Adult ballet class, or open classes, are definitely more laid back than children’s or professional school’s classes. This can absolutely make the class, or the idea of trying a ballet class, more welcoming than if you had to put on a leotard and tights. Some of the most common barriers for trying a class is a high level of self-consciousness and the notion that you need to enter into your first class already looking like a professional dancer. Since there tends to be no uniform in adult or open classes, you don’t have to wear a leotard and tights. Also, only professional dancers already look like professional dancers. Everyone starts somewhere, and ballet is not about being thin. It’s about artistry, dancing, physical literacy, music, technique, strength, and so much more. To help put your mind at ease, let’s break down what you can wear to a ballet class.
The biggest parameters are comfort, confidence and mobility, as well as wearing something that the teacher can see your form in. Bearing these in mind, here are some outfit ideas:
- Leggings and a fitted tank top, t-shirt or long sleeved top.
- Shorts and a fitted tank top, t-shirt or long sleeved top.
- A leotard and black tights cropped at the ankle with a wrap skirt or knitted warm up shorts.
Fitted doesn’t have to mean skin tight. Instead, pick something where you can see your form. Meaning, you can easily see if you are arching your back, or leaning to one side, or bending your knees, etc. Generally, if you can wear it to a yoga class, you can wear it to an adult or open ballet class.
With all that being said, if you want to wear a leotard and pink tights, wear them! There are some ridiculously beautiful ones available; Especially from brands like Yumiko and Elevé. Dancers wear this for good reason: for them and their teacher to see their alignment well, and to move easily.
Whatever you wear to class, you want to feel confident and be able to move without any restrictions. But whether you wear leggings or a leotard, is entirely up to you.
What is your favourite outfit for class?