You have made the decision to join a dance class. Or maybe you have enrolled your child in dance. You may be a little confused about what to wear on your first day. You may be surprised at what you already have in your closet that will do just fine for your first class.
Getting started
There are some dance staples that every dancer needs. We will go over a few of those basics, but the first thing that you must address is shoes.
We cannot stress this enough. It is very important that you ask your instructor what kind of shoes you are expected to wear. The main reasons are:
- Dance shoes are made for dancing. They have special soles that glide, slide and spin when needed. If you attempt a dance turn and your shoes do not turn with you, an injury is a real possibility.
- Depending on the type of dance class you are taking, you may not be allowed to wear street shoes on the floor because they can damage the floor. Dance floors are costly and you do not want to be responsible for damages.
If the day is approaching and you still do not know what to wear, pick up a pair of ballet slippers. They do not have to be expensive. They are easy to carry, easy to wear, and you can wear them forever.
First-day clothes
If you have yet to be given instructions on clothes, improvise. Workout clothes are a good choice. Leggings and a sports bra are fine. You can wear a tee shirt but do not wear a very large tee while you are on the floor. Your teacher needs to see how you move and you do not want to get tangled up in your oversized shirt.
Take a jacket or a flannel shirt to wear when you are warming up or cooling down.
When you are ready to buy specific clothes for your dance time, check out Just For Kix. Just For Kix has the costumes you need for your next recital. They also have tights, leotards, and anything else you need. They are industry leaders and have been supplying dancers for 35 years.
Staple Items
You will need a dance bag. Every dancer needs a dance bag. Your dance bag should contain a spare pair of tights and a leotard. You need:
- an oversized shirt or jacket and legwarmers.
- water bottle
- brush or comb
- elastic bands
- hair spray
- Deodorant
- Personal hygiene products
- Wet wipes
- Towel
- An extra pair of socks in case yours tear or get wet
- Shorts or dance pants to wear over tights on a cold day
Dancing takes a lot of energy so keep a couple of protein bars and some hard candy in your bag. The protein bars supply long-term energy and the candy will give you an energy boost if you find yourself running out of steam. It is a good idea to keep a lock and key or combination lock in your bag in case you are asked to stow it in a locker. Most dancers do not carry a purse and your wallet and cell phone will be tossed in your dance bag more often than not.
As you progress in your dance classes, there may be specific items that you need. The items on this list are the basic and bare necessities. Keep your eyes open and see what works for the other dancers in the room. That is the best way to discover what will work for you.
Dance is a great experience. It is good exercise and a great way to build self-esteem and creativity. The good thing about getting started is there is not a “uniform” to practice in. You will get team gear or recital costumes later on. So for now, be comfortable and practical, and you will fit right in.
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