How To Select the Right Leotards for Dancing

Whether you dance ballet, modern jazz, contemporary or lyrical, the leotard is a piece of clothing you’ll be very closely acquainted with. The leotard is perhaps the most ubiquitous dancewear, chosen for complementing the dancer’s body. Its simplicity can easily be redone or customized for more elaborate dance costumes. That’s why choosing the right leotard is as important as ten-minute warm ups.

Because it is worn for a number of dances and activities, leotards are available almost anywhere you look. Still, you need to consider a few things when purchasing your next set.

1. It’s best consult with your dance instructor first, especially if you’re buying leotards for a student dancer. Even during practices, dance teachers still want participants to wear leotards to have a better view of body lines and movement. Know if they want you to wear a specific type of leotard during rehearsals, what color, design, or brand they would suggest for the class. Capezio-made leotards are renowned in the dance circuit, along with M. Stevens and Natalie. They offer leotards in different cuts and styles, such as tanks, long sleeve, camisole, short sleeve, halter, leotards with frills and leotards with skirts.

2. A good part of your search will involve finding the leotards the fits you perfectly. Choosing an ill-fitted leotard can mean a disastrous performance. A little loose and you’re movement is impeded, go too tight and you’ll have a harder time moving, breathing and will probably look unseemly on stage. Dance clothing such as leotards must fit well, snug but not too tight, and definitely not too big, lest you like the outfit to wrinkle around your body as you dance.

3. When you’re in a store, don’t hesitate to try the leotard on before buying it. Don’t rely on the size system of your ordinary clothes. Dance clothing has a different size measurement that you should early on consult to find the best size for you.There are practically a myriad of leotard designs to choose from. If you’ll only use it for practicing, choose a design or color that encourages you to move, persevere with a hard move or stunt, and best flatter your skin tone.

4. Consider the material used for making your dance clothes. For use in weekly rehearsals, choose fabrics that are easy to clean and even machine washable. Leotards made of lighter and more delicate fabrics are reserved for staged performances so you don’t have to hand wash them every time. Nylon and Lycra are the most common and durable types of leotards. There are also leotards with print, sequins, and pained over.

5. Color blocking isn’t a problem with dance leotards. Think of the theme and concept of your dance and pick colors that suit them well. Play with contrasts or blend in with the backdrop if your character calls for it. The best way to determine the right color is getting one that highlights the body’s movement. Bold and deep colors pitches for strong stage presence, while Velour textures add that touch of glamour.

Alyce Dance Wear provides you the most reliable selection of dance wear including leotards for any kind of dance type. Check out www.alycedancewear.com.