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How to Dress for a Jazz Dance Class

Jazz dance is an exciting, physically demanding form of movement that requires stamina, determination and grace. Dressing properly for the class is important; you need an outfit that is comfortable yet flattering and emphasizes your body's movements. Although there is basic attire that most jazz dance classes use, some teachers deviate from these specific requirements and allow students to wear variations of the typical dress. Before your jazz class begins, ask your teacher about the dress code.

Things You'll Need

  • Supportive undergarments
  • Leggings or tights
  • Leotard
  • Jazz pants
  • Appropriate footwear
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wear supportive undergarments. Jazz class involves excessive movement, and females who have undergone puberty will need a good-fitting bra. This can be a regular bra that fastens in the back, a sports bra or a leotard with built-in support.

    • 2

      Wear leggings or tights specifically made for dancing. Jazz dancers need freedom of movement, which will best result from stretchy, form-fitting legwear made of a material that allows your skin to breathe as your body releases heat.

    • 3

      Wear a leotard. This allows your posture and shape to be clearly seen as you move through the class choreography. Your teacher will need to see the line of your body to ensure you are executing the movements properly.

    • 4

      Wear loose-fitting jazz pants over your leotard and tights. These pants are typically made of black cotton, have wide legs and stop either mid-calf or at the ankle. Teachers have their preferences for this piece: Some require the pants to be worn throughout the entire class; others allow the pants to be worn through the warm-up, then ask that they be taken off for the remainder of the session; other teachers allow students to substitute cotton shorts or sweatpants for jazz pants.

    • 5

      Choose appropriate footwear. This varies, depending on the class requirements; most classes prefer students to wear jazz shoes, which are flat, lace-up shoes with rubber soles that have extremely articulated arch support. Other classes allow students to wear gym shoes, dance slippers or even socks.

    • 6

      Keep your hair off your face. Depending on the length of your hair, you can wear it in a ponytail or bun, pinned back or held with a headband.

    • 7

      Limit your accessories. Because of the intense, pronounced movement, remove any accessories that could potentially hurt yourself or others. This includes long neck jewelry, large earrings, heavy rings, piercings, bracelets, etc.

Jazz Dance

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