard, the same is the scenario with ballet slippers and shoes. However, for beginners, socks are also considered acceptable to gain a connection to the ground and feel the floor.

4. Hair:

For a ballet dancer, it is necessary to have their hair styled neatly. During the class, you should prevent it from getting in the way. One of the most popular hairstyles for ballet is a bun, however, other styles such as ponytails or braids are also accepted. 

The things you need for your hair include a fine hair net, a comb or brush, bobby pins, and large, sturdy 2- to 3-inch hairpins. Furthermore, you may also require fabric elastic hair bands, and avoid elastics with metal parts and rubber bands. Otherwise, you may end up losing the hairs that you adore the most.

5. Skirt

Even though skirts are considered optional, however, experienced ballet dancers prefer wearing them over their leotards. This gives them a more feminine look, particularly during the practice sessions in the dance center. Avoid wearing tutu skirts that are too voluminous and choose the simple ones instead. Thus, it will not get in the way or restrict movement during the class. While longer skirts look elegant and lengthy, short skirts show the skin off.

6. Warm Ups

The last item on the list for a ballet dancer is wearing a warm-up. Every dancer has to wear ripstop fabric, warm-up pants, shorts, arm warmers, or jumpsuits. These are ideally designed to keep the muscles warm and prevent the dancer from cramps.   

For Other Dance Classes (Jazz, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, etc.):

1. Dressy Jeans

You can dress up with classic yet comfortable jeans if you want to gear up for a jazz party. The women who want to become a part of it can choose to wear Mid-rise 5-button skinny dark jeans. On the other hand, men wear versatile, flattering, trendy, and stylish slim-fit dark jeans.

2. Leather

A touch of leather adds a little edge to your dance outfit. These may range from a gorgeous leather skirt to a fitted leather jacket. You can further choose leather accessories, trim, or bags to add further style.

3. Footwear:

As far as footwear is concerned, every dance has its own pair of shoes to wear. For Jazz, you may use jazz sneakers or jazz shoes. On the other hand, contemporary dance requires either half-socks, barefoot, or simple socks. In hip-hop, you need to wear clean sneakers for studio purposes only.

4. Hair:

The hairstyle for jazz, hip-hop, or contemporary dancing is the same as that of ballet. You should ensure that the hair stays away from your face hence, you need to tie your hair back during the practice sessions.

Conclusion

The main goal of dance couture is to bridge the gap between dance culture and high-end wear. As compared to student dancers, an adult dancer does not have many strict rules of uniform. L'atelier Tutu helps you decide on the dance couture for yourself and your loved ones.