How to Choose the Right Dancewear for Your Child
If your child is starting dance class or already seems to live in the studio, you’ve probably realised that choosing the right dancewear isn’t quite as straightforward as it sounds.
At first, it feels like it should be simple. Something comfortable, something that fits… done.
But then you start looking properly, and suddenly there are loads of options. Dance leotards, crop tops, dance shorts, different fabrics, the list goes on. And it’s not always clear what actually makes a difference.
Some of it is just preference, such as the colour. But some of it really does matter.
Because the right dancewear isn’t just about how it looks, it affects how your child moves, how comfortable they feel during class, and even how confident they are when they’re trying something new (which is most of the time).
What Should You Actually Look For With Your Child’s Dancewear?
Freedom to Move (This is the Big One)
Most dancewear looks stretchy enough. That doesn’t always mean it is.
You’ll sometimes find something that feels fine when your child is just standing there, but the moment they stretch in a warm up or start their dance class, it starts pulling in odd places or shifting around.
That’s usually down to the fabric.
Anything with a decent amount of stretch – elastane blends tend to be the go-to – works better simply because it moves with them instead of against them.
And you don’t need to overthink it. A quick test at home tells you everything. If they can stretch, squat, twist a bit without adjusting anything, you’re probably fine.
Comfort (More Important Than You Think)
This is the part that can get overlooked.
Dance classes aren’t just constant movement. There’s a lot of standing, listening, repeating dance routines over and over, and it all adds up.
So, small issues; itchy seams, waistbands that roll, straps that dig in, become much more noticeable than you’d think over time. Some kids can ignore it. Others won’t stop mentioning it. Either way, it’s a distraction, and you want your child to have the very best dancewear.
That’s why softer fabrics and a good fit matter more than style, especially when they’re just starting out. Once something feels good, they’ll naturally keep reaching for it anyway.
Studios Get Warm (Quickly)
This is one of those things you don’t really think about until you see it. Dance studios heat up fast, especially once everyone gets moving.
That’s where breathable, lightweight pieces make a difference. Nothing complicated, just fabrics that don’t trap heat too much.
Fitted tops or crop tops tend to work well here, mostly because they allow a bit of airflow while still feeling secure.
Layering helps too.
A lot of dancers will turn up in casual dancewear such as joggers or a dance hoodie, then take them off once the class gets going. It’s a simple habit, but it works. Some dancers like to wear jackets or long-sleeve crop tops too, and you can find those in our training range.
Durability (Because Dancewear Gets Washed… Often)
Dancewear goes through more than you expect.
Regular classes, rehearsals, being thrown in the wash multiple times a week, it adds up pretty quickly.
Some dance clothes start to show wear and tear after a few washes, or they start losing shape, fade or lose their fit.
Better-quality pieces tend to hold up properly. At Squad Dancewear, all our gear is made from top-notch materials, sewn by the best in the business. We take immense pride in what we do, and we want you and your kids to love our dancewear just as much as we do.
So, What Actually Counts As High-Quality Dancewear?
It’s not just durability, although that’s part of it. Usually, it’s the small design details that make the difference.
Things like adjustable straps, cross-back designs, or seams that sit in the right place – on the surface it may not seem that those small details make a huge difference, but you notice it when your child is moving.
Some dancewear pieces just fit better. They stay in place, feel more secure, and don’t need adjusting every five minutes. But, quality fabric matters too.
You want something that stays soft, keeps its stretch, and doesn’t go baggy after a few washes. That’s often the giveaway.
When all of that comes together, the clothing sort of fades into the background, which is exactly what you want, allowing your child to enjoy their dance class.
Putting Together a Simple Dancewear Wardrobe
Keeping things simple usually works better. And we totally get it, your children want to rock the latest styles, and as parents, you do your best to keep up, but ultimately, you want great quality at prices that won’t make you wince.
We understand that, and in truth, most dancers are happy with a few reliable pieces:
- Dance leggings or dance shorts
- One or two well-fitting tops, such as a gymnastics leotard or dance crop top
- Casual dancewear like joggers or a dance hoodie for before and after class
- If you’re shopping for dance accessories, we stock gym bags, barrel bags and tote bags to complete your child’s dancewear
Depending on the style, you might want add a dance skirt or a unitard, but that’s not always essential. The main thing is that everything works together. We also sell boys dancewear, giving you the option of mixing dance leggings or dance shorts with centre panel leotards.
If pieces can be mixed and matched easily, getting ready becomes a lot less of a hassle (for you and your child).
Does The Dance Style Change The Dance Clothes You Need?
Yes, however, some dance styles are stricter than others so it isn’t necessarily a one-size-fits-all approach.
Ballet, for example, usually has a clear dress code. Fitted clothing so teachers can properly see posture and technique. Other styles, like street dance or hip-hop, are more relaxed. Looser clothing, joggers, layers – it’s all more acceptable there.
Then you’ve got dance styles within contemporary or jazz, which sit somewhere in the middle.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always easier to check with the dance school first and take any potential guesswork out of the equation.
Why Choose Squad Dancewear for Dance Clothing?
For a lot of dancers, especially in structured classes, what they wear becomes part of their routine. It’s not just about the clothes, it’s about feeling ready for class and part of a dance troupe.
At Squad, we are motivated around that idea. Real dancers, real training environments and clothing that actually works in both.
We’re all about giving you something fresh and exciting; dancewear that stands out and can’t be found anywhere else in the UK. Our collection is designed with a modern twist, the kind of dancewear that kids actually want to be seen in, whether they’re at the studio or in dance competitions, that’s the Squad Story!
There’s also flexibility in what’s available within our Uniform Service, whether that’s standard pieces or more customised options for dance troupes and competitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my child wear to their first class?
Nothing complicated. Comfortable, flexible clothing is the priority. Dance leggings or dance shorts with a fitted crop top usually works. If the school has specific requirements, they’ll let you know beforehand.
How many dancewear outfits does my child need?
For one or two classes a week, a couple of outfits is usually enough. If they’re going more often, it’s worth having a few extras just so you’re not constantly washing the same things.
Should dancewear be tight or loose?
Generally, closer-fitting is better, but not in a way that it becomes restrictive. Teachers need to see movement clearly, but your child still needs to feel comfortable in their dancewear.
Some styles allow looser clothing, but freedom of movement is always the main thing.
How can you tell if the dancewear is good quality?
Here are a few simple signs to look out for:
- It stretches easily and returns to shape
- It feels soft, not stiff
- Stitching looks solid
- Nothing needs constant adjusting
If your child can move without thinking about what they’re wearing, that’s usually a good sign.
Final Thoughts
Choosing dancewear doesn’t need to be overcomplicated. If your child can move freely, stay comfortable, and feel confident, you’ve probably got it right.
And if they’re happy wearing it, chances are they’ll enjoy their classes more too, which is really the most exciting part.
From there, your child may want to choose their ideal colour. Our New In range features unitards in cobalt and berry, and dance crop tops in blue frost and yellow.
Contact us today if you have any questions at all on buying the best dancewear for your child, or just want to say hi? We’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at askus@squaddancewear.com.
