The parameters for a dance-studio outfit are much more lenient than the black-leotard-and-pink-tights days of yore. And while we would never tell someone exactly what to wear (do you!), we have a few recommendations based on your dance style of choice. Whether you’re a beginner or a Broadway star, dressing the part can help you boost your confidence and get into a groove. Let’s break things down.
Ballet: If you’re in a ballet school or conservatory program, there may be certain dress code rules to adhere to (e.g., the specific color of your leotard and tights). In college or adult open classes, you will see everything from stylish leotards with tights over top to baggy sweatshirts, trash bag pants, and socks.
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If you have an old-school teacher or want to get the most out of your class, we would recommend wearing form-fitting clothing so you and your teacher can see your lines. Warmups are typically OK for the barre portion of class, and wrap-skirts are also optional throughout. Steer clear of showing your midriff or wearing anything that will get in the way of your dancing. Ballet flats (canvas or leather) are required for ballet class, though you may see some more advanced dancers changing into pointe shoes before center floor. Socks are usually a no-no. Hair should be slicked back in a ponytail, bun, or French twist. Be sure to avoid any distracting jewelry or accessories.
Jazz: This is another class where the preference is to see your body’s lines. That means form-fitting tops and bottoms like sports bras, leggings, unitards (which are back in!), tank tops, and T-shirts. Again, watch out for clothing that distracts or gets in the way of your movements. Opt for what feels good, shows your body, and helps you dance your best.
How to Become a Better Dancer In terms of shoes, you’ll typically see jazz flats, jazz sneakers, and character heels in class. Hair should usually be pulled back and out of your face unless hairography is key to the style.
Tap: Tap class attire really depends on the style of tap you’re taking. For example, dancers in a musical theater–style tap class might wear tank tops and tap skirts (athletic skorts or skirts with briefs underneath) or stretchy pants and polo shirts. On the other hand, you could get away with wearing a T-shirt and jeans in a rhythm tap class, so long as they’re not too tight or falling off during the combination.
If you’re nervous about either option, go for the in-between: You can never go wrong with jazz pants and a fitted tee. Flat tap shoes are the norm, but you may see some dancers wearing heeled tap shoes, especially in theater tap classes. Hair can be up or down so long as it’s out of your face.
Contemporary: For contemporary dance class, it’s important to wear comfortable and flexible clothing that allows for full movement—think a fitted top or tank and leggings or biker shorts. Oversized layers are usually OK for warming up, but you want to avoid loose clothing that could get in the way during certain movements. As for footwear, most contemporary classes are done barefoot or in socks, but jazz or ballet flats are often acceptable. Hair should be pulled back, and any distracting jewelry or accessories should be avoided.
Street styles: Hip-hop, heels, and street jazz are some classes that allow for more loose-fitting clothing since they’re all about expressive movement and laid-back style. Tops and bottoms should allow flexibility and freedom while looking on-trend. Most dancers take class in sneakers, except for heels class, where you’ll want a pair of pumps, stilettos, or heeled boots that you feel extremely comfortable moving around in. Hair can be worn up or down, and jewelry and accessories are fine as long as they do not detract from your execution of the choreography.
No matter what style of dance you’re taking, remember these two rules of thumb. Rule 1: You want to feel good—that is, be comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. Rule 2: You want to look good—that is, professional and appropriate to the style at hand.