| One of the most important wardrobe essentials for | | | | to find one that works well with your build and body |
| any dancer is the leotard. Leotards are worn for both | | | | type, therefore, it's important to choose one that |
| practice and performance and can vary in quality, | | | | has the features you need. Read all descriptions |
| style, size and color. Looking for the perfect leotard | | | | thoroughly and consider what features are most |
| can often be a long and drawn out process, but | | | | important to you. Depending on your body type you |
| there are a few ways to narrow down your search. | | | | may be looking for leotards that offer extra support |
| When shopping online or in store consider the | | | | in the chest area, extra lining, or extra length in the |
| following criteria to help you find one that will work | | | | torso area. Well known brands like Capezio offer |
| best to meet your needs. | | | | leotards to fit most body types. |
| - Purpose: As a dancer you will need a leotard for | | | | - Style: Leotards are available in a wide range of |
| several different reasons during your dance career. | | | | styles. Depending on your preference or class |
| When choosing a leotard it's important to find one | | | | requirements you will be able to choose from |
| that will lend its self to your particular style of dance. | | | | camisole, halter, long sleeve, short sleeve, and tank |
| For example, a leotard for classical ballet may differ | | | | style leotards. When choosing a leotard without and |
| from one for modern dance. You may also find that | | | | specific regulations you should choose a style that |
| different leotards will work well for practice while | | | | best compliments your form and body type. You can |
| others may be better fit for performance. If you are | | | | accentuate or hide different parts of your body by |
| searching for a practice leotard, you will want | | | | choosing the right style. Variations among different |
| something that is simple yet durable; however, when | | | | types of leotards include scoop backs and necks, |
| purchasing a leotard for performance you may want | | | | sleeves of varying length, and different strap |
| to focus on style and appearance. | | | | patterns. Ultimately your choice should be based upon |
| - Requirements: Many dance schools or companies will | | | | your requirements, what makes you feel |
| have their own set of requirements governing your | | | | comfortable, and what works best with your body |
| leotard choice. To help narrow down your search and | | | | type. |
| make sure you are well prepared, check with your | | | | - Color: The color of your leotard is another way to |
| instructor to find out which leotards are preferred or | | | | help you sort though the extensive selection available |
| mandatory. Be sure to find out if there are any | | | | to dancers. If you are choosing a leotard for class or |
| specific requirements regarding the color, cut, or style | | | | performance and there are little or no restrictions |
| of your leotard. Many teachers feel it's essential to | | | | you basically have an infinite amount of hue's to |
| have matching leotards to help create unity among | | | | choose from. Start by choosing a color that you feel |
| dancers. If you are unsure about dancewear | | | | complements your figure, skin tone, and hair color |
| requirements and want to practice caution, it's | | | | best. If you prefer to choose something more |
| generally a good idea to choose a classic black | | | | reminiscent of classical ballet then try to stick with |
| leotard paired with white or pink tights. | | | | neutral colors like black or brown. |
| - Features: When purchasing a leotard it is important | | | | |