How to Buy a Leotard

Picture a dancer, and you probably envision a sleek, sinewy body in the most graceful and acrobatic of poses. This vision of poise is made possible by a single article of clothing, the leotard. It is the simple leotard that keeps the dancer comfortable and shows off his or her motions for the audience. However, for a leotard to fulfill its purpose, it is imperative that you select the proper type.

1. First: Selecting a leotard

   If possible, shop for your leotard at a reputable dance supply shop. While it is probably more convenient to shop online, you lose the opportunity to try your leotard on before making a purchase. The first step in selecting your leotard is to determine the style. Leotards typically come in as many styles as standard tops do, ranging from camisole to tank to long sleeve or even halter styles. There are just as many options for necklines, such as V-neck, sweetheart or turtleneck; select the silhouette that suits you best. Next, comes color. While leotards come in every color of the rainbow, it is best to make sure your studio or company does not have color or style requirements before going wild. Sporting the only hot pink halter leotard among a sea of black camisole leotards gets you dancing all the way back to the dance shop.

2. Second: Trying on a leotard

   Once you select a leotard or two off the rack, try them on. When it comes to leotards, fit is about much more than a flattering cut. Make sure you can move comfortably in all directions, even do a few arabesques if space allows. If anything about the leotard restricts your motion, rides up or results in costume malfunctions, head back to the rack.