Short answer: for Christmas and Nutcracker season, keep the base simple: a leotard in red, green, wine, navy or white, tights in the usual color, and a warm layer. Add festive touches such as a hair bow, a tutu or a themed prop. Costumes for the show itself are normally given by the school, so ask before you buy.
What colors look festive but still work for class?
| Color | Good for |
|---|---|
| Wine red or deep red | A rich holiday look that also works all year |
| Forest or sage green | Soft, natural, goes with pink tights |
| Navy | A winter look; hides marks |
| White or pale pink | Snow and Sugar Plum themes |
Our girls’ sleeveless ballet leotard comes in colors including Wine Red, Sage Green, Navy and Light Pink. If you need help choosing a color, see our guide to leotard colors.
What should my child wear to Nutcracker rehearsals?
- The usual class uniform: leotard, tights and ballet shoes.
- A warm layer for the cold hall: a wrap top, cardigan or leg warmers.
- Hair neatly tied back, in a bun if the rehearsal asks for one.
- A labeled bag with water and a small snack.
Who buys the Nutcracker costume?
In most schools, the show costume is arranged or hired by the school, and parents are told what tights, shoes and hair accessories to bring. Ask your teacher for the costume list before you buy a tutu or a holiday costume. Our guide to the Nutcracker characters shows which roles use which looks.
What holiday touches can I add to a class outfit?
- A red or green hair bow, in a style your school allows. See our ballet hair bow.
- A pair of leg warmers over tights.
- A light tulle skirt for photos, not for class, unless the teacher says so.
Our knit leg warmers come in Blush Pink, sizes S and M.
What are good Nutcracker gifts for dancers?
A nutcracker figure for the shelf, a hair bow, leg warmers or a warm cardigan are easy gifts. Our painted nutcracker figure comes in four styles. See also our Christmas gift guide for ballet dancers.
Tips for a smooth show day
- Label every shoe, tights packet and hair accessory.
- Pack a spare pair of tights, in case of a run.
- Arrive early, and keep the costume on its hanger until it is time.
Frequently asked questions
What color leotard is best for Christmas?
Wine red, deep green, navy or white. Choose a color the school allows in class.
What do you wear to Nutcracker rehearsals?
The usual class uniform plus a warm layer. Check the rehearsal notes.
Do parents buy the Nutcracker costume?
Usually the school arranges or hires the costume. Ask for the costume list first.
Can a child wear a tutu to Christmas class?
Only if the teacher allows it. Many classes keep the uniform simple.
What gift suits a young dancer at Christmas?
A hair bow, leg warmers, a cardigan or a nutcracker figure.