Dressed for success….why what you wear to dance class matters

It’s 4:47 p.m. Backpacks are exploding with crumpled homework, someone is still wearing a snack on their face, and you’re asking for the third time where the leotard went—only to hear, “I wore it yesterday.” Shoes are missing (how is that possible when you only need two?), hair ties have vanished into another dimension, and the clock is ticking toward a 5:00 dance class that waits for no one. “Can you move in what you’re wearing?! OK, let’s go!” If getting your dancer out the door after school feels like a small-scale emergency every week, we get it.

So why does it matter if they are in leggings and a t-shirt? They can still do a split, so what’s the big deal?

When we dress like a dancer, we feel like a dancer. When we feel like a dancer, we take class like a dancer. Dancers who come dressed for a playdate, tend to have a playdate in class.

Having your kids in dance class helps improve physical & emotional health as well their social skills & creativity! So to make the most of every class, we want to come prepared for a learning environment.

You wouldn’t go to football without your cleats and helmet, right?!

Being properly dressed for class helps our dancers get in the right mindset. Teachers need to see the body clearly to correct posture & alignment. Wearing loose fitting clothes can hide mistakes (which slows your progress!). Having hair up & off the face prevents distraction as they move. This all helps dancers learn the habit of being prepared, even from a young age.

So before walking out the door, ask yourself “would they wear this to a friends house?” If the answer is yes, you may need a quick change.

Here’s a checklist for a full night of classes:

Ballet:

  • Tights (keeps muscles warm to prevent injury) - convertible is best if taking multiple classes!

  • Leotard/biketard (best) or athletic separates that are tight fitting (good) - helps teachers correct proper alignment

  • Ballet skirt/shorts can be added for dancers comfort

Tap/Jazz:

  • Keep what you have on above (Leo/tights) but can add shorts/leggings

Hip Hop:

  • Keep what you have on (Leo/tights) but can add baggy sweatpants & t-shirts (Miss Lori prefers it)

Acro:

  • Remove baggy/extra clothing and convert your tights for barefoot (footed tights in acro risks slip & fall)

Make the most of every class! At FTLODS, we offer studio exclusive dance wear and shoes through our online store to help dancers put their best foot forward. All items in our store are approved for ANY class you take, ship to the studio for pickup at no extra charge and can be returned/exchanged if needed all at an affordable price. Visit our store here:

See you in class! Dance on!

FTLODS Store