Starting out as a dancer can be scary enough without the additional stress of what to wear to a dance class. Wearing the proper attire and proper dance shoes can prevent embarrassment or make you feel self-assured on the dance floor. As a new adult taking ballet, a parent prepping your child for the dance recital, or a student new to dance class, proper attire for dance will enable you to learn rather than fret over fashion mistakes.
Options for Adults
Adult dancers need less restriction in their dance wear. Body-hugging outfits where the instructor may read posture perform ideally. Leggings or close shorts and tank top or tee shirt allow just the right amount of coverage and movement. Baggy outfits that obscure posture or get caught on turns and jumps need to go.
For ballet class, a typical leotard and tights are acceptable in the majority of studios, though adult dancers do not need to wear tights. If more coverage is needed, a long-sleeved stretch top is best. The trick is to select stretch fabric that can move freely with the body, ensuring you have comfortable clothes for dancing.
Hair should be kept back tightly, particularly if the hair is long enough to be getting into your way when performing an across-the-floor movement. A low ponytail or bun keeps the hair aside and demonstrates respect towards the classical dance tradition.
Tips for Parents of New Dancers
Parents worry about having the “perfect” dance class outfit for their child’s first class. Most dance schools specify dress codes, so play it safe and opt for stretchy athletic wear. Leggings and a tight-fitting t-shirt give kids mobility and enable their instructors to view their posture and technique.
Steer clear of clothes that have zippers, buttons, or other adornments that can scratch fellow dancers when performing partner work. Jewelry also should be minimal – a few small stud earrings are probably all right, but dangling accessories can be distracting or dangerous.
Most young dancers will feel better about themselves if they look the part. A plain leotard can give the child the impression that he or she is a “real” dancer. Don’t buy expensive clothes for a dance, however, until you are sure the child will continue as a student.
Shoes That Can Dance
The proper footwear is also needed for safety purposes and also for technique. For ballet class, use soft leather or canvas ballet slippers to provide the proper amount of flexibility for your feet without getting in the way. Don’t wear stiff-soled or grip-heavy shoes that inhibit turns and glides.
Jazz and modern classes usually call for jazz shoes or foot undies, which are more supportive than a ballet slipper but not stiff enough to cause issues for floor work. A few instructors require dancers to dance barefoot, so inquire at your school before you buy shoes.
Never take street shoes into a dance studio rental in Pearland, TX, because shoes will ruin floors and won’t be able to offer the kind of flexibility required to execute proper technique. Most studios are very strict about proper floor wear, so buying proper dance shoes is a gesture of respect for the studio and other dancers.
Comfort and Preparation to Build Confidence
The appropriate dance apparel does more than suffice at the studio level – it allows you to move freely and focus on learning. When you are comfortable in your apparel and footwear, you are able to learn steps and not have to constantly adjust your clothes.
Keep in mind that there was a time when every dancer was a beginner, despite whatever attire he/she had on when stepping into the first lesson. As important as adequate attire is, the motivation to learn takes precedence. Start with the basics, and don’t be afraid to reach out to our friendly team at Chara Christian Dance Academy with any questions.
