It’s a common question to hear from dance parents and students alike: What purpose does a ballet dress code actually serve?  We’re glad you asked!  Destination Arts’ dress code was established for a few very important reasons:

• Safety

The number one factor in establishing a dress code is for all students’ safety in class.  A basic leotard and tights, along with hair pulled back and the appropriate shoes, ensures that there are no extraneous clothes or jewelry that can become hazardous.  The dress code also helps teachers see that students are using the right muscles and alignment in order to learn the correct movements in class.  

• Modesty

At Destination Arts, we want every student to feel good about trying his or her best in class.  Following a ballet dress code helps us make sure that everyone is appropriately covered … but not so covered that their movement is restricted! We know that kids can sometimes feel self-conscious, and we want to encourage their confidence by helping them feel comfortable with what they wear in the studio. 

• Respect

A dress code is one way students show respect for their peers and their teachers.  It demonstrates an understanding of how a dance class operates, with minimal distractions and the ability to move easily for any combination of steps or choreography. It shows that the students are prepared to learn and are willing to save their fashion statements for outside of class.

• Practicality

Because leotards and tights also often serve as a versatile base layer for costuming, it makes sense that students become accustomed to them during class time.  Just as swimmers wear swimsuits and basketball players wear jerseys, dancers wear leotards and tights to have the freedom of movement required to practice correctly and efficiently.

Everyone benefits with the dress code in place: dancers can learn comfortably and instructors can teach efficiently!  At Destination Arts, we take pride in our dress code and are happy to help you with questions at any time.