Starting dance classes can be super exciting, but your first time walking into a dance wear store might feel like a bit of a real minefield. It could be overwhelming to you. You should avoid getting caught up in any confusion and unnecessary purchases by following along with this super practical guide to getting the essential basics for your first few months of dancing.
The Must-Haves for Any Dancer
Whatever dance style that you’re into, every dancer needs the clothes that will let them move freely. So get these essential items first off:
- 2-3 leotards or dance tops: You cannot go wrong with black. But, a lot of studios don’t mind if you go for a different color. Also, tank or short sleeve styles are good all year round.
- 2 pairs of dance shorts or leggings: Black leggings are pretty much a no-brainer. But, you should stay away from cotton and make sure to get the moisture-wicking blends instead. These materials will move with you as you dance with that added benefit of drying quickly.
- The right underwear: You’ll want a good pair of seamless undies and a supportive sports bra. Avoid regular bras with those annoying clasps. They can really get in the way when you’re doing your floor work.
Budget tip: Start with two good outfits, figure out what works for you, what you like best, and then, add to them slowly after you have made thoughtful, careful, and your practical considerations. You should be able to get going with basic stuff for two good outfits from about $80 to $120.
The Right Shoes for Your Style of Dance
The shoes are where most beginners go wrong. Here is what you actually need:
Ballet: Get some canvas ballet slippers for $20-30 to start off with. You can save buying the leather ones for when you’re quite a bit further along. The Canvas material will break in a lot faster. This will save your feet and assist you in getting started with ballet comfortably. These also cost less, perfect for beginners who haven’t established a track record in ballet, yet.
Jazz or Contemporary: Get some black slip-on jazz shoes or you could get some foot undies to start off with. Either of these will do for both styles to start with.
Tap: Get some basic black tap shoes for $40-60. But, for now avoid those fancy ones with heels. Go only for the flat oxford ones for stability when you are getting started with tap dancing.
Hip-Hop: You will want to get a new pair of clean sneakers that are only for the dance studio. Make sure they’re not your favorites from the street. Most studios will not let you wear those as they can damage the floor. Check with your chosen dance studio first for their policy. It can often have something to do with the type of material used in making the bottom or sole of the shoe. So, check with them to see if what you have chosen is approved for use in the studio before spending any money.
Pro tip: When it comes to buying shoes, get to a dance store. A dance store often has knowledgeable staff who would love to give you some advice. This is usually someone who actually knows what they’re talking about. They should help you make sure you get the right fit. Dance shoes are totally different to street shoes.
Costumes and Themed Outfits
Over your entire dance career, you and/or your parents might end up spending quite a lot of money. Do NOT go and buy any costumes, just yet.
If you are doing a recital or actually performing it’s more than likely going to be as a group in some kind of coordinated gear rather than in super elaborate costumes. If you are part of a performance group though, then the details of any costumes will be clearly explained to you at that time. Recital costumes can usually cost approximately $60 to $100 and will be ordered through your studio.
Looking After Your Stuff to Save Cash
- Wash your leotards and tights by hand in cold water. This will help them last longer.
- Let everything air dry. Do not put these in your clothes dryer. It’s a killer for dancewear.
- Only wear one pair of tights at a time. It will make them last longer.
- Store your shoes in a mesh bag. This will allow them to breathe.
- Label everything. Get in the habit of putting your name on everything. It will save you so much time and money in the long run.
Where to Shop
Real stores: Try out Discount Dance Supply, Dancewear Corner, or your local dance shop. I like in person, at first, because it’s worth a visit to make sure that I get the right shoes.
Online options: Online visit Dance wear corner, discount dance, and Amazon. But, only go online after you know your actual dance sizes. I like to know both: 1) my sizes and 2) my preferred brands. I have learned that certain brands fit me in specific ways. Also, certain brands might fit smaller, right on, or bigger than the item tagged size. Although, items that stretch or that are supposed to fit loosely might allow me some leeway.
Budget options: Target’s activewear line is good for leggings and tops. And, Old Navy’s active line is good for hip-hop and contemporary classes at usually a good price.
The Reality Check
Your first dancewear outfit really shouldn’t have to break your bank. Start with one style’s essentials. You can get by with budgeting $150-200 total. And, as you get more into dancing you will naturally build up your wardrobe, over time, as you figure out what your actual needs are.
