In order to create a distraction-free and safe dance class environment at 3-D Dance, we follow a uniform dress code throughout our studio. We’ve kept our dress code simple for parents, and beginning in June 2023, we will provide students with their class uniform as part of our all-inclusive monthly installments.

The class attire requirements are established for the following reasons. 

1. Safety – As a YPAD Certified Dance Studio, safety is our top priority and one of our Five Core Values. There are several ways that our class attired provides an extra layer of physical, emotional, and internet safety for our students.

Physical Safety—Hair should be tied away from the face so dancers can see instructors and each other at all times, and to ensure that a dancer’s movements are not restricted by unsecured hair. Jewelry is minimized for the safety of the dancers and those around them. Dance attire should be fitted to the body so instructors can clearly see the dancer’s form and technique, making technical adjustments when necessary, as proper dance technique protects dancers from injury.

Internet Safety – the internet is not always a safe place for our children, and dance images of kids, especially those lacking clothing/costume coverage, are common images trafficked on the dark web. Although rare, it is possible for children to become the victim of an online crime stemming from these issues. Maintaining a uniform, modest dress code with our students offers a layer of protection for our children and reduces those risks.

Emotional Safety – Without providing uniformed class attire to our students, it won’t be long before anything goes, including bra tops, which can create a hyper fixation on weight during puberty for kids. Unfortunately, eating disorders in teens and young adults are not uncommon, and for some students, focusing on their belly or thighs for example, is a common trigger. While this is not a trigger for all (and we teach our students that all parts of their bodies are beautiful!), we also know it can be a point of comparison and distraction, especially with developing bodies and minds. Therefore, we choose full leotards, a full-length tank, and leggings as our class attire.

2. Identity — When students walk into the studio, they get to leave behind the stress of the day and identify themselves as dancers. An entire field of study is dedicated to the “psychology of the uniform” and how clothing impacts our perception of ourselves and the role we are in.  Just ask any police officer, cheerleader, military member, firefighter, or nurse how they feel when in uniform, and it sheds light on how dancers feel and perform when in uniform as well. Dancers perform their best when dressed to “fit the part.”

3. Community—Dancers who dress alike see themselves as part of something larger. Watch your favorite sports teams – from uniform to shoes, to warm-ups, their clothing is identical. A simple, practical dress code creates a sense of belonging and community among dancers. They don’t preclude individual contributions; all dancers are still invited to be uniquely themselves. A uniform dress code contributes to a setting in which each dancer enjoys seeing everyone succeed together and feels connected to their classmates.

4. Learning—The dress code reduces distractions and facilitates learning. When dressed appropriately dancers do not feel the need to adjust their clothing or compare their outfits to others in class. Focus and discipline are enhanced, and dancers can move in unison more easily as they see everyone else in moving the same way. Likewise, instructors are less visually distracted when dancers are in proper attire, and can more easily identify when a correction needs to be made.