Ballet Leotards for Teenagers: What to Wear at RAD Grade 4 and Above

Ballet Leotards for Teenagers: What Changes at Higher Grades

As ballet students progress through their teenage years, the leotard requirements at RAD and other ballet schools change significantly. Teens attending RAD Grade 4 and above typically move away from the pink short-sleeve leotard of early grades toward more advanced styles — often a camisole or sleeveless leotard in deeper colours. Here is what to look for when buying ballet leotards for teenagers.

Which Leotard Does a Teenage Ballet Student Need?

The specific leotard depends on the syllabus and grade:

• RAD Grades 4–5: Typically a sleeveless or camisole-style leotard in the approved grade colour (often burgundy or another specified colour). Check with your teacher for the exact requirement.
• RAD Grades 6–8 and Vocational: Usually a black camisole leotard, often worn with an elastic belt. A character skirt is added for character work at these grades.
• Open or non-syllabus classes: Often a plain black or navy leotard in any fitted style. The teacher will specify.

Always confirm with your dance teacher before purchasing — the exact colour and style requirement varies by school and syllabus year.

Features to Look for in a Teen Ballet Leotard

• Fabric: A nylon-elastane blend (at least 15% elastane) provides the stretch and shape retention needed for hours of class use. Cotton-nylon blends are also comfortable for everyday class wear.
• Style: Sleeveless and camisole styles are standard for older students. They allow full freedom of movement and a clean line through port de bras.
• Built-in chest pads: Many teen leotards include removable chest padding for modesty and a polished look without requiring a separate bra.
• Fit: The leotard should be snug without being tight. It should not gap at the chest or pull at the crotch during movement. Measure against the size chart each time — teenagers grow quickly.

Sizing for Teen Ballet Leotards

Teen and adult ballet leotards are typically sized by height (e.g. 140/150/160/170 cm) or by S/M/L. The key measurements are:

• Chest (bust): The fullest part of the chest
• Waist: The narrowest point of the torso
• Height: In bare feet

When between sizes, go up to avoid the leotard pulling during class or fitting too snugly after a growth spurt.

How Many Leotards Does a Teen Student Need?

Having two or three leotards means you always have a clean one available. Rotating them after each class extends the life of each garment — elastane fibres are under stress when washed and dried daily, so alternating lets each leotard recover between sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What colour leotard should a RAD Grade 5 student wear?

RAD Grade 5 students typically wear the approved uniform for their school — often a burgundy or approved-colour sleeveless leotard with pink footed tights and the elastic belt in the specified grade colour. Check with your teacher for your school’s specific requirement.

Can a teenage ballet student wear a leotard with a skirt?

A separate chiffon skirt may be worn at Pre-Primary and Primary grades where the attached skirt is part of the set. At higher teen grades, the skirt is usually replaced by plain tights, or a character skirt for specific character work as the RAD syllabus specifies.

Do teenage ballet students need to wear a bra under their leotard?

Older teenagers may prefer to wear a sports bra or seamless bralette under their leotard for additional support, particularly if the leotard does not include built-in chest pads. Many ballet-specific leotards are designed to be worn without a separate bra, but personal comfort is the guide.