Leotard Style 660
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- Written by: Emma Ballerina
- Category: Fashion
Leotard Fashion in Eltham: A Dancer's Guide to Finding the Perfect Fit
Hey guys! So as a dancer and blogger, it’s no secret that I'm obsessed with leotards. But it wasn’t always this way. Back when I was just starting out, it felt like everyone was wearing the same generic black leotard - it was all a bit boring, wasn't it? Luckily, leotard fashion has really come on leaps and bounds in recent years. Now, you’ve got this massive variety of colours, styles, and fabrics to choose from, whether you're a ballet dancer, gymnast, or just a leotard lover like me. So, what are the latest trends and how do you navigate this amazing new world of leotard fashion? Let's dive in!
Leotard Trends in Eltham: Where To Start Your Search?
Let's talk about Eltham. For those of you who don't know, Eltham is a truly special place with a vibrant artistic community, so it's a pretty hotbed of #leotardfashion. There’s so many great places in Eltham to find your perfect leotard - whether you're after something classic and elegant or something more trendy and funky. You could go to a specialist dance shop - they're going to be able to help you find the best leotard for your body type and your chosen style of dance. A high street shop might be able to offer some great value leotard styles and don't rule out vintage boutiques for unique finds that’ll set you apart.
A Dancer's Perspective On Key Leotard Trends:
There's so many different trends to choose from in the world of leotards, so how do you find the perfect leotard for you? It's important to consider your individual style, your dance style and what you're going to be wearing it for, so I’ve put together a few pointers to get you started:
* Mesh panels are all the rage right now and they're amazing for adding a bit of flair. The mesh adds a touch of intrigue and makes the leotard a lot more fun. But if you’re training, you’re probably not going to want to choose a leotard that’s completely mesh, just a couple of strategically placed panels!
* Long-sleeved leotards have come a long way from the dreaded ‘lycra sweater’. These days, they’re so stylish. You’ve got ones with statement cuts, cutouts and detailing, all available in vibrant colors that look absolutely amazing on stage! If you are considering this style for training, they can really help to keep you warm when the studio is a little bit chilly!
* Bold prints. These are a definite must-have in any dancer’s wardrobe. I mean, who doesn’t want a splash of color on their leotard? Look out for statement floral patterns and bold abstract prints that really stand out from the crowd.
* Cropped leotards are another really popular style, especially in contemporary dance. The exposed torso shows off the beautiful lines of the body and adds a lot of confidence. A well-chosen cropped leotard can help make you feel empowered and on top of the world. It is all about the right cut. If you want to show off more or less skin - try on a few and see how different styles look!
The Tiniest Of Details: Leotard Extras That Add That Extra Wow Factor!
Beyond the style and the fit of a leotard, there are some other subtle details that you might like to look at when you are browsing. Here are some of my favourites that really add the extra touch:
* Straps: You’ve got thin straps, thick straps, halter necks, criss-cross straps… I love straps - I feel like they have a really dramatic effect on your leotard. Think about what suits your dance style best. Are you aiming for elegant or sporty, sophisticated or bold? Choose a strap that reflects that!
* Cutouts: Another fantastic option! A simple keyhole or a statement cut along the back of a leotard can be eye-catching without being over the top. But I don’t recommend a big cutout if you are planning on wearing it in your class as it can affect your movement! If you are dancing in class, look for a stylish, yet functional cut that won't hamper your ability to move freely!
* Detachable skirts: This is a really good idea if you're after versatility. I always find myself trying to pair different tops and leotards for dance and practice so I'm sure most dancers can relate to this. You can just choose a plain leotard and get all fancy with your tutu! There are some gorgeous detachable tutus out there, both classical and contemporary styles. Just be sure to pick one that's not going to cause you any discomfort when you move around. Think about how it’s going to feel against your leotard!
* Fabric: Another critical choice - the right fabric can completely transform the look and feel of a leotard. Consider your dance style. Something more athletic is likely to suit nylon, spandex, or lycra. These offer comfort and are perfect for a great range of motion. But don't discount the delicate feel of cotton - cotton can be surprisingly flattering if chosen wisely! And then, you’ve got velvet and shimmer fabrics, which can be absolutely perfect if you're wanting to perform on stage or add that extra flair.
Leotard Tips & Tricks for Dancing in Eltham:
Ok, so now that we've talked about what to look for in leotards, I’ll throw in a few essential things to bear in mind when choosing the right leotard for dancing in Eltham:
* Support: You need to ensure that the leotard is supporting you properly, but it also needs to allow you freedom of movement, which is so important when you're dancing! It’s worth experimenting with different brands and styles to discover what fits you best.
* Fabric: Think about what type of fabric is best suited for the activities you’ll be using the leotard for. For example, if you are dancing on a chilly stage, look for materials like cotton and even velvet. Or, if you are going to be taking your training classes or performances outside on warmer days, look at some of the super comfortable nylon options that are perfect for hot and sweaty rehearsals!
* Style: It goes without saying that the leotard should suit your own style. You’re looking to feel good and empowered, right? And this goes for your dancing too. A leotard needs to move with your body, it needs to be adaptable for every different style and movement that you’ll be making. It also needs to make you look your best. If it helps you to have the confidence to dance, you can absolutely take the leotard onto the stage. But, in a competitive sport like dancing, it’s important to respect the rules! You don't want to be caught wearing an unsuitable leotard.
#leotardstyle: Top Tips to Make the Most of Leotard Fashion in Eltham
You are probably thinking - “Ok, that’s great! You've given me some fantastic tips - where can I get started with looking for leotard trends and getting myself some great #leotardstyle leotards? Well, there are some amazing shops, boutiques and stores in Eltham which are well worth visiting if you want to get your hands on some awesome leotards! And then you are going to want to take care of them. Here’s a few ways to maintain the condition of your leotard:
* Machine wash leotards in cold water, in a gentle cycle. Don't use bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets, because they can damage the fabric and wear them down. And they may fade some of the more vibrant colors of the fabric that are in trend.
* Don't put your leotards in the dryer, always air dry them. Hanging it in a shady area away from direct sunlight is an absolute winner!
* Store them in a cool, dry place. When it comes to getting the best look from your leotards, good maintenance is vital, just like getting good training. And it will extend the life of the garment too!
So that’s your starter pack for Leotard Fashion in Eltham. Happy shopping guys. #leotardstyle #leotardfashion