Toddlers in creative movement classes are often free to wear whatever style of leotard they want, provided it is form fitting and allows free movement. Let your daughter help pick her own leotard to ensure that it is something she enjoys wearing and in which she feels comfortable. Leotards for very young children often include attached skirts. If you choose a style with a skirt, make sure it is not long enough to trip her or get caught on ballet barres. In most cases, the simpler the leotard design the better. Find leotards for toddlers at dance retailers, online or for a discount at consignment stores.
Most ballet schools begin implementing dress codes when children enter pre-ballet and beginning dance classes. Schools usually require pink or light blue leotards for children of this age and level. If the instructor does not assign a specific style or brand of leotard for your child, look for a basic style without any designs or attached skirts. Choose a leotard with a "ballet-cut" leg, meaning it will not ride up as your daughter dances. Most teachers prefer leotards with cap sleeves, long sleeves or tank sleeves as opposed to spaghetti straps or halters for young children. Find basic leotards for pre-ballet and beginner classes at dance retailers or online.
Dance schools have different requirements for older children in intermediate and advanced levels of dance training. In pre-professional ballet schools, girls will usually wear a black leotard from about the age of 10 onward. For jazz, tap and modern classes as well as less strict studios, older children may be permitted to wear whatever color leotard they choose. If your daughter's teacher has no preference for style or sleeve-length, purchase tank leotards for spring and summer months and a few long-sleeved varieties to keep your young dancer warm during the winter.
As your daughter becomes a teenager she will likely become more particular about the style of leotard she wears. While most teens are still subject to dance studio dress codes, those that are allowed to wear what they want to dance class often choose leotards with bold colors and flattering designs. Halter, spaghetti strap and leotards with zip fronts are popular with pre-teens and teenage dancers for ballet, jazz and modern classes. While bright colors and subtle patterns are fine for class wear, avoid leotards with large patterns, rhinestones and other extra accents that might be a distraction in dance class. Some websites let teenagers can design their own leotards.