GIRLS LEOTARDS

The best choice is cotton. It is soft, breathable, and helps reduce chafing and irritation, making it comfortable for everyday wear. Cotton also helps keep the skin cool, which can reduce the risk of heat rash, although it tends to absorb moisture rather than wick it away.

At Stelle, many leotards are made with soft cotton fabrics designed to be gentle on the skin while supporting daily dance activities.

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.

To keep your child’s dancewear in good condition, wash items in cold water with a gentle detergent. Turn garments inside out before washing to help protect colors and delicate fabrics, and use a mesh laundry bag for tights and other delicate items to prevent snagging.

Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fabric and reduce elasticity. After washing, air dry whenever possible, since high heat can break down fibers and cause fading or loss of stretch.

For storage, hang leotards to help maintain their shape and fold tights carefully to prevent runs. Proper care will help dancewear last longer and stay comfortable for everyday use.