How to Dress for a Jazz Dance Class

Last Updated: February 15, 2022 References

Select your jazz dance attire thoughtfully, so that during class you’ll be free to dance without getting frustrated over your clothing. First, consult with the guidelines for your particular dance class. Then choose clothing and shoes that are stretchy and breathable. Find out the care instructions for your outfits before buying them, since you’ll need to clean them regularly.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Selecting Clothing

1
Check for guidelines from your instructors. Visit the website of the school, organization or instructor. Look for dress code instructions – many companies provide such guides online. If not, contact your instructor directly.
- Try asking, “Is there a list of requirements for dance attire?”
- Some classes may require your attire to be modest. For example, they may prohibit certain clothing items, such as cut-off shorts.
2
Choose comfortable clothes for dance class. Select pieces that aren’t too baggy or too tight. Practice full ranges of motion in them to make sure your pieces don’t restrict or distract you.^{[1]
X
Research source} Measure your body accurately and consult with a sizing chart if you’re purchasing clothing online.^{[2]
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- Clothing should not be so tight that it deters you from any sort of movement.
- Clothing should not be so loose that it can tangle or get in your way. For example, avoid wearing an oversized t-shirt.
- For instance, try wearing jogging pants with a fitted shirt or vest.
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3
Find the right materials. Choose fabrics that are stretchable and soft. Avoid material that is too thin and flimsy, or the cheapest fabrics which won’t stand up well to wear and tear. Look for clothing that can go in the washer and dryer.^{[3]
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- Fabric should be somewhat thick but still stretchy. Try Lycra, jersey, cotton or silk.
- Remember that you’ll be washing your dance clothing often.
- For example, try a leotard with jazz pants.^{[4]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Bridgette Borzillo
  Dance Instructor & Artistic Director
  Expert Interview. 10 September 2021.}
4
Wear layers for warming up. Bring a warmup sweater and leg warmers. Layer your clothing pieces to start out, and remove a layer after you’ve warmed up.
- For example, wear one or more fitted tops and a warmup sweater. Wear pants or leg warmers with shorts, if allowed.
- Note that some dance classes will allow you to wear leg warmers or other layered pieces during the warmup portion only.
5
Consider wearing tights. Look for tights at your local dance boutique. Try on different tights, if possible.^{[5]
X
Expert Source

Bridgette Borzillo
Dance Instructor & Artistic Director
Expert Interview. 10 September 2021.} Move around in them and do stretches; see which ones feel the most comfortable for you.
- There are many types of dance tights, such as footed, convertible, stirrup, footless and more.^{[6]
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- Tights, particularly compression tights, may assist in warming up, jumping power, injury prevention and recovery.^{[7]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Choosing Shoes and Accessories

1
Choose jazz dance shoes or sneakers. Opt for a breathable fabric, such as canvas or leather. Look for rubber soles with traction throughout, and small heels. Pick shoes that fill well – it’s better for them to be snug than too loose. Consider how easy the shoes will be for you to clean before purchasing them.^{[8]
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Research source}
- Depending on your dress policy, you might have to wear jazz shoes.^{[9]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Bridgette Borzillo
  Dance Instructor & Artistic Director
  Expert Interview. 10 September 2021.}
- Look for slip-on shoes rather than lace-up. You don’t want to be tripping on your laces!
- Don’t practice dance with bare feet. You’ll be jumping and stamping and need to protect your arches.^{[10]
  X
  Research source} So wear socks or jazz turners.^{[11]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Bridgette Borzillo
  Dance Instructor & Artistic Director
  Expert Interview. 10 September 2021.}
2
Use hair ties. Pull your hair back into a bun or ponytail, if your hair is long, to keep it out of your face. Wear a headband if you have shorter hair in the front. Add pins or clips for stubborn layers or fly-aways.
- Jazz dance classes often require students to have their hair properly pulled back and secured.
3
Wear sweatbands. Choose sweat headbands and/or arm sweatbands. Look for soft, thick, stretchy material. Use your sweatband to quickly wipe away sweat as needed.
- For example, try a cotton/elastine blend.
- Make sure headbands are permitted in your dance class.
- Consider bringing a small towel with you as well.
4
Don’t wear extra accessories. Avoid wearing any jewelry to dance class. Don’t wear everyday accessories that can get in your way during practice. Limit your attire to dancewear.
- For example, don’t wear a watch, fashion spectacles, or a scarf during class.

Community Q&A

Question

Can I jazz dance barefoot?

IncredibleGuinevere

Community Answer

Yes, just make sure your teacher is okay with it. Dancing barefoot is a great way to build up your calluses.
Question

Can I wear sport leggings to dance class?

Community Answer

It really depends on your dance studio's dress code. Sport leggings can be comfy and supportive, yet they usually become hot and sticky during the lesson. Generally it is better to dance in short, tight fitting clothes to allow the dance teacher to see your body positions and allow your body to breathe.
Question

Can I wear sports bras to jazz dance class?

Community Answer

In most cases, yes. Check with your dance studio's dress code for more information.