Ever since I told you my story about how I became a ballerina, somehow I became more interested in encouraging my little cousin to become one. She already had an itch for it, and it was like I saw myself in her. Every time she talked to me about ballet, my heart would start to pump like crazy. It was like being seven all over again.
This dream became more realistic the moment when she tried my ballet outfit. It was priceless. This desire to become a ballerina doubled in an instant, so her parents decided to enroll her in ballet class. The moment they told her, she made me do a list of all the things a ballerina needs. Our list consisted of so many useful and some not so useful things (read sparkly dress, glittery ballet shoes, body glitter, real makeup…and so on). But the real list should be the following, especially for a beginner.
Tutu Skirt
Have you seen a ballerina without a tutu? No, right?! Although usually not worn on a daily basis when practising, tutu skirts are an essential piece of every ballerina’s wardrobe. There are several different tutu types, out of which the pancake (classic) and powder puff are the most popular. This goes especially for little girls – my niece is in love with the classic tutu type and has several of them in different colours. Also known as tulle ballerina skirts, these skirts are usually worn with a sports bra (for adults) or leotard. Except for this type, you can also choose a tutu dress for your little one which usually consists of a camisole top and a tulle skirt.
Leotard
It’s leotard girls, and not leopard like my niece used to say. (chuckles) Without a doubt, no ballerina wardrobe would be complete without leotards for girls. This essential garment is a tight piece of clothing, usually made of Lycra or spandex designed to cover one’s torso. Since ballet leotards are the most iconic and foundational ballerina garments, these days manufacturers have managed to make them comfier and softer. Not only do the used spandex, Lycra and nylon are more quality, but they are also using a new form of fabric known as ProForm. Out of all benefits this fabric has, its purpose is simple, to keep ballerinas cool and dry when dancing.
As with everything else, there are lots of ballet leotards styles from which you and your little one can choose. Mesh leotards, halter-neck leotards, sleeveless leotards, full-sleeved leotards and V-neck leotards are just some of the many types you can choose from. In addition, this garment piece can be worn with tights or well-fitted leggings.
Why do Ballet Dancers Wear Leotards?
Because they are nonrestrictive and give them maximum freedom of movement.
Do Male Ballet Dancers Wear Leotards?
Yes. They wear leotards for the same reasons females do – to be able to move whenever they want while being covered all the time.
Where to Buy Leotards for Ballet?
The easiest, most convenient and headache-free way to shop for leotards is online. You can spare yourself the trouble of waiting for your little girl to try thousands of leotards in an actual store by shopping online. Easy as pie, right?! (wink)
Tights
This is another must-have piece of every ballerina’s wardrobe. Tights can come in footed, footless or even convertible style, and they look just like ordinary tights. But if you want to make your little ballerina feel like a real one, opt for white or pink seamed ballet tights. They can be worn with leotards, tutus, ballet dresses and ballet skirts of any kind. Mesh tights are also a popular choice among ballerinas, however, they are not recommended for the little ones, as they can be easily damaged.
Do Men Wear Tights?
This is quite commonly asked question, just like the one for leotards. Men also wear leotards, but in a thicker version. They are available in a range of colours and can be combined with any type of top.
Leg Warmers
Last but not least, quite often when practising, you can see a ballerina wearing leg warmers. As the name implies, the purpose of leg warmers is to keep a certain part of the leg warm. They are usually worn when the weather is colder, which makes them ideal for those little ballerina legs. Keeping her warm and cosy should be paramount. So, make sure you choose the ones that can meet her needs and personal style of course.
