Slippers
Canvas split-sole is the common entry from age 6+.
Full-sole leather for ages 3-6.
Sized 1 size smaller than street shoe. Snug from heel to toe.
Pointe shoes
Only when the teacher says (typically age 11-12 with two years of pre-pointe technique).
Fitted at a specialty store. Brand, size, width, vamp depth all matter.
Leotard and tights
Style and color set by the school.
Footed tights for younger dancers. Convertible (footed with a hole at the heel) for older.