Dance Attire
Why Dance Attire is Important
Proper dance attire is an important part of every dancer’s training. It promotes safety, supports professional classroom habits, and allows instructors to clearly observe body alignment and technique.
Please review the universal expectations below, followed by the requirements for your dancer’s class style.
These expectations apply to all classes unless otherwise noted.
Dancewear
- Dancewear should be clean, fitted, and in good repair.
- Clothing should allow instructors to clearly see body alignment and technique.
- Sports bras may not be worn as a standalone top.
- Dance shoes should be reserved for studio use and should not be worn outdoors.
Hair and Jewelry
- Hair must be securely pulled back before class begins.
- Hairstyles should allow dancers to move freely without hair falling into their faces.
- Dangling jewelry is not permitted.
- Small stud earrings are acceptable unless otherwise noted.
Food and Drinks
- Food and gum are not permitted inside the dance studios.
- Water bottles are encouraged.
Warm-Ups and Cover-Ups
Dancers are encouraged to wear warm-ups or cover-ups before class and between classes, especially during colder months.
Once class begins, instructors may ask dancers to remove warm-ups so that proper alignment and technique can be observed. Expectations may vary slightly by teacher and will be communicated during the first few weeks of class.
Attire
- Any color leotard
- Pink or skin-tone tights
- Optional ballet skirt
Shoes
- Pink or skin-tone canvas or leather ballet shoes
Hair
- Ballet bun required
Attire
- Black leotard
- Pink or skin-tone tights
- Optional black fitted dance shorts or sheer ballet skirt
Shoes
- Pink or skin-tone canvas or leather ballet shoes
Hair
- Ballet bun required
Attire
- Solid-colored leotard
- One of the following:
- Dance tights with fitted dance shorts
- Fitted dance leggings
- Fitted dance pants
When fitted dance shorts are worn, dance tights must be worn underneath.
Hair
Hair must be securely pulled back away from the face in a ponytail, bun, braid, or another secure hairstyle.
Shoes by Style
Jazz
- Black or tan jazz shoes
Tap
- Black or tan tap shoes
Contemporary
- Half soles or pirouette shoes
- Dance socks, when approved by the instructor
Musical Theatre
- Jazz shoes
- Character heels are permitted beginning in Level III
Attire
- Leotard
- Dance tights, fitted shorts, or fitted leggings
- Bare feet required
Hair
- Hair may be worn in a low bun or ponytail.
Additional Safety Requirements
To protect students and studio equipment, acro clothing may not include:
- Zippers
- Buttons
- Metal embellishments
- Sharp accessories
Attire
- Fitted athletic shirt or dance top
- Athletic pants or sweatpants that extend to the ankle
- No jeans
- Sports bras may not be worn alone
Shoes
- Clean sneakers designated for studio use only
Hair
- Hair must be securely pulled back away from the face.
Supporting Dress Code Expectations
Students who repeatedly arrive out of dress code may be asked to observe portions of class until the issue has been corrected. We appreciate families’ partnership in helping every dancer arrive prepared, comfortable, and ready for a successful class.
