Choosing the right dancewear is about far more than aesthetics. The fit, fabric and function of each piece directly affects how a dancer moves, feels and performs. At Total Dance, Australia's home of premium dancewear, every Australian-made piece is designed with the dancer's body in mind, from the littlest beginner in a Saturday morning ballet class to the dedicated senior student training six days a week. If you have been standing in front of your computer wondering where to start, this guide is for you.
Whether you are a dance parent trying to tick items off a long list, or a dancer building a thoughtful wardrobe of quality pieces, understanding what to look for makes all the difference. Below, we walk you through the key buying criteria and compare our most popular Australian-made styles so you can choose with confidence.
What to Look for Before You Buy Dancewear
Before comparing specific styles, it helps to think through a few important criteria. Getting these right means you spend money on pieces that last, rather than pieces that end up at the back of the costume room.
Fabric Quality and Movement
Dancewear fabric needs to move with the body, not against it. Look for fabrics with four-way stretch, which allows full range of motion in all directions. Moisture-wicking properties are important too, particularly for students who train for several hours at a time. Quality lycra and mesh panels allow breathability while maintaining shape wash after wash. Avoid pieces that feel stiff, rough against the skin, or have limited stretch.
Fit for Dance, Not Just for Fashion
A leotard or crop top that fits beautifully while standing still may tell a completely different story in a grand battement or a backbend. Always check that a garment sits flat against the body without gaping at the neckline or pulling across the back. For children, consider whether the style allows room to move without bulk around the waist or hips. Straps should stay in place without digging in.
Dance Style Requirements
Different dance disciplines have different wardrobe needs. Ballet students often follow specific uniform requirements, while jazz, contemporary and lyrical dancers enjoy more flexibility in their choices. Tap dancers need to consider practicality as well as style. Always check with your studio before purchasing, particularly for exam or eisteddfod work.
Durability and Value
Australian-made dancewear is crafted to a higher standard than many imported alternatives. Seams are reinforced, fabrics are tested for repeated wear, and the construction accounts for the demands of daily training. When you invest in quality, you are paying for longevity, not just a label.
Comparing Key Pieces from Our Australian Made Dancewear Range
Our Australian-made dancewear collection spans everything from structured leotards to relaxed crop tops and transitional outerwear. Here is how the key styles compare, and how to decide which suits your dancer best.
Leotards: Classic Structure and Coverage
A well-chosen leotard is the cornerstone of a dancer's wardrobe. It provides a clean, uninterrupted silhouette that allows teachers to assess alignment and technique clearly.
The Amanda Thin Strap Panel Front Leotard (available in both child and adult sizes) is one of our most versatile styles. The thin strap design gives a feminine, elegant look while the panelled front adds visual interest without compromise to coverage. The fabric sits close to the body, making it ideal for ballet and lyrical where clean lines are essential. The adult version accommodates a fuller range of body types thanks to the gentle panel shaping at the front.
For dancers who love a touch of luxury, the Aurora Velvet Leotard is a standout choice. Velvet dancewear has a timeless quality that works beautifully for lyrical and contemporary, and this piece delivers that richness without sacrificing comfort or movement. The velvet fabric has enough stretch to move freely through floorwork and extensions.
The Byanca Mesh Panel Dance Leotard offers a more contemporary aesthetic, with mesh panelling that adds visual texture and ventilation. It is a great choice for jazz and contemporary students who want a leotard that feels modern and performance-ready.
Crop Tops: Flexibility for Contemporary and Jazz
Crop tops have become a staple for jazz, lyrical and contemporary dancers who want versatility in their training wardrobe. Worn with shorts, briefs or a skirt, they offer freedom and adaptability for different class combinations.
The Amity Dance Crop Top is a clean, streamlined style that suits a wide range of body types. Its supportive fit makes it suitable for high-energy jazz classes, while the simple silhouette keeps it studio-appropriate. Pair it with the Essential Wide Band Short or V Band Shorts for a polished, put-together look.
If you are after something with a little more personality, the Aura Tie Crop Top features a tie detail that adds visual interest while allowing the dancer to adjust the fit. The tie front makes it a great option for lyrical and contemporary, where expressive costuming is encouraged. It pairs beautifully with the Adele Mesh Skirt for a feminine, flowing combination that works for both class and performance.
When comparing crop tops, consider the neckline, strap style and whether the hem sits at the natural waist or higher. A higher hem works best with high-waisted shorts or briefs, while a longer crop can be worn with a wider variety of bottoms.
Jackets and Outerwear: Warmth Without Restriction
Every dancer needs a quality warm-up layer for before and after class, especially during cooler months. The right jacket keeps muscles warm between exercises and protects against chills when moving from a heated studio to the outside air.
The Academy Jacket is our go-to recommendation for students across all dance styles. It is designed with dancers' movement patterns in mind, offering a comfortable fit through the shoulders and arms that does not restrict port de bras or stretching. The clean design makes it suitable for wearing over a uniform leotard, and it transitions easily from the studio to the dance school foyer.
When choosing a jacket, look for a style that is easy to pull on and off quickly, has enough length to cover the hips, and is made from a fabric that maintains its shape after repeated washing. A jacket that looks fresh after a full term of use is worth every cent.
Choosing by Dance Style: A Quick Reference
Ballet
Ballet students should prioritise clean lines, appropriate coverage and adherence to studio uniform guidelines. The Amanda Thin Strap Panel Front Leotard in child or adult sizing is an excellent foundation piece. Pair with the Georgette Pull-On Ballet Wrap Skirt or the classic Traditional Georgette Wrap Skirt for a polished ballet look. Add the Mastery Dance Skirt for a slightly more structured silhouette. For RAD students, the RAD Regulation Character Skirt Child & Adult is an essential.
Jazz and Tap
Jazz and tap dancers benefit from styles that allow high kicks, fast footwork and full extension. The Amity Dance Crop Top paired with the Essential Wide Band Short or Hipster Dance Brief gives the freedom needed for technical jazz work. A supportive Dance Bra underneath is recommended for older students training at higher intensities.
Lyrical and Contemporary
These styles reward expressive, flowy pieces that enhance movement quality. The Aura Tie Crop Top paired with the Adele Mesh Skirt creates a beautiful, performance-ready combination. The Aurora Velvet Leotard is equally suited to lyrical, offering a rich texture that reads beautifully under stage lighting.
We are proud to be part of a wider dance community that values quality, connection and the joy of movement. If you would like to learn more about the people behind Total Dance, visit our dance family story to understand the heart behind the brand.
Building a Complete Dancewear Wardrobe
Once you have selected your core pieces, it is worth thinking about the accessories and extras that complete a dancer's kit. A well-stocked dance bag means your dancer is always prepared, regardless of what the day brings.
For hair, the Sprinkle Paint Scrunchie, Sky Leopard Scrunchie, Coral Coast Scrunchie, Florida Floral Scrunchie and Luna Scrunchie are all popular choices that add a touch of personality to any bun or ponytail. The Flat Diamante Headpiece and Flower Diamante Headpiece are lovely options for eisteddfod and performance days.
Pack your dancer's bag with essentials like the Waterproof Bag for wet swimwear or spare shoes, and consider the Legacy Tote Bag or Pretty Tote Bag as a stylish and practical carry-all. The Duffle Dance Bag is a great option for students who carry a lot between school and studio.
For pointe and ballet shoe maintenance, the Satin Ballet Shoe Ribbon and Lambswool are must-haves, while the Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm Black or Ripple Pins 50 Pack 4.5cm Brown are ideal for securing buns that stay put through the most demanding classes.
Our contributors, many of whom are dancers and dance parents themselves, share tips and insights regularly. You can read more about them on our blog contributors page, where you will find a community of people who genuinely understand the dance world.
Ready to start building your wardrobe? Browse our full Australian-made dancewear range and find the pieces that speak to your dancer's style and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which size to order in Australian-made dancewear?
Each product on the Total Dance website includes a size guide. As a general rule, dancewear is designed to fit close to the body, so if your dancer is between sizes, consider the style of the garment. Leotards with a panelled front or mesh inserts may have a little more give, while simpler styles run more true to size. When in doubt, reach out to the Total Dance team for personalised sizing advice.
Can I wear the same leotard for multiple dance styles?
Absolutely. Many of our leotards, including the Amanda Thin Strap Panel Front Leotard and the Byanca Mesh Panel Dance Leotard, work across multiple styles. That said, always check your studio's uniform requirements, particularly for ballet exams or RAD syllabi, where specific styles may be required.
What is the best way to care for Australian-made dancewear?
To extend the life of your dancewear, wash in cold water on a gentle cycle and avoid tumble drying. Lay garments flat to dry in the shade. Avoid fabric softeners, as these can break down the elasticity in lycra over time. Rinse your dancer's leotard or crop top after every wear to remove sweat and body oils, which degrade fabric if left to sit.
What should I pack in my dancer's bag for a competition or eisteddfod?
A well-prepared dance bag includes spare tights, bobby pins such as the 5cm Black and White Bobby Pins, hair accessories like the Alyssa Rose Gold Tiara or Willow Rose Gold Tiara for performance looks, Bunheads Hair Nets Auburn if needed, a spare leotard, and your dancer's shoes and ribbons. The Ballerina Keyring makes a sweet addition as a good luck charm, and the Ballerina Pom Pom Ball is a favourite among younger dancers who love a little sparkle in their bag.
