Leotards & Unitards

Q: What is the difference between a leotard and a unitard?

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Q: How do I size a dance leotard in Australia?

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Q: What fabrics are best for dance leotards?

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Q: Are your leotards suitable for ballet examinations?

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Q: Can leotards be machine washed?

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Q: Do you stock leotards for adults and plus sizes?

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Q: What leotard brands do you stock in Australia?

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Leotards and unitards built for serious dancers. Every style in this collection is chosen for...

Leotards and unitards built for serious dancers. Every style in this collection is chosen for fit, movement, and lasting quality through long hours of training and performance.

Styles for Every Level and Discipline

From beginner ballet students to advanced performers, there is a leotard here to suit. The range includes classic cuts for classical training and more detailed designs for eisteddfods and concerts.

Velvet panel leotards for a rich, polished studio look
Mesh and floral prints for lyrical and contemporary styles
Pleated and gathered bodice details for stage-ready elegance
Deep V necklines and gathered fronts for older students and performers
Unitards available for full-coverage preference or colder studios

Getting the Fit Right

Leotard sizing in Australia generally runs true to age for younger dancers. Older students and adults should measure chest, waist, and hips before ordering. A leotard should sit flat against the torso with no gaping at the leg or back.

Check the size guide on each product page before purchasing
For growing dancers, sizing up one is usually the better call
Velvet and structured fabrics have less stretch than jersey, so fit closely to the chart
Mesh panels are generally non-stretch, so bodice fit is critical

What to Look for in a Dance Leotard

A good leotard moves with the dancer without shifting or bunching. Look for flat seams, quality lining at the gusset, and fabric that recovers its shape after washing.

Lined gusset for comfort and coverage during class
Colour-fast fabric that holds up to regular washing
Secure straps that stay in place through jumps and turns
Fabric weight suited to your discipline, lighter for contemporary, structured for ballet

Caring for Your Leotard

Rinse in cold water after every wear. Machine wash on a gentle cycle in a mesh laundry bag. Avoid the dryer. Lay flat to dry to keep the shape and elasticity intact for longer.

Fast Australian shipping on all orders.

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Leotards & Unitards — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a leotard and a unitard?

A leotard covers the torso and snaps or sits at the crotch, leaving the legs exposed. A unitard extends to cover the legs as well, often to the ankle. Unitards are popular for contemporary and lyrical dance, while leotards are standard for ballet and jazz classes.

How do I size a dance leotard in Australia?

Leotard sizing varies by brand. Measure your chest, waist, and hip circumference and compare to the brand's individual size chart. For children, age-based sizing is approximate — always cross-check with body measurements. Leotards should fit snugly without restricting movement or pulling at the crotch.

What fabrics are best for dance leotards?

High-quality leotards are made from nylon-spandex or polyester-spandex blends that offer stretch, shape retention, and moisture management. Velvet leotards add a premium aesthetic for performances and competitions. Avoid fabrics with low elastane content as they restrict movement and lose shape quickly.

Are your leotards suitable for ballet examinations?

Many of our leotards meet the colour and style requirements of major Australian dance syllabuses including RAD and CSTD. Check with your teacher for the specific colour and style required for your exam. We stock leotards in classic exam colours such as royal blue, burgundy, and black.

Can leotards be machine washed?

Most leotards can be machine washed on a gentle, cold cycle. Turn them inside out and use a laundry bag to protect the fabric and any decorative details. Avoid tumble drying. Lay flat or hang to dry away from direct sunlight to preserve colour and elasticity.

Do you stock leotards for adults and plus sizes?

Yes. Total Dance Australia stocks leotards in adult sizes across a broad range. Some brands extend into plus sizes. Check the individual product listings for available sizes or contact us if you need assistance finding a specific fit.

What leotard brands do you stock in Australia?

We stock leotards from Bloch, Capezio, Wear Moi, AinslieWear, Elevé, Pink Lemon, Claudia Dean, and more. Each brand has a distinct aesthetic and cut. Premium brands like AinslieWear and Elevé are known for superior fabric quality and design detail.