Dress Code
What to where, and where to buy
Where to find everything you need
We’ve partnered with trusted, local shops who understand dance and know how to fit you properly. These are the places we recommend for all your apparel and shoe needs.
Click each tab below to learn more about our partner shops!
Foundations
The basics for everyone
Black athletic shorts, fitted white shirt, socks, and class shoes
Hair pulled back
Nearly every class (Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Acro, Aerial, Modern/Lyrical) requires hair pulled back away from the face.
Leotard and tights
A leotard and tights are the standard for most classes. Leggings or dance shorts may be worn over top.
Appropriate footwear
Every class has a specific shoe requirement. Check your class below to make sure you’re stepping in with the right pair.
Ballet
Hair: Pulled into a neat bun.
Body: Black leotard and pink tights. Wrap skirts are allowed.
Shoes: Pink canvas ballet slippers.
Tap
Hair: Pulled back.
Body: Any color leotard and tights. Leggings or dance shorts may be worn over.
Shoes: Black lace-up oxford tap shoes. (Required for ages 7 and up)
Jazz & Musical Theater
Hair: Pulled back.
Body: Any color leotard and tights. Leggings or dance shorts may be worn over.
Shoes: Tan slip-on jazz shoes.
Hip-Hop
Hair: Pulled back.
Body: Comfortable, loose-fitting street clothes. No jeans.
Shoes: Clean, dry tennis shoes or combat boots.
Acro & Tumbling
Hair: Pulled back.
Body: Any color leotard or sports bra with leggings. No loose clothing or tights.
Shoes: Bare feet only.
Aerial Arts (Silks, Trapeze & Lyra)
Hair: Pulled back.
Girls — leotard with leggings (no zippers or rhinestones) or leotard and tights with fitted dance shorts over top.
Boys — fitted athletic tee or tank top tucked into opaque leggings. Legs must be fully covered at all times, shorts may be worn OVER leggings.
Shoes: Bare feet.
Modern, Lyrical & Cyr Wheel
Hair: High ballet bun.
Body: Any color leotard and tights. Leggings or dance shorts may be worn over.
Shoes: Bare feet for Modern. Tan Foot Undeez may be worn for Lyrical.
Questions
Everything you need to know about what to wear and where to buy it.
Do I need brand new shoes?
No. Your shoes should fit properly and be in good condition, but they do not need to be new. The Dance Shoppe in Dunedin can help you find the right fit at any price point.
Can I wear different colored leotards?
It depends on the class. Ballet requires black, but tap, jazz, modern, and lyrical allow any color. Check your specific class requirements when you register.
What if I cannot find the right size?
Our partners at The Dance Shoppe, New Attitudes, and On Pointe Dancewear specialize in fitting dancers of all sizes. They can order items if needed and ensure everything fits correctly.
Are there budget-friendly options?
Yes. DiscountDance.com offers competitive pricing on all dance apparel. The Dance Shoppe also works with dancers at various budget levels.
What about pointe shoes specifically?
On Pointe Dancewear in St. Pete, and New Attitudes in Largo specialize in professional pointe shoe fittings. Permission is required by the Director, so we will accompany you on your first visit. Proper fitting is essential for safety and technique.
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