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Unveiling the Elegance: Ballet Trends in the 2024 Dance Season

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Step into the enchanting world of ballet as we unravel the highlights of the 2024 dance season. There’s more than just performance to think about!

From traditional classics to contemporary twists, this year’s ballet scene is a celebration of diversity, innovation, and timeless grace.

Join us as we explore the ballet trends that are stealing the spotlight and find the perfect inspiration for your next performance or dancewear ensemble.

  1. Classic meets Contemporary Ballet Wear: In the 2024 dance season, ballet fashion takes center stage with a fusion of classic and contemporary styles. Dancers are seamlessly blending traditional tutus and leotards with modern designs, creating a unique and sophisticated look.
  2. Tech-Enhanced Ballet Accessories: Technology is not just reserved for the stage; it’s making its mark on ballet accessories too. Explore how pointe shoe innovations and wearable tech are transforming the ballet experience. From smart fabrics to enhanced arch support, stay ahead of the curve with the latest advancements that promise both comfort and performance.
  1. Inclusive Ballet Shoes for Every Dancer: Diversity takes center stage in the ballet community, and this season is no exception. Discover the latest trends in inclusive ballet shoes, catering to a wide range of skin tones and foot shapes. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding ballerina, find the perfect pair that not only complements your style but also celebrates the beauty of individuality. Contact us if this is something you want!
  2. Ballet-Inspired Fitness Gear: The influence of ballet extends beyond the stage and into the realm of fitness. Dive into the world of ballet-inspired workout gear, combining elegance with functionality. Explore how dance enthusiasts can incorporate ballet elements into their fitness routines with specially designed apparel and accessories.
  3. Online Ballet Boutiques: Embark on a virtual shopping journey with the rise of online ballet boutiques. Explore curated collections of ballet wear, accessories, and dance-inspired fashion from the comfort of your home. Stay connected with the latest trends and shop for quality ballet essentials without missing a pirouette. Our shop is your first stop!

The 2024 dance season brings a whirlwind of excitement to the ballet scene, showcasing a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Stay ahead of the curve with the latest trends in ballet fashion, accessories, and inclusive offerings. Whether you’re a seasoned ballet enthusiast or a newcomer to the dance world, let the trends of this season inspire your passion for the art of ballet.

Dive into the enchanting world of ballet fashion, where elegance knows no bounds. What’s more – you can always comment on our articles as you go along!

How old – or young – do you have to be to start ballet lessons?

Dancing - General Info

How old must my daughter be when I send her to her first ballet / jazz / other dance class?

I am 15 years old, am I too old to being dance classes?

How young were you when you started ballet?  I was 3 years old – I could dance as soon as I could toddle.  And there began a lifelong – if rocky – relationship with the art form.  That was ballet.  Many ballet classes are available at the age of 3.  Usually called Babies  Class, the one before pre-primary.  Sometimes there is Baby Ballet – for the real toddlers in their terrible two’s. I ventured into other forms of dance as well – ballet remains my personal favourite, but other forms work well for me too, especially neoclassical / jazz.

You are never too late to begin to dance – in any shape or form, and any discipline.  You may still have a chance of working your way up to a very advanced level if you have what it takes – and that includes perseverance,  as I was always told. Perseverance is the determination that keeps you going in the face of all adversity, and the will and energy to keep going, to get better and to learn.  Because, like life, dance is a constant journey of learning.  When we stop learning, we grind to a halt.

 

 

A little girl in a tutu
Sansha little girls’ tutu

 

To my mind, ballet is the basis for all other forms of dance: you first learn the rules before you can break them. Ballet gave me suppleness, a sense of rhythm, strong legs and a dancer’s back.  Not that I’m any form of ballerina, but the stance never leaves you.  I still remember wearing a crown on my head with Ms Jenny Delicata, my first and most loved ballet teacher, wearing a tutu for the first time with Ms Alison White, going en pointe for the first time with Ms Joanna Rummolino and performing at the Manoel for the first time ever in full ballet tutus, sylphides and so on with Ms Brigitte Gauci Borda.

With other forms of dance, it is common to start later – say aged 7 or 8.  This is when the young dancer begins to discern between different types of dance, favourite forms of movement, and preferred modes of expressing their artistic talent. Children should be allowed to experiment, but we still think that ballet forms the basis for most forms: and that those students who have a ballet background have an advantage over those who don’t.

In short – starting as young as the age of 3 gives the proper stance that will last a lifetime, whether or not they continue to dance.  Of course, starting later is an option – and with other forms of dance, it’s probably the way to go as classes would not be available at such an early age.

Whatever the age, our shop provides a wide range of dancewear, and you can always contact us if you don’t see what you want.

Opening Times to start the Scholastic Term

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We all know how busy it gets with the beginning of the new scholastic term.  Not only do mums and dads have to buy the new stuff for school, or students get their gear together, for school, college or university, but one has to plan  the purchase of new things that may be required for the new scholastic dance term.

This year you can opt to beat the queues by ordering online and simply collecting, especially if you are sure of what your requirements are.  By accepting Paypal, if you are at College of Dance, we can leave your order with the school’s office, and you have peace of mind with regard to your payment.

In the event that the website does not showcase the item you need, you can always send us an email and we will create your order and send you a paypal invoice.

For the start of term, we will be opening on the 18th, 19th and 20th September from 17:15 (approximately), and then we will open every day for the week of the 25th, and as needed thereafter.

How are Pointe Shoes made?

News, Pointe Shoes

Pointe shoes involve a complex manufacturing process requiring great expertise. Each manufacturer uses unique methods and designs; however, most pointe shoes are made using basic components and a basic  form. The upper part of the shoe (the body) is sewn together from several pieces of satin.  There often is a lining made of cotton.

A toe box is created on the body from many layers of paste and burlap. Typically, a sole has three parts: the outer sole, the insole and the shank.  Shanks are generally made of cardboard, fibreboard or leather.  The material chosen, the layers, the skiving of the sole (making it thinner at the heel end) and cutting or shaping of areas will determine the strength and flexibility of the sole.  With the use of glue and nails, the shank fits between the outer sole and the insole.

The box is molded on a last, which is a shoemaker’s form. The last actually used will determine the shape and size of the shoe. Every manufacturer needs many lasts, to be able to make many different shapes (models) and sizes.

Most traditional shoes have pleating behind the toe platform at the tip of the box. These are formed when the single forward satin section is folded in around the box and tucked under the outer sole. Some traditional shoes use foam beneath the pleats.

Once the shoe has its basic shape, it needs to be refined: this requires precise shaping to create a smooth, symmetrical box, even pleats and a balanced platform, which allows the shoe to stand up on its own.

Sansha’s ranges vary from machine-stitched to hand-stitched, which is why prices sometimes vary.  There are both beginners’ / students’ shoes and professional shoes: your choice will depend on the strength of your feet.

Always air your pointe shoes after use: never stuff them in your bag and leave them there, as the humidity from your feet during class will not dry out and this will soften the box and cause them to become unusable.

The size dilemma

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As the end of the scholastic year approaches, we are in the process of re-stocking our shelves, and are offering many items on sale.  We are thus encouraging everyone to get their stuff by the 1st September, which is when the sale expires.  We are sure you will find much to please you.

Note, however, our FAQ on sizes: if you are buying dancewear or shoes for a child, make sure the sizing is more or less correct closer to term as you could risk having items which are too big or too small.  This can be dangerous with shoes, and uncomfortable with clothes.

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