Short answer: buy in this order: a leotard, tights, ballet shoes, then a skirt or warm-up layer if the school asks for one. Buy shoes last or with care, because the fit matters more than the color. Check the stretch and recovery of the fabric, the seams and the elastic before you pay, and confirm the school’s dress code first.
What should I buy first for ballet?
| Order | Piece | Why this order |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Leotard | The base of every ballet outfit, and the colors are often set by the school |
| 2 | Tights | Pink or skin-tone tights make up the leg line |
| 3 | Ballet shoes | The most important fit, so try the size carefully |
| 4 | Skirt or wrap | Only if the dress code asks for one |
| 5 | Warm-up layer and bag | Useful, but not needed on day one |
Our guide for new students, what to buy for a first ballet class, goes through the same list for children.
How do I check the quality of dancewear?
- Stretch and recovery: pull the fabric gently. It should stretch evenly and return to its shape, with no sagging at the knees or seat.
- Seams: look for flat, even stitching, with no loose threads at the leg openings and straps.
- Elastic: it should hold the edges close to the body without leaving deep marks.
- Fabric feel: cotton blends feel soft and breathe well. Nylon blends feel smoother and dry quickly. Our cotton vs nylon guide compares them.
- Size chart: measure the dancer and use the shop’s chart. See our leotard size chart and tights size guide.
How do I check the fit of ballet shoes?
Ballet shoes should fit like a second skin: snug, with the toes lying flat and no folds across the arch. They should not pinch or leave the heel slipping. For the exact steps, read how ballet shoes should fit and the shoe size chart. Our stretch-canvas ballet shoes are pink, with a pre-attached cross elastic and a split suede sole, in sizes 23 to 41.
Which dancewear is worth paying more for?
Pay more for the pieces that are worn every class and wash often: the leotard and the shoes. A simple skirt or warm-up piece can be a lower-cost choice. For a first class, choose plain, well-fitting basics instead of many extras.
What do the dress code and uniform change?
Many schools set the colors and styles, especially for graded classes. Check before you buy. Our ballet class dress code guide and uniform guide by grade explain what teachers often ask for.
Where can I browse the pieces?
Browse leotards, tights, skirts and accessories in our shop, or use the size finder in the top bar if you are unsure of a size.
Frequently asked questions
What should I buy first for ballet class?
A leotard first, then tights and ballet shoes. Add a skirt or warm-up layer only if the school asks for one.
How do I know if dancewear is good quality?
The fabric should stretch evenly and return to shape, the seams should be flat and the elastic should hold without digging in.
Should I buy ballet shoes online?
Yes, if you measure the foot, use the size chart and choose the larger size when between sizes.
Is expensive dancewear better?
Not always. Price matters less than fit, fabric recovery and the school's dress code.
Do I need a skirt for ballet class?
Only if your school asks for one. Many classes use a leotard and tights.