Purple Ballet Leotard: RAD Grade 6, 7 and 8 Uniform Requirements

By the time a student reaches RAD Grades 6, 7, and 8, they have dedicated years to technical training and are working toward a high standard of classical ballet. The uniform at this level reflects that seriousness: deeper, more formal colors replace the lighter pinks and lilacs of the earlier grades. Purple and burgundy leotards mark the senior tier of RAD graded examinations, and getting the shade and style right matters.

What Color Is the Grade 6, 7, and 8 Leotard?

RAD Grades 6 through 8 typically use a deep purple, burgundy, or wine-toned leotard. The exact shade varies by school — some use a true royal purple, others a burgundy or plum. This level coincides with more advanced examination work and the beginning of a transition toward vocational study.

In some schools, Grade 6 retains a mid-purple and Grades 7–8 shift to deeper burgundy. Always check the school’s uniform policy for each specific grade, as there is more variation at senior level than in the foundational grades.

Style Requirements at Senior Grade Level

At Grades 6–8, leotard styles become more refined. The most common requirements are:

• Camisole or low-back style — allowing full visibility of shoulder blades, arm placement, and back line
• No decorative elements — no lace panels, no sparkle, no added skirts unless the school specifies otherwise
• Secure straps — the leotard must stay in place during barre work, center work, and allegro combinations

By this level, students are expected to present a clean, professional appearance in class at all times.

Tights, Shoes, and Belt at Grade 6–8

The standard pairing for the senior grade uniform is:

• Pink footed or convertible tights — standard ballet pink remains correct unless the school specifies flesh-tone
• Pink or skin-tone canvas or leather ballet shoes — depending on school preference and the teacher’s guidance
• Elastic belt — this may become optional at some schools by Grade 6, but many still require it
• Hair — neat bun, no decorative accessories unless specifically permitted

Transitioning to Vocational Level After Grade 8

After completing Grade 8, students who continue RAD training progress to the Vocational Graded examinations: Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1, and Advanced 2. The uniform at vocational level changes again — typically moving to black or dark navy leotards. For a full breakdown of vocational uniform, see our RAD Vocational Graded Ballet Uniform guide.

Buying a Senior Grade Leotard: Practical Tips

Senior-level students are usually more established in their sizing, but there are still a few things to keep in mind:

• Measure annually — growth spurts don’t stop at 12, and a leotard that fits in September may be too small by January
• Deep colors show fading more obviously after washing — follow care instructions carefully and wash at 30°C inside out
• Inspect stitching and gusset before buying online — senior students train more intensively, so durability matters more