Our Guide to Finding the Perfect Dance Leotard

Whether you're a ballet dancer gearing up for "The Nutcracker" or a contemporary dancer prepping for your next studio recital, finding the right leotard is key. A well-fitting leotard can make you feel confident on stage while an ill-fitting one can be distracting and limit your movement. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to find the perfect dance leotard, from styles and materials to sizing and top brands like Carolina Dancewear.

Leotard Styles

The most common leotard styles for dancers include:

Tank Leotard

Tank leotards have thin straps and a scooped neckline, providing maximum mobility in the shoulders and arms. They are a classic style for ballet.

Camisole Leotard

Camisole leotards have thicker straps that provide more support than a tank. They are popular for styles like contemporary dance.

Long Sleeve Leotard

For dancers who want their arms covered, long sleeve leotards keep you warm during rehearsals or performances. Look for ones with fabric that doesn't restrict movement.

Leotard Materials

The most common materials for dance leotards include:

Cotton

Cotton is very breathable but not usually recommended for performances as it shows sweat. It's a good choice for dance classes.

Nylon

Nylon is durable, quick drying, and won't show sweat marks like cotton. It's a top choice for performances.

Lycra/Spandex

The stretch of lycra and spandex makes it very comfortable and allows for a full range of motion. Look for ones with at least 80% spandex for the best stretch and recovery.

Leotard Sizing

Dance leotard sizing can vary between brands, so it's important to check size charts carefully. Measure your bust, waist and hip to find your correct size.

Many brands, like Carolina Dancewear, offer both youth and women's sizing. Be sure to order from the appropriate section for your measurements.

Top Dance Leotard Brands

When searching for the perfect leotard, consider top brands known for their quality dancewear like:

Carolina Dancewear

A beloved brand amongst dancers, Carolina Dancewear is known for comfortable, flattering leotards in the latest styles. Their #ballettok collection featuring black leos has taken TikTok by storm.

Capezio

For over 100 years Capezio has been outfitting dancers from professionals to students. Their leotards are made with high-quality materials to withstand rigorous dance.

Danshuz

Specializing in dancewear, Danshuz offers unique print and color options. Their Stay-Tucked Technology keeps ruching and edges neatly in place throughout classes and performances.

FAQs

What is the difference between a dance leotard and a yoga top?

Dance leotards are designed for movement and choreography with features like built-in cups for support during jumps and turns. Yoga tops focus more on breathing room and may not provide the same shaping or coverage needed for dance.

How do I take care of my leotards?

Hand wash leotards in cold water with a gentle detergent to preserve the fabric and stitching. Air dry completely to prevent shrinking. Store folded or on a hanger to prevent stretching.

How often should I replace my leotards?

Nylon leotards can typically last 1-2 years with proper care. Look for signs of wear like thinning fabric, loose stitching or discoloring to know when it's time for a new one.

What color or style of leotard is appropriate for each dance genre?

Ballet typically calls for solid colors like pink, blue or black. Jazz and contemporary favor bright colors or prints. Check with your studio for their uniform requirements for each class.

How can I support dance brands like Carolina Dancewear?

Follow your favorite dancewear designers and retailers on social media to stay up to date on new launches and sales. Leave positive reviews when you love a product. Sharing looks with brand hashtags like #dancestore and #leotardcheck helps to grow the dance community.