Sunday, January 18, 2015

Dancewear to cover your bottom

For dancers curvier on the bottom, tight fitting dancewear (especially leotards and short shorts) can be intimidating.  In this guide, I will explain different dancewear options to help cover the bottom and make the dancer feel more covered and confident.

Note: If your studio has a strict dress code, you may not be able to use any of these tips.  However, most class uniform leotards are among the more modest styles, so you should at least be covered even if you do not feel flattered.

1. If you have to wear a leotard and tights, see if you can wear dance shorts or a skirt over top.  Another layer of fabric, even if it is thin (like a chiffon skirt), can cover you and make you feel a little better.

If you can't wear anything over your leo and tights, try to choose a leotard with a lower cut legline.  Some brands to consider are Capezio (basics line), Gaynor Minden, and Eurotard.  If your studio allows, you may also try a short unitard like this one from Bloch.


2.  If you are doing a style like jazz or tap, try wearing slightly looser shorts that are still short enough to show your legs, like the standard Soffe shorts (shown below).  Try wearing footless, capri, or short tights underneath for more modesty.  You can also try wearing shorts over dance leggings.  


You may also consider wearing a slightly longer, looser top that skims your hips.  I love my Natalie warm up sweater because it is just that long.  Lots of graphic dance t-shirts are cut in a slightly belled shape to accommodate dancers who use the shirts for coverage.

3.  In general, dark colors make the body look smaller.  If you want a more streamlined look, dress all in dark colors.  Sometimes loose garments can make large areas look larger, and sometimes they can help obscure areas you want to cover up.  Always try on dancewear like shorts to make sure you like the look.

4.  Don't despair.  Most advanced dancers have very developed quadricep and gluteus (thigh and butt) muscles.  More muscle means more strength and power, so push down your embarrassment and use your muscles for higher jumps, longer leaps, and better balance.

 If you have a favorite look that smooths a curvy bottom, leave a comment!


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