How to Dress for an Adult Ballet Class

When taking an adult ballet class, many studios leave the choice of clothing to the discretion of the student. However, there are certain styles, colors and fabrics that separate a serious student from a person simply filling in for a missed spin class. This guide illustrates how to select a simple, comfortable class outfit that flatters the body and allows free movement.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cotton leotard, with low-cut leg openings
• Dance tights in pink or black
• Snug-fitting cotton pants
• Snug-fitting cotton shirt
• Pink ballet slippers
• Chiffon ballet skirt
• Hair elastic or barrette

1. Select a leotard made of natural fibers that flatters the body. It's desirable to wear clothing that breathes, so cotton leotards are best. Shiny fabrics and nylon can look tacky, so avoid these. For a ballet class, a low-cut leotard is suitable; high cut legs are appropriate for jazz and modern classes. Another suitable choice is a unitard, which is a leotard with legs.

2. Find a pair of tights that will suit your needs. Adults have the liberty of wearing either ballet pink or black tights. Often, students buy two pairs so that they can layer the tights for warmth. Convertible footed tights are best, because the mood may strike to wear the tights around the ankle, instead of in the shoe. Convertible tights are also useful for mending blisters during pointe class.There will often be a choice between seamed and plain tights. The seamed ones make your legs look longer, so many favor them.

3. Purchase a form-fitting shirt and pants for layering when the muscles are still cold. Stay away from baggy clothing, since the instructor needs to be able to view the lines of the body. Cotton yoga pants are fantastic for this, as are tight, thin sweaters from many popular stores. Items with cuffs are verboten, since the foot can get caught in the turned-up fabric and cause injury.

4. Wear good, sturdy soft ballet slippers. Buy quality shoes in either leather or canvas. Well-fitted shoes can be worn without elastic sewn in, but make sure to tighten the elastic as much as possible. Purchase them in ballet pink, since candy pink can look young.

5. Often, people like to wear a pretty ballet skirt to wear for center floor exercises. Add one to the wardrobe for an affordable, pretty variation that looks great in the mirror.

6. Make certain to secure hair soundly in a ponytail or bun. Loose hair is a distraction, and could get in your field of vision.

Tips & Warnings

• Make your first set of clothing purchases in black, since it flatters practically every form, looks neat, and wears well.
• Check the local Goodwill or thrift store for warm-up gear. Rather than paying top dollar, it's possible to find several good options for cheap.
• Often, dance clothing runs small. If in doubt, always purchase the next size up. Keep the tags on in case a return is needed later.
• Many dance studios have discount agreements with local dance supply shops. All that is needed is a letter from the school or a class card. Always make certain to ask before purchasing anything to save 10% or more.
• If necessary, purchase and wear foundation garments in order to avoid embarrassing wardrobe malfunctions. A good sports bra is a must for women with large chests.

Resources

• Mirella Dance Collection
• Capezio Dance - look for their outlet locations