How to Choose the Perfect Leotard for Your Dance Style

Leotards are a classic staple in every dance wardrobe. They’re the key to creating stylish, neat, and expressive outfits for all dance styles, but they’re far more than just garments.

When you choose the perfect leotard for your style, it acts as a second skin, supporting your dancing, enhancing your movement, and keeping you comfortable and confident throughout every routine.

However, with so many different leotard styles, fabrics, and colours available, it can be tough to decide which one best suits you. That’s why Prima Dancewear is here to help.

Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just beginning to take your first steps into the world of dance, our guide will help you select perfectly functional leotards that look good, too.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Colour, style, and fabric are all important factors to consider when investing in leotards. That said, fit is arguably the most vital consideration. When you choose the right fit, you’ll also be choosing exceptional comfort, support, and freedom of movement.

When you’re shopping for leotards online, knowing your exact measurements is the best way to find a leotard that fits your body perfectly. Measure your waist, bust, and hips and compare them to the size chart before you buy.  Your leotard fits properly when it feels snug but not overly tight or restrictive, and when it lies flat against your body with no bunching or gaps.

If you experience issues like the leotard sagging, bunching, digging into your shoulders, or riding up, consider trying a different style or size.

Spotlight on Leotard Materials

Leotards are available in a wide variety of fabrics and material blends. Each offers different properties and benefits, and some are better suited to specific dance styles than others.

The most common leotard materials available include:

●   Nylon and Spandex blends: Nylon and Spandex are both durable, soft, and flexible materials. Their flexibility and stretch offer ideal freedom of movement, and these materials have a sleek, semi-shiny look ideal for contemporary dance styles.

●   Microfibre: Microfibre leotards are soft to the touch, durable, and effortlessly wick away moisture to keep you cool and sweat-free during your routines. They hold their shape well, making them perfect for intense dance pursuits and demanding performances.

●   Cotton and cotton blends: Cotton is soft, cosy, and breathable, helping to keep you cool and dry while you dance. It’s also great for those with sensitive skin or allergies, and for young dancers just starting to explore new styles of dance.

●   Velvet and mesh: These two materials add a luxurious texture and interest to dance outfits while enhancing flexibility and comfort.

The Best Leotards for Each Dance Style

Ballet

Ballet is an age-old traditional dance form, and as such, usually has strict rules regarding dancewear. Creating a classic, elegant look is key. Leotards with clean lines and simple or neutral colours are the best options. Your studio may also require specific colour schemes for your dancewear.

When it comes to neckline designs, scoop-neck, camisole, and tank leotards are the best choices for ballet. Sleeveless options like the Elevate Strappy Leotard are favoured for their classic appeal, but long sleeves are appropriate for cooler seasons and specific outfit requirements. Choose leotards made from microfibre or cotton blends to maximise your comfort and freedom of movement.

Contemporary Dance

Contemporary dance is fluid, spontaneous, and expressive. The style of your leotard often mirrors the choreography, ranging from simple and subtle to bold and distinctive. Striking designs, vibrant colours, and earthy tones are all popular choices among contemporary dancers.

Comfort, flexibility, and freedom of movement are essential for this style of dance. Look for leotards made from Nylon, Spandex, or Microfibre, which offer moisture-wicking properties and excellent stretch for dynamic routines.

There’s plenty of room for personal style when selecting a contemporary leotard. Most neckline designs and sleeve lengths are suitable, allowing you to find what feels right for your practice and performance. Styles like the Eleve and Avery leotards with their elegant mesh details add a modern edge to your dancewear.

For lyrical dance or stage performances, you can elevate your studio look by adding one of our flowing Juliet Skirts or a complementary dance skirt. These lightweight layers introduce softness and dimension, perfect for turning expressive choreography into a captivating visual story.

Jazz Dance

Jazz dance is renowned for its energetic and captivating nature, so your leotards should match that same spirit. When choosing a leotard for jazz, bold colours, modern cuts, and flexible fabrics are the perfect picks. Microfibre, nylon, and spandex blends offer a sleek, streamlined fit that allows you to move freely without compromising on style or comfort.

While sleeveless, camisole, and tank styles are popular for jazz dance, many dancers prefer long-sleeved styles like the Fosse Velvet Leotard. Longer sleeves offer added drama and warmth, and they create a sleek silhouette that's perfect for practice and performance.

Styles like the Silhouette Long Sleeved Leotard make a statement with dramatic cut-outs across the front and back, elegant ¾ sleeves, and rich tones such as black, navy, and scarlet. You can also choose from a wide range of different neckline styles, from halternecks to high necks, and options like the Icon Panel Leotard with mesh cut-outs for a contemporary look.

Fashion Leotards for Classes, Conventions, and Auditions

When you’re attending classes, conventions, or auditions, your choice of leotard creates a first impression and gives you the opportunity to express your sense of style. You’ll find a fantastic range of fashion leotards that suit all dance styles and perfectly blend function and flair.

While these leotards offer the same support and flexibility needed for your classes, they also bring added personality to your dancewear and help to express your individuality. Fashion leotards like the Mirage Halter feature eye-catching, intricate mesh panels and bold cut-outs, while the Wildflower Leotard boasts a unique design with a plain and print combination.

Our fashion leotards are made from flexible fabrics and are ideal for creating a stylish yet polished appearance that boosts confidence and helps you make a memorable impact.

Choosing the Perfect Leotard for Your Passion

Selecting the best leotard for your needs means balancing practicality with style, comfort, and your studio’s specific dress codes. If you’re a beginner, focus on simple styles, comfort, and durable materials that allow you to move freely. As a more seasoned dancer, select fabrics that support more intense training sessions and meet the specific needs of your chosen style.

Investing in the right leotard can make a world of difference to your training and performance. Explore our range of premium leotards to find your perfect fit and dance every step in style and comfort.