Helpful Hints When Considering Fabrics

The many types of fabric can be confusing so we’d like to help clear things up regarding some of the materials that are available in dancewear today.

NYLON
Made From: synthetic molecules derived from oil designed to imitate silk. Weight: light Texture: smooth Points: strong, elastic, lustrous, easy to wash, takes color well, does not readily absorb moisture, long-lasting, inexpensive, doesn’t wrinkle Uses: tights, undergarments, leotards, basics, netting and bags.

LYCRA/SPANDEX
Made From: woven or knitted synthetic elastomeric fibers. Weight: light Texture: smooth, silky Points: can be knit with another fiber such as polyester or nylon for a snug fit. Uses: leotards, costumes, basics, tights.

POLYESTER
Made From: woven or knitted synthesized molecules derived from petroleum Weight: light, medium or heavy Texture: slippery, silky Points: made very thin with channels that help to pull moisture away from the body, machine washable, strong, resilient, doesn’t shrink, dries quickly, doesn’t wrinkle or mildew Uses: basics, tights, leotards and costumes.

COTTON
Made From: natural fibers derived from the cotton plant Weight: light, middle or heavy Texture: flat, soft or rugged Points: generally doesn’t pill, easy to work with, breathable, machine washable, comfortable, sturdy, inexpensive, versatile, easily dyed, the most prevalent fiber in the world Uses: fabric of choice for leotards, T-shirts and bottoms used for dance because of their comfort and soft natural feel.

TACTEL
Made From: knit or woven nylon produced from chemicals obtained from oil Weight: very light Texture: very soft Points: dries quickly, breathable, resilient, holds color, long-lasting, machine washable Uses: Leotards, leggings, basics, undergarments.

MERYL
Made From: knit or woven nylon developed by the company Nylstar Weight: light or heavy Texture: soft Points: luxurious feel and is machine washable, drying three times faster than cotton, hampers the production of bacteria on the skin, has UV reflective properties, crease resistant, retains shape Uses: leotards, leggings, undergarments, basics.

SUPPLEX
Made From: knit or woven nylon and spandex blend by the company Invista Weight: light Texture: soft Points: a cotton-like fabric that is breathable, comfortable, moisture wicking, machine washable, won’t shrink or fade Uses: leotards, leggings, undergarments, basics.

BAMBOO
Made From: bamboo plants, an ideal source for fabric production since they grow rapidly Weight: light to medium Texture: soft Points: antimicrobial, thermal regulating, moisture wicking, odor absorbing, resistant to mold and mildew, hypoallergenic Uses: leotards, tights, bags, T-shirts.



(Part of our "Studio of the Month" series - May 2010)