Here at First Dance Studios we often get asked this question. What should I wear to ballet? What clothing do I need for Zumba? I shall outline a few outfits ideas that can work for you and your budget. Dance wear is varied and often tailored for each dance or fitness discipline. However to dance with us either in studio at Heather Farm, Woking or at home when you join us online, feel free to choose what you prefer. If you need some advice on dance wear, please read on for some ideas.
Dance Outfit of the Day
Here we go, we are giving you the DOOTD! Which ever dance discipline or fitness activity you choose when you join us most outfits are really personal choice. For those that have grown up going to Ballet Baby classes and progressed through the RAD and ISTD classes, outfits were very much pre-determined and very uniform. For example I recall wearing specially branded leotards that would change colour for each ballet level, peach pink tights and leather ballet slippers with pink satin ones for shows and performances. However in our adult dance and fitness classes here at the studios in Woking, Surrey and/or online, the outfit of the day choice is up to you!
So what can I wear to ballet class then?
While ballet is a dance discipline it can get warm after barre exercises so we find layering works very well. Many who come to class wear leggings and a t-shirt just like for going to the gym or for a run. Some dancers like to wearing tights with shorts or ballet skirts or shorts. Some choose sports vests or tops. Cardigans, jumpers and hoodies are often used at the start to keep warm. As ballet gets warm and involves jumps many of us wear outfits that allow for movement. Have a look at the ballet belles in this image. Leggings or tights, shorts or skirt, t-shirt, long sleeved cardigan. Your dance, your choice.
What about dance wear for tap classes?
The same principle applies. Our lovely tap dancers have worn anything from t-shirts, tops, leggings, shorts, jeans. So whenever you fancy joining us in class then wear what makes you comfy. It also depends on how many classes you come to and when you have clothes wash days. If you come once a week that is very different if you dance almost every day.
Do I need to spend a lot of money on dance wear?
Simply, spend what you can and want to. Be it shorts, tops, leotards, rights, skirts, you choose. I love to wait for the sales and cherry pick any clothing I see can work for dance classes. From long t-shirt dresses to floaty skirts and loading up on leggings make your dance wardrobe your own.
Where do I buy dance wear from?
Ok, let’s get down to dance wear details. In the past many of us have enjoyed a trip into London, popped into Freed, Bloch or Dancia International right in the heart of theatre land in Covent Garden. The fun days we’ve spent being fitted for ballet and tap shoes as well as jazz sneakers. It has now been quite a while since we’ve been able to physically go and play around with clothing so some of our favourite dance wear websites include;
Movedancewear
Dancia International
Bloch
Suits you dancer
We feel that you can dance your best when you are dressed in a way that makes you feel comftblbe. We are all shapes and sizes and at different stages of life. Whether you have wobbly bits, curvy bits, straights parts, you all look fantastic to us so wear whatever feels good to you. Do you prefer shorts as your legs get very warm? Then do it. Do you prefer wearing vest tops as you sweat a lot if not? Then do it. Do you prefer to wear loose clothing to cover those bumps? Then do it. Cotton, jersey, spandex, nylon, even a onesie just come to dance and fitness sessions in whatever you want.
For further details on our adult dance classes, please take a look here.
Dance for you,
xx
FAQs
Choose clothing that allows for ease of movement, such as leggings or dance shorts paired with a comfortable top. If you're unsure about the dress code, check with the dance studio in advance. Additionally, invest in a pair of proper dance shoes that are suitable for the style you're learning.
What should I wear to my first dance lesson? ›
Most of our beginners come straight from work or have plans afterwards. It's common to see many of them arriving in business casual work attire. Some dancers also choose to wear jeans and a T-shirt, while others prefer stretchy yoga pants. As long as you're comfortable, that's all that matters.
What do you wear to a dance studio? ›
Ladies can choose to wear fitted tops, such as tank tops or crop tops, paired with comfortable bottoms like leggings or dance skirts. For men, a well-fitted t-shirt or button-down shirt, along with dance pants or slacks, will do the trick.
Why do dance studios have dress codes? ›
A dress code ensures that all dancers will have adequate mobility during class or rehearsal. Improper clothing can impact technique, precision, ability to grip the floor, and visibility. This is especially important to remember when performing group and partnering choreography.
What shoes to wear to a first dance lesson? ›
Shoes with a leather or suede sole are best if you have them. For a beginner, you don't have to invest in a ballroom dance shoe just yet… and if it is something you want to buy, just ask one of the instructors in the studio; they have some great recommendations for shoes.
How do you not look awkward during first dance? ›
Create a sequence that can be repeated at certain times in the music. For instance, make a set of moves that both of you dance whenever the chorus drops. If your song has the same chorus three times, that's already three parts of the song you have steps for. Repetition allows you and your future spouse to relax.
How should I wear my hair for dance class? ›
HAIR: Hair must be up and away from the face. Buns are required for ballet classes; tight ponytails are required for all other classes.
What is dance studio etiquette? ›
Dancers show respect for others by: keeping their hands to themselves during class, waiting quietly for others to have a turn, waiting until the music is finished before entering the classroom if they are late to class, and talking only when spoken to by the instructor (or asking a question).
Can you wear shoes in dance studio? ›
Any clothes you can move freely in such as leggings and t-shirt. Shoes - bare feet or jazz shoes. Leisure trainers also work for diva, and spilt sole teaching shoes are great for burlesque.
What not to wear to a dance audition? ›
The biggest faux pas that I constantly see are women wearing drop-crotch pants, baggy flannel shirts tied around waists and too many accessories. Instead, dancers should wear form-fitting clothing that shows their lines and that they are in shape. Even at a hip-hop audition, directors want to see your legs.
Wearing one dark color allows teachers to see the line of the body and correct for proper technique. Baggy clothing can hide bad habits preventing growth as a dancer. Think about a pointe dancer, if the dance teacher can't see the dancer's posture or leg alignment, the ballet dancer could seriously injure themselves!
What is a good dress code for dance? ›
Dancers should wear clothing that is form-fitting for instructors to see alignment and allows movement without restriction. Attire should provide proper coverage at all times, including through movement.
What are the three requirements for dance costumes? ›
“A good costume incorporates three major things: the concept, the right fabric and a conversation with the dancer. A costume always has to be rooted within the concept of the piece.
What should I wear to my first dance? ›
Not only will a flowy dress free you up for your first dance, it will also ensure you are comfortable for the rest of the night. If you have a long train and don't plan on changing into a separate dress, bustling your dress is a great idea so that you don't trip on the dance floor.
What is the best color for dance shoes? ›
For your first pair of shoes, you'll want to go with something neutral: tan or black is best. Tan shoes are great because you can wear them with any outfit. The shoes will blend in with your legs, and the dance floor.
Do shoes matter when dancing? ›
It doesn't matter whether you're a competing professional or a total beginner, good dance shoes are an absolute necessity if you want to perform to your best and progress as a dancer. Dance floors come in many shapes, sizes and surface materials and, as a result, can be notoriously fickle things.
What should a beginner wear to a dance class? ›
Many who come to class wear leggings and a t-shirt just like for going to the gym or for a run. Some dancers like to wearing tights with shorts or ballet skirts or shorts. Some choose sports vests or tops. Cardigans, jumpers and hoodies are often used at the start to keep warm.
What should I wear to my first school dance? ›
Appropriate semi-formal wear includes nice pants, dresses, skirts, blouses and sweaters, button-down shirts, and shoes other than runners/sneakers. If you're going to a formal dance, you may have to buy a new outfit, or pull out something you don't wear very often. This could include a formal dress or a suit.
What should I wear for my first time line dancing? ›
Opt for well-fitted jeans that have some stretch to ensure ease of movement. Leggings or yoga pants: Ideal for line dancing or country swing, these bottoms offer excellent flexibility and comfort. Skirts or dresses: For a touch of femininity, consider twirling in a flowy skirt or dress.
What should I wear to my first ballet lesson? ›
You want to wear clothes that are tight-fitting and show your form. This could be a leotard and tights or tight-fitting exercise clothes. It is possible to wear socks to your first few classes, but you'll want to get a pair of ballet shoes sooner than later.
