Pre-ballet Division (ages 2-8)

Pre-Ballet Uniform

We Dance Together and Creative Movement classes do NOT require a uniform. Dancers wear clothing that allows for freedom of movement; dancers may wear canvas or leather ballet slippers or leave their feet bare with no socks. BBT requests that dancers do not wear jewelry, specifically necklaces or bracelets that can cause distraction or get tangled, and ornamental items such as tiaras or crowns that can hinder movement and distract; small earrings are okay. BBT also encourages dancers to have a special ‘dance outfit’ that can be changed into to prepare for class. This helps the dancer prepare for their best work by providing a pattern of preparation that leads to success inside the studios.

Pre-Ballet 1, 2, and 3 classes require a uniform. Dancers are expected to wear a complete Uniform 1 or Uniform 2 during every BBT in-studio class. Dancers may elect to wear either uniform; details are below.

Hair: Dancers are expected to wear their hair neatly off the face and neck for all classes. Dancers have many different hair types, lengths, and textures, so buns, braids, twists or any other updos that make a dancer feel confident and proud of their classwork are welcome. Please ensure that there are no loose pieces such as ponytails or long braids on the neck or face. Secure these pieces with pins and hairnets.

No jewelry please. Small earrings are acceptable.

Traveling to & from classes: BBT requires dancers to wear clothing over their uniform when traveling to and from the studios. Please remove any uniform ballet shoes or socks and cover bare feet with regular shoes before exiting the building.

Wearing the uniform and securing hair before class teaches your dancer important studio preparation skills. If your dancer would like assistance, we are always more than happy to help! Please reach out via email to info@berkeleyballet.org to schedule a time to connect with the Artistic Staff about supporting your dancer as they prepare for their journey through BBT’s Pre-Ballet and Youth Divisions.

All uniform components may be purchased online or at local dancewear stores.

Pre-Ballet Uniform 1:

• Leotard: Any LIGHT BLUE leotard will be accepted. Please note that skirts are not allowed in Pre-Ballet classes. Please do not choose a leotard with a skirt attached. BBT recommends the following:

  • Suggestion 1

  • Suggestion 2

  • Suggestion 3

  • Suggestion 4

• Tights: BBT prefers dancers wear tights that match their skin tone as matching shoes. Dancers may also wear pink tights and pink shoes. BBT recommends the following suppliers:

  • Blendz, Premium Fleshtone tights

  • Wear Moi, Light & Dark Pink tights

  • Discount Dance Supply, Numerous brands & sizes

  • Please note that dancers wearing the Uniform 1 Leotard and Tights should not wear underwear underneath. This eliminates distracting lines and bunches and dancers will soon become accustomed to it.

• Shoes: Canvas or leather ballet slippers matching the dancer’s tights.

Pre-Ballet Uniform 2:

• Shirt: Short sleeved Hanes or other brand crew neck t-shirt: White

• Shorts: Athletic shorts: Black

• Socks: Crew socks: White

• Shoes: Canvas or leather ballet slippers: White

Dancers in Uniform #1 (left) and Uniform #2 (right), photo by Natalia Perez