There is something truly magical about watching a little one step into their very first dance class, eyes wide, tutu swishing, completely in their element. At Total Dance, Australia's home of premium dancewear, we know that choosing the right outfit for your baby dancer is about far more than just looking adorable. It is about comfort, freedom of movement, and building confidence from the very first plié. That is why we love Elevé Dancewear, a brand that combines beautiful design with practical, child-friendly construction, making it a favourite among dance parents across Australia.
This buying guide is designed to help you compare Elevé's most popular leotard styles and coordinating pants, so you can make a confident, informed choice for your little one. Whether you are shopping for a first-time toddler or a more experienced pre-schooler moving through levels, we have got you covered.
Understanding Elevé Leotard Styles: Which Neckline Suits Your Child?
The neckline and overall cut of a leotard can make a significant difference to how comfortable and confident your child feels in class. Elevé offers a range of styles, from classic and understated to softly romantic, so there is genuinely something for every little dancer.
The Classic Boat Neck: Timeless and Practical
The boat neckline is one of the most enduring silhouettes in dancewear, and for good reason. It sits wide and flat across the collarbone, creating an elegant, elongated line without being restrictive. For baby dancers who are still getting used to wearing a fitted garment, this neckline is a wonderful choice because it does not feel tight or bunched around the neck and shoulders.
The Eleve Allison Boat Neck Velvet Leotard - Black is a standout example. Crafted in rich velvet, it offers a luxurious feel against delicate skin while the classic boat neck keeps things clean and fuss-free. The deep, saturated black is versatile enough for a range of dance disciplines, from ballet to contemporary, and it holds its colour beautifully wash after wash.
If your little one's dance school leans toward softer, more whimsical tones, the Allison Velvet Leotard - Classic Boat Neck with Wrap Back Panel - Lavender is a gorgeous alternative. The wrap back panel adds a subtle design detail that makes it feel a little special, while the boat neck ensures it remains comfortable and easy to put on and take off, which any parent of a wriggly toddler will appreciate.
The Sweetheart Neckline: A Touch of Romance
For dancers who love a slightly more decorative look, the sweetheart neckline offers a softly curved front that frames the chest beautifully. It works particularly well on older pre-schoolers and primary-aged dancers who are starting to develop their own sense of personal style.
The Vinzant Peach Blossom Lace Leotard - Sweetheart Neckline is a wonderful example of this style done well. The peach blossom colouring is soft and flattering across a range of skin tones, and the lace detailing adds texture and visual interest without feeling overwhelming. This is a leotard that photographs beautifully at recitals and competitions, while still being practical enough for regular class wear.
Lace Leotards: Delicate Detail with Everyday Wearability
Lace leotards have long been popular in the baby and junior dancewear space because they strike such a pleasing balance between pretty and practical. Elevé's lace options are designed with stretch and comfort in mind, meaning the lace never feels scratchy or restrictive.
The Lilli Wisteria Bella Lace Leotard is a particularly lovely choice for younger dancers. The wisteria colouring, a soft purple-lilac, is universally flattering and feels appropriately dreamy for a ballet class setting. The bella lace overlay adds a layer of detail that makes even the simplest class outfit feel considered and intentional.
When choosing between lace and velvet, consider your child's sensory preferences. Some children find textured fabrics distracting during class, while others love the tactile richness. If your child is sensitive to fabrics, velvet tends to feel smoother and more uniform against the skin, making it a safer first choice.
Choosing the Right Pants to Coordinate with Your Leotard
A leotard alone is a complete dance outfit, but for many classes, particularly contemporary, lyrical, and jazz, coordinating dance pants add coverage, warmth, and style. Choosing pants that complement your leotard both in colour and in cut is key to putting together a polished, cohesive look.
Wide Leg Pants for Contemporary and Lyrical
Wide leg pants have become a staple in contemporary and lyrical dance because they allow the fabric to flow with the dancer's movements, creating a visual extension of lines and shapes. For young dancers exploring these disciplines, wide leg pants also make transitions between floor work and standing movements easier and more comfortable.
The A-Line Mesh Pants - Black Wide Leg Contemporary Dance Pants are an excellent choice for pairing with either of the Allison boat neck leotards. The mesh fabrication is lightweight and breathable, ensuring little ones do not overheat during active sessions, while the wide leg silhouette moves beautifully without restricting the hips or knees. The black colourway coordinates seamlessly with the Eleve Allison Boat Neck Velvet Leotard in Black, creating a sleek, unified look.
When sizing pants for baby dancers, pay close attention to the waistband. An elasticated waistband that sits comfortably without digging in is essential for little ones who may not yet have the language to tell you something feels uncomfortable. Always check the sizing guide and, where possible, size up if your child is between sizes.
Pairing Colours: How to Build a Coordinated Look
Colour coordination does not have to be complicated. Here are a few simple guidelines to help you put together a cohesive outfit for your child's dance class:
- Match tones, not shades. If your leotard is in a cool-toned purple like the Lilli Wisteria Bella Lace Leotard, look for pants in cool neutrals like grey, white, or black rather than warm beige or tan.
- Use black as your anchor. Black pants, such as the A-Line Mesh Pants, work with virtually every leotard colour and are a practical, versatile choice for parents who want one pair of pants that goes with multiple tops.
- Embrace tonal dressing. Pairing the Lavender Allison leotard with soft lilac or pale pink pants creates a beautiful, harmonious look that feels intentional without being matchy-matchy.
- Consider the class environment. Some dance schools have specific uniform requirements, so always check with your teacher before investing in a full outfit.
Fabric, Sizing, and Care: What Parents Need to Know
Fabric Choices and What They Mean for Your Child
Elevé uses high-quality stretch fabrics across their range, prioritising softness, durability, and freedom of movement. Velvet fabrics, as seen in the Allison leotard range, are typically made from a stretch velvet that retains its plush texture even after repeated washing. This makes them a sound investment for regular class wear.
Mesh fabrics, as used in the A-Line Contemporary Dance Pants, are chosen specifically for their breathability and lightweight feel. In a dance class environment where children are active for extended periods, breathable fabrics help regulate body temperature and keep little ones comfortable throughout the session.
Lace overlays, as featured on the Lilli and Vinzant leotards, are generally applied over a soft stretch base layer, so the lace never sits directly against the skin. This is an important construction detail to look for when purchasing any lace dancewear for young children.
Getting the Right Size
Sizing baby and toddler dancewear can feel tricky, especially if your child is between sizes or going through a growth spurt. Here are some practical tips to guide you:
- Always measure your child's chest, waist, and height before purchasing, and compare these measurements against the brand's specific size guide rather than relying on age alone.
- For leotards, a slight snug fit is normal and intentional. The fabric should sit close to the body without pulling, pinching, or restricting movement.
- For pants, a little extra length is generally fine as it can be folded at the waistband or will be grown into quickly. Avoid sizing up significantly in the waist, as this can cause pants to slip during class.
- If your child wears a nappy or pull-up to dance class, factor in the extra volume under the leotard and consider sizing up for comfort and practicality.
Caring for Your Elevé Dancewear
To keep Elevé pieces looking their best for as long as possible, always follow the care label instructions. As a general rule, handwashing or machine washing on a gentle, cold cycle will extend the life of stretch and velvet fabrics. Avoid tumble drying where possible, as heat can affect the elasticity of stretch fabrics over time. Lay garments flat to dry in the shade to preserve colour and shape.
Ready to start building your little one's dance wardrobe? Explore our full range of Elevé styles and find the pieces that suit your child's personality, class requirements, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is Elevé Dancewear suitable for?
Elevé Dancewear caters to a range of ages, with many styles available in sizes suitable for toddlers and young children right through to adults. For baby dancers, typically aged between 2 and 5 years, the leotard and pants styles featured in this guide are a wonderful starting point. Always check the individual size guide for each style to confirm the best fit for your child's current measurements.
Is velvet dancewear practical for regular class use?
Absolutely. Modern stretch velvet is designed to move with the dancer and withstand the demands of regular class wear. The Allison velvet leotards in particular are constructed with both aesthetics and practicality in mind. The fabric holds its shape, resists pilling, and maintains its rich colour with proper care. Velvet is also a good choice for children who are sensitive to rougher textures, as it tends to feel very soft and smooth against the skin.
Can I mix and match Elevé leotards with pants from other brands?
Yes, you can absolutely mix and match, especially when using neutral basics like black wide-leg pants. However, coordinating within the Elevé range has the advantage of consistent sizing, complementary colour palettes, and fabric weights that are designed to work together. If your dance school has a specific uniform, always check with your teacher before mixing brands to ensure the look meets any requirements.
How do I know if a lace leotard will be comfortable for my child?
The key is to look at how the lace is applied. On quality dancewear like the Lilli Wisteria Bella Lace Leotard and the Vinzant Peach Blossom Lace Leotard, the lace overlay sits on top of a soft stretch base layer rather than directly against the skin. This means the lace provides visual interest and texture without causing irritation. If your child has particularly sensitive skin, it is a good idea to do a brief wear test at home before their first class to make sure they are comfortable and happy.
