Good dancewear is always made of  a base material such as nylon or cotton with an elasticised material added to it such as lycra or spandex. Fine quality dancewear material stretches in all directions, not just two. Two way stretch materials will bind and be very uncomfortable. Reputable manufacturers of dancewear use a quality material that generally stretches about 30% larger than the garment appears and contracts to its original shape.

Dancewear sizing is different than sizing found in street clothing. The adult sizing is  Petite, Small, Medium, Large and X Large. XXLarge and larger is often found in Liturgical dancewear.A dancewear size medium is comparable to a junior size 9. Look for nwt BodyWrappers  Childrens sizes are 3-5,6X-7,8-10, 12-14 and Preteen. Frequently Preteen and adult Petite are very very close in size. All large manufacturer of dancewear use the universal pattern.

Almost all dancewear runs "small" compared to streetwear. However, because the fabric used always has lycra or spandex there is more flexability in sizing. In children the dancewear often "grows" with a child, the fabric will fit when it is not expanded and will expand because of it's elasticity. You will find that a size 8-10 leotard of good quality will fit a child of six to a child of eleven years frequently. The use of good sewing techniques is very important and quality elasticised thread will prolong the life of a garment. Check to see that items are hemmed or serged rather than cut off. Look also to see that interior seams are finished so as not to chafe.

Good dancewear has built in bras, crotch linings, stretchable straps and fine tailoring. Items should be tailored so that the bottom does not have to be tugged down over the buttocks after the wearer moves.

Fine dancewear  found in Dancewear stores may cost a little more than dancewear found in mass merchants, but usually will fit more comfortably, look better and last for a much longer time without losing color, fit  or support.