Bloch dancewear Australia has earned its reputation the hard way, through decades of real studio use, competition seasons, and the honest feedback of teachers, dancers, and dance parents. Founded in Sydney in 1932, Bloch understands Australian conditions, Australian sizing conventions, and what dancers actually put their gear through. This guide covers everything you need to choose the right Bloch products for children and adults.
Why Bloch Stands Apart from Other Dance Brands
Bloch started as a pointe shoe workshop. That foundation in technical footwear shaped everything the brand produces. Fit, function, and durability are built into the DNA of every product, not added as afterthoughts.
A few things that set Bloch apart:
- Consistent sizing across product lines, which matters when you are ordering online
- Fabrics designed for movement, not just appearance
- A product range that covers ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, and streetwear styles
- Genuine availability in Australian sizes, including narrow and wide fits for footwear
For dance parents especially, the consistency is valuable. Once you know your child's Bloch size, reordering is straightforward.
Buying Bloch Dancewear for Kids
Children's dancewear needs to survive more than just class. It gets stuffed into bags, washed twice a week, and worn through growth spurts. Bloch children's ranges are cut with this in mind.
Leotards and Skirts
Bloch children's leotards follow Australian sizing conventions. Sizes are listed by age, but always cross-check the height and chest measurements on the size chart. Children the same age can differ significantly in build.
Key things to check before ordering:
- Gusset coverage. A full gusset is better for younger children in active classes.
- Strap style. Adjustable straps allow more growth room.
- Fabric content. Bloch uses nylon-elastane blends in most leotards, which hold shape through repeated washing.
- Colour fastness. Darker colours like navy and black hold best through frequent washing.
Ballet Shoes for Children
Bloch's children's ballet shoes come in canvas and leather. Canvas moulds quickly to the foot and is easier to keep clean. Leather lasts longer and offers more support for children doing longer classes.
Bloch uses a split-sole and full-sole construction across different models. For beginners, full-sole gives more feedback from the floor. For dancers with some experience, split-sole allows better articulation through the foot.
Measure feet in the afternoon when they are at their largest. Always follow the Bloch fitting guide, as dance shoe sizing runs differently from school shoe sizing.
Buying Bloch Dancewear for Adults
Adult dancers have different priorities. Fit around the bust, waist, and hips matters more. Fabrics need to manage heat and moisture through longer rehearsals. And adults often need gear that transitions between studio and casual wear.
Adult Leotards and Tops
Bloch adult leotards are sized in XS through to XL in most styles, with some extended sizing available. The cut is generally true to size for a standard dance build. If you carry more through the hip or bust, size up and adjust with a belt or layering piece.
Bloch's supplex and microfibre fabrics are worth noting. Supplex is heavier, more structured, and better for cooler studios. Microfibre is lighter, softer against the skin, and more breathable for warm conditions.
Footwear for Adult Dancers
Adult jazz shoes, contemporary shoes, and character heels from Bloch are built for sustained use. The construction holds up through weekly classes and performance runs.
- Jazz shoes: available in lace-up and slip-on styles. Lace-up gives more control. Slip-on is easier for quick changes backstage.
- Contemporary and foot thongs: sized to sit securely without slipping during floor work.
- Character shoes: low and mid-heel options available. Mid-heel suits more experienced dancers comfortable with heel work.
Browse the full Bloch range at Total Dance to compare styles and check current stock.
Care and Longevity Tips for Bloch Products
Good dancewear lasts longer with a few simple habits.
- Wash leotards in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hot water breaks down elastane faster.
- Avoid fabric softener. It coats fibres and reduces stretch recovery.
- Air dry rather than tumble dry. Heat degrades both fabric and stitching.
- Rotate between two leotards if your child dances multiple days a week. This extends the life of both.
- For leather ballet shoes, wipe down after each class and allow to air before storing in a bag.
How to Shop Bloch at Total Dance
The range covers everything from first ballet shoes to performance-ready stage wear. Sizes, fabric details, and care information are listed on each product page.
If you are unsure between two styles or need sizing advice, check the product descriptions carefully. Each Bloch product includes specific fit notes.
Shop the complete selection through our Bloch dancewear collection, or browse by category to narrow down what you need quickly.
