Dance shorts are one of the hardest-working pieces in a girl's dancewear kit. They sit under leotards, pair with crop tops, layer beneath skirts, and hold up through long rehearsal days. This buying guide covers what actually matters when choosing dance shorts for girls in Australia, from fabric and fit to sizing and style.
What Makes a Good Dance Short for Girls
Not all shorts are built for movement. Dancewear shorts need to move with the body, stay in place during jumps and turns, and look neat under a leotard or over tights. Before buying, check these key features.
Fabric
Most quality dance shorts use a nylon-spandex or polyester-spandex blend. These fabrics stretch in every direction, wick moisture away from the skin, and hold their shape wash after wash. Look for a fabric weight that feels substantial enough to stay smooth but light enough to move freely. Thin, low-stretch fabrics shift during class and bunch under leotards.
Some styles use a cotton-spandex blend. These are softer and more breathable, which suits younger dancers or those in casual classes. They are less likely to hold their shape long-term, so they suit recreational wear more than performance use.
Waistband and Fit
A wide, flat waistband sits more comfortably under a leotard and does not roll or dig in. Narrow waistbands with elastic can roll during movement, which is frustrating mid-class. Flatlock seams matter too. They lie flat against the skin and reduce chafing during high-movement sessions.
The fit through the leg varies by style. Fitted shorts sit close to the body and are the most versatile under leotards. Looser styles suit hip-hop or acrobatics. Check the inseam length as well. Shorter inseams, around 2 to 4 cm, suit younger girls and keep the silhouette clean. Longer inseams, around 5 to 8 cm, give more coverage for older dancers or those who prefer it.
Sizing Dance Shorts for Girls in Australia
Australian dancewear sizing is not the same as general clothing sizing. Most dancewear brands size by age as a guide, but the better approach is to measure first and compare against the brand's size chart.
- Measure the waist at the narrowest point and the hips at the fullest point.
- If the child is between sizes, size up for comfort during movement.
- Consider how the shorts will be worn. Under a leotard, a snugger fit works well. Over tights, you may want a slightly more relaxed fit.
- Check the fabric content. Higher spandex percentages, above 15 percent, give more stretch and more room to size down if needed.
Growth should factor into buying decisions. Dance shorts that are slightly generous in the waist now will still fit comfortably in six months' time. Waistbands with a drawstring or adjustable elastic extend the life of the garment significantly.
Styles and When to Use Them
The right style depends on the dance discipline and how the shorts will be worn.
Fitted Dance Shorts
The most common choice for ballet, jazz, and contemporary. They sit close to the body, do not shift during movement, and look polished under a leotard or with a crop top. Black is the most practical colour for class. It pairs with almost anything and does not show sweat or marks easily.
Ruched or Skirted Shorts
Popular for younger dancers, recital costumes, and lyrical styles. The gathered or skirted front adds a feminine detail without restricting movement. These are less practical as an everyday class short but work well for performance or photoshoots.
Longer Bike-Style Shorts
A solid choice for acrobatics, gymnastics cross-training, and hip-hop. The longer leg gives more coverage during floor work and high kicks. Many dancers also wear these under school sports uniforms or over tights in cooler weather.
Browse our full range of dance shorts to compare styles, colours, and sizing options in one place.
Colour and Dress Code Considerations
Many dance schools in Australia have a dress code that specifies short colour and style. Before buying, check with the school or teacher. Black is almost universally accepted. Navy and charcoal are common in school-affiliated programs. Bright colours and prints are usually reserved for free dress days or recreational classes.
If there is no dress code, navy or black fitted shorts are the safest starting point. They pair with any leotard colour and do not clash with costumes during performances.
Buying Tips to Help You Choose Confidently
- Buy at least two pairs. Dance is a daily activity during term time and shorts need to be washed regularly.
- Check the care label before washing. Most dancewear should be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid the dryer as heat degrades elastic and spandex fibres over time.
- If buying online, check the returns policy before purchasing. Sizing can vary between brands, and being able to exchange is important.
- Order early before term starts. Stock in popular sizes and colours moves quickly.
For more guidance on building a complete dancewear kit, our article on buying dance shorts in Australia covers shipping, sizing, and what to look for when ordering online.
A Final Word on Value
Well-made dance shorts last longer than cheap alternatives. Fabric that holds its shape, seams that do not fray, and elastic that does not lose its stretch after a dozen washes represent better value over a full dance year. Buy quality once rather than replacing poor-quality shorts halfway through the term.
Total Dance stocks a carefully selected range of girls' dance shorts suited to Australian dance schools, with options across all disciplines, sizes, and budgets.
