Dancewear vs. Dance Costumes for Kids

There’s nothing better than the feeling when your kid expresses a love for dance. Naturally, as a parent, you want to make it happen for them. So, when your child starts classes, one of the first things you have to figure out is their dance outfits. 

In theory, this sounds very simple, but you can get confused between dancewear and dance costumes, especially if you are new to this.

For that reason, we are here to help you understand the difference so you know what your kid needs. Let’s prepare them for the dance performance of their life!

What Is Dancewear?

Dancewear is the clothing kids wear during regular dance classes and rehearsals. This type of clothing is functional, safe, and provides ease of movement. Most importantly, it’s not created for stage sparkle. 

The main goals of dancewear solutions are to allow freedom of movement and be flexible, to help instructors assess the alignment and posture of your child, and, of course, provide comfort when the classes are physically demanding.

Basically, dancewear supports your child's training. It's what helps them do the work. To make things a little easier for you, here are a few examples of different styles and different dancewear:

• Ballet costumes - Leotard, tights, ballet slippers, and optional skirt or warm-ups

• Hip-Hop - Loose-fitting t-shirts, sweatpants or joggers, sneakers

• Tap - Comfortable top, leggings or tap pants, tap shoes

• Contemporary - Leotard or snug top, leggings or shorts, barefoot or foot paws

But how do you look for the key features? 

Well, great dancewear has a few of them you need to keep in mind. First things first, they need to be stretchy and made from breathable fabrics like spandex or cotton blends. Then, they need to have minimal embellishments to avoid injury or distraction. 

Also, look for a secure fit that won’t ride up, slip down, or unravel. Finally, choose durability for repeated washing and sweaty rehearsals. These qualities are why high-quality dancewear solutions are worth investing in.

Before we move on to the dance costumes, here are a few tips for all you parents you should keep in mind for dancewear:

• Label everything 

• Follow studio dress codes

• Choose comfort over fashion

• Stock up on extras (especially tights and hairpins)

What Are Dance Costumes?

Dance costumes are what dancers wear for performances and competitions. You’re probably a little familiar with them already - they dazzle, fit the choreography themes, and visually enhance the routine for an audience. Dance costumes focus on presentation and accentuate the story or mood of a performance to help dancers embody a character or emotion. Additionally, they create visual cohesion within a group. In other words, they’re about show, not practice.

Dance outfits vary depending on the routine. Here, you can expect ballet costumes like tutus, romantic skirts, or classical bodices. Also, hip-hop outfits with streetwear vibes - hoodies, hats, and layered pieces. Finally, lyrical or contemporary costumes that are soft and flowy.

Although the dance costumes are more decorative than dancewear, they still need some functional elements. When you look for the key features, choose a stretchy fabric for freedom of movement. Remember to choose a secure fit with elastic waistbands, adjustable straps, or hidden snaps. Opt for minimal (but durable) embellishments (sequins that won’t fall off mid-turn) and breathability, especially under stage lights.

Yes, they sparkle, but they still have a job to do. Before we go into the visuals for the key differences, here are a few tips for you:

• Get the costume info early

• Double-check alterations

• Advise your child to practice in it

• Pack extras - think safety pins and clear straps - trust us

Key Differences Between Dancewear & Dance Costumes

Dancewear is practical, and it is excellent for rehearsals. It’s breathable, stretchy, and extremely comfortable. Dancewear solutions are functional, and your child needs to wear it whenever they go to rehearsals and learn techniques. Best part about it? This type of clothing is machine washable.

On the other hand, dance costumes are strictly made for performances on stage. They are stretchy and usually come with sequins and all kinds of embellishments. Yes, that means they’re decorative. They fit the theme, and they catch everyone’s eye. Oh, and you cannot put them in a washing machine – you have to clean them by hand.

Common Parent Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

• Don’t send your child to class in a costume. Costumes can be uncomfortable and inappropriate for class routines. Always check if it’s a special dress-up day.

• No need to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials. Gradually build up their dance outfits as you go.

• Don’t ignore the studio’s guidelines. Studios often have strict dress codes for safety. If you don’t follow them, your child may be put aside during practice, and you don’t want that to happen.

• Never wait until the last minute. Whatever you need to do, do it now. Order everything you need early because shipping delays happen often.

✔️Final Tips

You want to make your child feel as confident as possible. However, they also need to feel comfortable. That’s why you’re here – to choose the perfect dance outfits for them. As a parent, you play a crucial role in their dance journey. So, before we conclude, here is your final checklist:

• Stick to dancewear for class, and save the sparkle for showtime.

• Label everything, double-check size charts, and prep early.

• Don’t be afraid to ask your dance instructor anything! It’s always better to double-check than to guess wrong.

• And most importantly, enjoy the ride. 

Because your heart will pound like crazy when you see your child go on stage in their perfect little dance or ballet costume. They will shine on stage, and you will shine off stage.

If you’re currently looking for the right dancewear for your child, Stelle is a great place to start. We offer beginner-friendly pieces designed for comfort, movement, and growing dancers. With our outfits, they can focus on the music, movement, and magic that happens in every class and practice.