The Ultimate Guide to Getting the Perfect Fit
Finding the right ballet costume starts with accurate measurements. Whether you're renting a costume for a competition, variation, performance, or photo shoot, taking a few minutes to measure correctly can make all the difference in how a costume looks and feels on stage.
At En Pointe Costumes, we want your dancer to feel confident, comfortable, and performance-ready. Here's a simple guide to measuring your dancer for the best costume fit.
Before You Start
For the most accurate measurements:
- Measure while wearing a leotard (not bulky clothing)
- Have your dancer stand naturally with good posture
- Use a soft measuring tape
- Keep the tape snug but not tight
- Write measurements down immediately
Tip: If you need measurements for yourself, it's always best to have someone else help you to get the most accurate fit.
Different Ballet Costumes Require Different Measurements
Not all ballet costumes fit the same way. The type of costume — especially whether it is stretch or non-stretch — determines which measurements matter most.
Understanding this can help ensure the best fit and avoid last-minute alterations or costume issues before a performance.
Stretch Costumes: Flexibility in Fit
Costumes made from stretch fabrics such as Lycra, spandex, stretch velvet, or power mesh are often more forgiving when it comes to sizing.
For stretch ballet costumes, the girth is typically the most important measurement. Stretch fabrics can accommodate slight differences in bust, waist, and hips, but the torso length must still be correct for the costume to sit comfortably and securely on the dancer's body.
If the girth measurement is the same for different sizes, focus on the next largest measurement (bust or hips) and use that as the guide for choosing the size. There typically is a difference between child and adult sizing in catalog costumes, even when the girth measurement is the same. The child sizes are designed for a developing figure and the adult sizes are designed for a more mature figure.
Non-Stretch Costumes: Precision Matters
Non-stretch costumes require much more exact measurements.
If a costume is made with woven fabric or fabric with very little stretch, even small differences in body proportions can significantly affect how it fits.
For these costumes, we often need more detailed measurements to ensure the bodice hits in the correct place and the dancer can move comfortably.
These measurements are typically necessary for a non-stretch costume (this may include a bodice and a tutu): bust, waist, high hip, hip, back length, bust to waist, crotch length, skirt length.
Why Clothing Size Doesn't Work for Ballet Costumes
A dancer's leotard size or everyday clothing size rarely tells the full story.
Two dancers may wear the same size leotard but have completely different torso lengths or body proportions, which can dramatically affect costume fit.
That's why measurements are always more reliable than size labels.
When in Doubt, Ask
At En Pointe Costumes, we may ask for additional measurements depending on the specific costume style. This helps us find the best possible fit for your dancer and reduce the need for alterations.
The more accurate the measurements, the smoother the costume experience — so your dancer can focus on performing with confidence.
Key Ballet Measurements
1. Girth (Torso Length)
Start at the highest point of the shoulder, bring the measuring tape down the front of the body, through the legs, and back up to the same shoulder.
2. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of the chest while keeping the tape level across the back.
3. Waist
Measure around the dancer's natural waist — the narrowest part of the torso, usually just above the belly button.
Avoid pulling the tape too tight.
4. High Hip
Find the hip bone and measure around the body on that level.
5. Hip
Measure around the fullest part of the hips and seat (butt),
6. Crotch Length (Rise)
Start at the front center of your natural waist, down through your legs, and up the back to the center back of your natural waist.
7. Back Length
Measured from the nape of the neck (the prominent bone at the base of the neck) down to the natural waist.
8. Bust to Waist
This measures the vertical distance from the fullest part of the bust to the natural waistline.
9. Inseam (Sometimes Needed)
Measure from the top of the inner leg to the ankle.
10. Skirt Length
The distance from the waist to the hemline desired (for romantic tutus and dresses) or the number of inches you want the tutu to stick out from the body for a pancake tutu.
Double-Check Your Measurements
Because ballet costumes are designed to fit closely and look polished on stage, even a small measuring mistake can affect fit.
We recommend measuring twice to ensure accuracy.
If your dancer is between sizes or experiencing a growth spurt, let us know — we can often help guide you toward the best option.
Remember: costume sizes can vary significantly between brands and styles. A leotard size or street clothing size does not always translate to ballet costume sizing.
Need Help Choosing a Costume?
At En Pointe Costumes, we carry a variety of ballet costumes in different styles (peasant-style romantic tutus, romantic tutus, pancake tutus, platter tutus, dresses), suitable for soloist roles, competitions such as YAGP, classical variations, peasant variations, and more.
If you're unsure about sizing, send us your dancer's measurements and we'll help recommend the best fit whenever possible.
Browse our rental collection and find the perfect costume for your next performance.