| Maybe it is surprising to note how much a performance can be judged purely by the outfit worn by the artist. But audiences, professional or otherwise, place a lot of emphasis on how good clothes look. This makes choosing the correct styles for the performance in question absolutely vital. Many kinds of dance necessitate wearing a leotard. They are available in a huge variety of cuts, sizes, fabrics, colours and brands, each as useful as the next when used in the correct context. Choosing leotards can sometimes be daunting for first time buyers, but comfort, practicality and fit should be prioritised. Certain colours are sometimes part of a dance or gymnastic school/team uniform and once the correct leotard has been chosen, colour can usually be specified.
Some kinds of leotards available include halter neck, boatneck and mock-neck as well as camisole and tank. Some sit differently over the shoulders – they can be one shouldered, off the shoulder as well as each having a different width and distancing of shoulder straps. They can be short or long sleeved. It is usual when putting on a leotard to enter through the neck. As many prefer not to wear underwear beneath leotards, some are available for women that provide integral either under wiring or cups. This can provide female dancers and gymnasts who are more buxom with added confidence. Once on and in place, some (e.g. crew or polo necked) require to be fastened using either a zip or press studs. Others are held in place by the elasticity of the material used alone. Materials frequently used are those which are quite stretchy, velvet and velveteen can be used as well as the more obvious choices of lycra and nylon. Some can have embellishments to make them attract attention by shining or sparkling. Occasionally people choose to have leotards personalised with names or logos. Bags and other accessories can sometimes be purchased to match a chosen leotard.
Tights are often worn to accompany leotards, especially in classes. Interestingly, men traditionally wear their tights over leotards, whereas women where their tights underneath. Tights can enhance the appearance of legs and allow legs and muscles to be seen clearly. Several kinds of tights are available, including footed, footless, seemed, stirrup, full body and convertible. Convertible tights can either be worn over the foot or rolled up around the ankles, full body stockings that cover everything from the neck down and can either have sleeves or straps. If tights are wanted, a performer must choose the tights best suited to their own style and ones that will work well with the leotard being used.
Manufacturers and designers come up with some amazingly beautiful creations that serve to enhance performances. The correct combination of colours and patterns can create a whole other dimension to a dance or display and make it eye catching and more easily memorable. If a remarkable design can be coupled with comfort and practicality, then a winning leotard is born. Although plain and simple leotards are still required and purchased for schools and practices, there is also a large market in more unusual and bespoke pieces.
For further information regarding our range of leotards, please visit our website at http://www.dancedirect.com. |
