We all love the extra confidence-boost that a beautiful leotard gives us! Apart from looking and feeling great, choosing the right leotard has a huge impact on your technique and performance.
Read on to learn more about the different types of leotard fabrics used by dancewear manufacturers across the globe!
Photo credits: Merv Kwok, Six Senses Photography
A good leotard is so important!
A good leotard should be form-fitting, and yet stretchy enough to allow for mobility in movement. An ill-fitting leotard with excess fabric can be dangerous, as it has the potential to hinder movement and be a roadblock to the development of proper technique. For these reasons, it is imperative that we choose good-quality fabrics that you feel confident and comfortable in.
1. Cotton
Cotton is a material that many of us would be familiar with, as it is one of the most common fabrics used in leotards for ballet examinations and ballet class uniforms. Cotton leotards can be comfortable and breathable, helping you to stay cool during long practices and performances. Cotton leotards are also generally less expensive and have a clean matte finish, which makes them the first choice for many young dancers.
Although cotton provides an initial tight fit, it is unlikely to remain that way for too long. The elasticity of cotton leotards tend to wear out more rapidly than fabrics such as Lycra or spandex. Moreover, the colours in cotton leotards can fade quickly. The combination of poor elasticity, durability and colour-retention results in the leotard needing to be replaced fairly quickly when it starts to lose its shape and colour over time.
2. Lycra/ Spandex
Lycra and spandex are leotard fabrics that are preferred by many dancewear brands and professional dancers alike. Both fabrics are highly stretchy to allow dancers great mobility and freedom in movement. At the same time, these fabrics are strong and exceedingly durable. Lycra and spandex leotards are more resistant to the effects of sweat, detergent and sunlight, and are able to maintain its tight fit and original form after being stretched.
As these fabrics hold their shape well, leotards made of lycra or spandex are prided in being long-lasting, whilst being buttery soft and comfortable. This is what gives lycra or spandex leotards the best value overall.
At Supertone, most of our leotards are made of our Premium matte nylon-spandex material to provide you with the comfort and confidence to dance your best!
Photo credits: Merv Kwok, Six Senses Photography
3. Other fabrics
Velour is a fabric which is highly similar to velvet, and is another popular and gorgeous fabric choice. It can look stunning on a leotard but can make you feel warm during the hotter summer months.
Lace is a delicate and open fabric that can elevate a leotard to give it a feminine and refined touch. However, lace tends to have limited stretch, so be sure to select a lace leotard that has been well-tailored to stretch and move along with your body!
4. Select the leotard that is best for YOU!
As a dancer, our body is our instrument. Everyone's body is different and at the end of the day, it is important to listen to what YOUR body needs. Select a leotard fabric that you look good and feel amazing in!
Photo credits: Merv Kwok, Six Senses Photography