KIDS DANCEWEAR

For Stelle dancewear, we recommend starting with our size guide, which provides size suggestions based on age. If your child is not average for their age, you can follow the steps below for a more accurate fit.

Use a soft measuring tape and measure:

Chest: Around the fullest part of the chest
Waist: Around the natural waist
Hips: Around the fullest part of the hips
Girth (Torso): From one shoulder, down through the crotch, and back up to the same shoulder
Height: From head to toe while standing straight

✅ Tips for accuracy:

1. Keep the tape snug but not tight
2. The child should stand straight with feet together
3. Wear light clothing or leotard for best results
4. Make sure the tape is not twisted

Compare these measurements with the size chart to choose the best fit. For a more detailed guide on measuring kids’ clothing sizes, please see our article.

As kids, some dancers may wear underwear under their leotard, especially when they are just starting out and getting used to dancewear.

As teens, dancers often become more aware of fit and appearance. At this stage, many choose to skip regular underwear or switch to dance-specific underwear to avoid visible lines or bunching.

As adults, comfort and personal preference play a bigger role. Many dancers wear just a leotard and tights, while some prefer wearing tights over the leotard or choosing lined leotards for added comfort.

Overall, wearing underwear under a leotard is optional—it depends on comfort, confidence, and dress code requirements.

Ballet leotards are designed to emphasize clean lines and an elegant silhouette. They often feature lower backs and simple, refined shapes that highlight posture, alignment, and fluid movement in class. The leg line is typically moderate, allowing the leotard to pair smoothly with tights while maintaining a secure and modest fit during high extensions.

Gymnastics leotards, by contrast, usually feature a higher-cut leg line to allow maximum freedom at the hips. They are also designed to fit more tightly and feel more compressive, helping support the body during high-intensity tumbling, leaps, and apparatus work while preventing the leotard from shifting during movement.

If you prefer a snug fit that allows for maximum control, you might consider sizing down from your child’s regular shoe size. However, if you are buying for a young beginner and want a more comfortable fit, staying with their regular street shoe size is often the better choice.

It’s best to measure your child’s foot and check the brand’s ballet shoe sizing chart, as sizing can vary by brand and style. For a more detailed guide on measuring kids’ ballet shoe size, please see our ballet shoes size guide.

Yes, every beginner should have a properly fitted leotard, dance tights in studio‑required colors, ballet slippers, hair accessories for secure styling, a dance bag for organization, and a water bottle for hydration. Additional items like warm‑up booties depend on studio temperature and class length.