In Vancouver, there are lots of options for premium dance wear, but few that are homegrown Canadian. Ballet is a physically demanding activity, which means that choosing the right ballet leotard is essential. Dancers around the world can trust in the quality and innovation of Canadian-made dance wear products to support them in their pursuit of this impossible art. Below are highly-reviewed and time-tested Canadian dancewear brands that deliver on all fronts: durable, breathable, comfortable, and stylish.
All That Jazz
Sold exclusively through Harlequin The Dance Store, All That Jazz is a well-established brand designed and made in Canada. Their head cutter has 30 years of ballet garment cutting experience under their belt, having trained with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and attended the Banff School of Fine Arts.
All That Jazz proudly state on their website that their products are made to Canadian standards, and all employees enjoy benefits while working in an ethical, safe environment (unlike some of their international competitors, which is nodded to subtextually.) Despite higher manufacturing costs, their dance wear is priced affordably and competitively.
All That Jazz is available in cotton and bamboo fabrics, ensuring peak breathability. Clean and classic, their products are traditional leotard cuts predominately in colours black, navy, and occasionally in pink, purple, and teal. They also offer shorts, leggings, and jazz pants for male and female dancers, chiffon skirts, and children’s ballet wear.
Ainsliewear
If you dance in Vancouver, you’ve heard of Ainsliewear. When I was dancing and a classmate arrived to the studio in a new Ainsliewear leotard, it was a whole event. In addition to their functional build and high-quality construction, Ainsliewear is known for their uniquely stunning patterns and designs. The company was founded by Ainslie Cyopik, a former ballet dancer for the National Ballet of Canada and Ballet BC. She currently sits as a board member for the revered company Kidd Pivot, and the head offices for Ainsliewear are based and operate out of Vancouver.
The company offers a wide range of ballet leotards that are designed to fit a variety of body types. Ainsliewear’s leotards are made from high-quality materials, such as microfiber and spandex, which provide excellent support and comfort. They come in a range of styles and colors, including camisoles, tanks, and long-sleeve designs.
Ainsliewear also offers a range of leotards that are designed specifically for different types of dance, from ballet to contemporary and beyond. Their “Studio” collection, for example, features leotards that are designed for a sleek and classic ballet look, while their “City” collection offers more contemporary designs that are perfect for jazz and modern dance.
Overall, Ainsliewear leotards are a great choice for dancers who want a functional and high-quality leotard that also reflects their personal style. Just scroll through their collections, guarantee you’ll be drooling!
Mondor
Mondor is a Canadian brand that has been producing high-quality dancewear for over 30 years. The company is known for its innovative designs and high-quality fabrics. Mondor’s ballet leotards come in a variety of styles and colors, including camisole, tank, short-sleeve, and long-sleeve designs. They are made from soft, breathable materials that provide excellent support and flexibility. Mondor’s leotards are also designed to be durable and long-lasting, making them an excellent investment for serious dancers.
But it’s not all leotards, Mondor offers a wide range of products including tights, tutus, shorts, and official Royal Academy of Dance wear. As well as accessories such as stylish warm-up clothing, dance bags, and hair pieces.
As a pillar in the dance community, Mondor is committed to supporting dancers and regularly sponsors dance events and competitions. They also offer scholarships to young dancers to help them pursue their passion for dance. Mondor is committed to reducing its environmental impact and has implemented eco-friendly practices in its production processes, including using recycled materials and reducing waste.
Leave A Comment