Dance Dress Code

Class EtiquetteFor Students
Written By Lynn Panting

Early in my teaching career, I encountered a student with a sensory issue who was ready to quit ballet because they couldn't tolerate the feeling of ballet tights. This experience made me question the rigid rules I had grown up with and realize that such strict requirements were unnecessary. While I still believe that dressing the part can positively impact a student's mindset, I also know that students perform best when they feel confident, comfortable, and most like themselves. That's why LPD's dress code offers options to accommodate the diverse needs of our dancers, ensuring everyone can focus on their passion for dance without unnecessary discomfort.

Comfort and Functionality

Your clothing should allow for freedom of movement and comfort during class. Opt for attire that is breathable, stretchy, and form-fitting enough to allow the instructor to see your body's alignment and movements clearly. This typically includes leggings, leotards, fitted tops, and appropriate footwear depending on the dance style (e.g., ballet slippers, jazz shoes, etc.).

Safety

Wearing the right attire can also contribute to your safety during class. Proper footwear provides support and traction, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls.

Professionalism

While dance attire may vary depending on the style and level of the class, presenting yourself in clean, well-maintained clothing shows professionalism and consideration for others in the class. Avoid wearing clothing with offensive graphics or slogans that could be distracting or inappropriate.

Confidence

Dressing the part can also help boost your confidence in the studio. When you feel good about how you look, you're more likely to approach the class with a positive attitude and give it your all.


LPD Dress Code

  • Hair must be secured neatly off the face for all classes. 

  • Hair must be worn in a bun for ballet classes.

  • Proper body-wear is always required. Keep in mind the visibility of the "big joints": shoulders, hips, knees and ankles. 

  • Jewellery is not worn in class.

  • No "street shoes" are permitted in the studio. 

  • Dancers Level 3+ are required to have a black base layer including a black tank leotard, or a black tank top, and black shorts.

*A Note About Undergarments
Students Level 2+ will require a “nude” layer of tights and undergarments for the recital. This layer is for modesty and dancer comfort during costume changes. This may be different for each individual. This layer could include a combination of nude bodysuit, nude tights, nude underwear, nude dance-belt, nude bra, and/or nude body tights.

Wee Dance 

  • bodysuit any style and in any solid colour

  • pink tights 

  • pink ballet slippers with elastics

  • short ballet skirt in any solid colour (optional)

or 

  • t-shirt in any solid colour

  • stretch pants or shorts

  • ballet slippers

Ballet 

  • bodysuit any style and in any solid colour

  • pink tights 

  • pink ballet slippers with elastics

  • short ballet skirt in any solid colour (optional)

or 

  • t-shirt or tank in any solid colour

  • legging or shorts

  • ballet slippers

Modern

  • t-shirt or tank in any solid colour

  • leggings or shorts

  • socks are recommended

  • knees pads (optional)

Jazz, Latin Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop

  • t-shirt or tank in any solid colour

  • leggings or shorts

  • jazz: black ballet or jazz shoes (character shoes TBD)

  • tap: black tap shoes

  • hip hop: black sneakers

  • Latin jazz (Latin heels TBD)


Lynn Panting
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