One of the most common questions when making a rhythmic gymnastics leotard is whether it should have a full inner lining or not. The truth is there is no single correct answer, because it depends entirely on the type of leotard, its construction, and the number of layers and decoration it has.
In rhythmic gymnastics, a leotard must behave like a second skin. It not only needs to look beautiful, but it must allow freedom of movement, elasticity, and comfort throughout the entire routine. That's why choosing the right type of lining is a much more important decision than it might seem.
When fully lining a leotard is recommended
When the leotard design is simple and has few internal cuts, a full lining can be a good option — especially if the lycra or tulle is too sheer.
In this type of leotard:
- elasticity is barely affected,
- the garment remains comfortable,
- and it provides more security and coverage for the gymnast.
This works well for basic, training, or school leotards with few internal seams and little heavy decoration.
The problem with lining a haute couture leotard
The situation changes completely when we talk about handcrafted haute couture leotards.
A handcrafted competition leotard works almost like a puzzle:
- dozens of internal pieces,
- lycra cutouts,
- appliques,
- zigzag stitching,
- paint,
- rhinestones,
- very delicate seams,
- layers hollowed out at the back to avoid bulk.
In these cases, adding a full inner lining can cause the leotard to lose elasticity and comfort.
The result can be:
- excess thickness,
- a stiff feeling,
- less adaptation to the body,
- tightening,
- and loss of that second skin effect so important in rhythmic gymnastics.
That is why, in highly elaborate leotards, it is often better to avoid a full lining.
The options used in professional leotards
In high-end competition leotards, it is very common to opt for one of these solutions:
1. Wear a seamless flesh-colored body underneath
Many gymnasts wear an invisible, fitted, seamless body underneath the leotard, which provides coverage without adding tension to the leotard itself.
This way:
- the leotard maintains all its elasticity,
- no rigid inner layers are added,
- and the exterior finish looks much cleaner and lighter.
2. Line only the transparent areas
Another widely used option is to place foam lining only in the areas that really need coverage.
For example:
- sheer necklines,
- tulle backs,
- side panels,
- flesh-colored sections,
- or areas where the lycra may be see-through.
This achieves:
- maintaining the overall elasticity of the leotard,
- avoiding excess thickness,
- and reinforcing only the necessary areas.
A great leotard does not depend only on the design
It is often thought that a spectacular leotard depends solely on the drawing, rhinestones, or paint. But the reality is that the inner construction is one of the most important parts.
Knowing when to fully line, when to leave the leotard unlined, and when to use only foam lining is part of the technique that makes the difference between a beautiful leotard and a truly comfortable and professional one.
At Tanitex we have been developing specialized pattern-making systems for rhythmic gymnastics for over 20 years, always seeking the right balance between:
- aesthetics,
- comfort,
- elasticity,
- and real adaptation to the gymnast's body.
Because a leotard can be gorgeous... but if it does not adapt correctly to movement, it loses all its magic on the floor.
If you want to learn more about professional leotard pattern making, discover the Tanitex Base Pattern Kit (PDF/TIFF) and start building leotards with a professional foundation.