Dance Fabrics

What are dance fabrics?

Dance fabrics are fabrics chosen for clothing that needs to move with the body. Think of dance costumes, ballet outfits, leotards, skirts, tops, showwear and stage costumes. For dancewear, the fabric is not only about appearance. Comfort, stretch, recovery and the way the fabric reacts under stage lighting are just as important. A good dance fabric moves smoothly, keeps its shape and feels comfortable during rehearsals, performances and competitions.

At Rijs Textiles, you can order dance fabrics by the metre for both small and large projects. This makes it easy to buy fabric for one costume, but also to order larger quantities for dance schools, theatre groups, clubs and ateliers. Wholesale prices apply from 6 metres. Want to feel how a fabric stretches, drapes or catches the light first? You can order fabric samples from €0.50 per colour.

Types of dance fabrics and useful links

Different types of fabrics are used for dance, ballet, gymnastics and show clothing. The best choice depends on the dance style, the design and the visual effect you want to create on stage. In our collection, you will find lycra, stretch mesh, tulle and hologram fabrics.

Lycra fabrics: matte or shiny

Matte lycra fabric is popular for dance suits, modern dance, jazz, training wear and costumes where you want a clean and professional look. The matte finish reflects less light and creates smooth, elegant lines during movement.

Shiny lycra fabric is ideal when a costume needs to stand out more. Under stage lighting, the shine catches movement and adds extra depth. That is why shiny lycra is often used for show dance, rhythmic gymnastics, cheerleading, leotards and eye-catching performance outfits.

Lycra usually offers excellent stretch and recovery. This means the fabric moves with the body and returns to its original shape afterwards. That is important for jumps, turns, bends and intensive choreography.

Stretch mesh and tulle

Stretch mesh fabric is a lightweight, transparent net fabric often used for sleeves, back panels, inserts and details in dance costumes. Because mesh is breathable and flexible, it remains comfortable during movement. It gives a costume an airy, elegant look without feeling heavy.

Tulle fabric is often used for ballet, theatre, skirts, veils and decorative layers. Tulle adds volume and structure, making it perfect for soft, floating silhouettes. For larger designs or fuller skirts, you can also choose bridal tulle 300 cm wide, so you can work with fewer seams.

Hologram fabrics for stage effects

For costumes that really need to shine under the lights, hologram fabrics are a striking choice. These fabrics have a prismatic effect, which makes the colours shift when light hits the surface. Hologram fabric is often used for show clothing, festival outfits, dance acts, cosplay and futuristic costumes.

Because hologram fabrics can sometimes be less stretchy than standard lycra, they are often best used as an accent fabric or combined with an elastic base fabric. Think of panels, strips, appliqués or details on a lycra costume.

What to consider when buying dance fabrics

Stretch is one of the most important qualities when buying dance fabrics. For dance, ballet, gymnastics and performance clothing, the fabric needs to move comfortably with the body. Especially for fitted garments, four-way stretch is a strong choice because the fabric stretches in multiple directions.

• Stretch: choose stretch fabrics that allow enough freedom of movement.
• Recovery: the fabric should return neatly to its shape after stretching.
• Coverage: lighter colours may become more transparent when stretched or exposed to strong lighting.
• Shiny or matte: matte fabrics look calm and elegant, while shiny fabrics stand out more under stage lights.
• Breathability: mesh and lighter stretch fabrics are comfortable for intensive classes and rehearsals.
• Care: choose fabrics that keep their colour and shape after washing.

Working with lycra or stretch mesh? Use a stretch needle or ballpoint needle and an elastic stitch. This helps prevent broken seams and avoids damaging the fabric while sewing.

Applications of dance fabrics

Dance fabrics are used for many different projects. Think of ballet clothing, modern dancewear, jazz outfits, leotards, cheerleading costumes, show clothing, theatre costumes, carnival outfits and festival looks. They are also suitable for musical productions, dance schools and clubs.

By combining different materials, you can create many different effects. A base of matte lycra with stretch mesh inserts gives a modern and sporty look. Shiny lycra combined with tulle creates more show and volume. Hologram fabric can be added as an accent for extra reflection and movement under stage lighting.

Are you making several costumes for a group? Then it is smart to order fabric samples first and check the colours in advance. This way, you know the fabric matches the design, the lighting and the overall look of the choreography.

Order dance fabrics by the metre

At Rijs Textiles, you can easily order dance fabrics online by the metre. This is useful when you need fabric for one costume, but also when you need larger quantities for a dance group or atelier. Wholesale prices apply from 6 metres. Fabrics are shipped from our warehouse in Tilburg.

Explore the different types of dance fabrics and choose the material that suits your design: from matte and shiny lycra to stretch mesh, tulle and hologram fabrics. Create dancewear that feels comfortable, moves beautifully and makes a strong impression on stage.

Frequently asked questions about dance fabrics