What to Wear to Ballet Class: A Guide for Beginners
With the start of a new year, many people are setting goals and exploring new hobbies. If starting ballet class is on your list, you may find yourself wondering what to wear. Deciphering proper ballet attire can feel a bit intimidating, especially if you’re new to the dance world. Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through what to wear, whether you’re an adult taking your first class or a parent preparing your child for their ballet journey.
What Should I Wear to Ballet Class?
Whether you’re an adult stepping into a ballet studio for the first time or a parent enrolling your child in classes, the answer to this question varies. Let’s break it down:
Ballet Attire for Adults
If you’re an adult beginner, you might be relieved to know that you don’t need a professional ballet wardrobe right away. Many adult students wear comfortable workout clothes to their first classes, such as yoga pants or leggings paired with a fitted tank top or T-shirt. These options allow for ease of movement and help instructors see your alignment.
However, if you think you’re ready to commit to ballet classes, investing in the proper footwear—ballet shoes—is highly recommended. Ballet shoes come in two main types: leather and canvas. Leather shoes are often a better choice for beginners as they help strengthen your feet. For more information on this topic, check out our article: “Leather vs. Canvas Ballet Shoes: Why Leather Shoes Are Better for Strengthening Your Feet.”
If you prefer a more traditional ballet look, consider wearing a leotard and tights. This classic combination not only looks polished but also allows for optimal movement and alignment visibility. Feel free to ask your ballet instructor for guidance on what attire is best for your class.
For additional inspiration and tips, you might enjoy reading “The Benefits of Taking an Adult Dance Class.”
And don’t stress about perfecting a “ballet bun” with gel and hairspray. While a slicked-back bun is traditional, the key is to ensure your hair is secured and out of your face to avoid distractions during class.
Ballet Attire for Children
If your child is starting ballet, the first thing to do is check your studio’s dress code policy. Most studios require leotards and tights for children, but the specific color and style often vary based on the student’s level or class. For example, beginner classes may require light pink leotards, while advanced levels may have different requirements. Make sure to confirm these details with your studio to avoid confusion.
Proper footwear is also essential for young dancers. Similar to adults, leather ballet shoes are often recommended for beginners as they help build foot strength. You can ask your child’s instructor for recommendations on the best shoes for their needs.
If you’re in the process of selecting a dance studio for your child, take a look at “How to Choose the Right Dance Studio: Competition Dance vs Classical Training.”
Final Thoughts
We hope this article helps you feel more confident about what to wear to ballet class. Remember, the most important thing is to wear something comfortable and appropriate that allows you to focus on learning and enjoying the art of ballet. Whether you’re starting as an adult or helping your child begin their dance journey, proper attire is just one step toward making the experience rewarding and fun.
Have any tips or questions about ballet attire? Share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B.
