What Supplies Do You Need for Ballet?
Basic dance attire is required in most studios, although color choices are usually up to the new dancer's preference. Aside from the basic ballet supplies, remember to dress in warm-up wear at the beginning of the class. This keeps your muscles warm and helps prevent a lesson marred by injury.
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Footwear
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Dancers can appear to defy gravity in pointe shoes. The most important item in a ballet dancer's bag are her shoes. Women's ballet shoes are made in a very soft leather while male dancers usually wear canvas footwear. Not only are leather shoes highly flexible and the most durable, they are also the most expensive. Satin ballet shoes are worn for performances only as the fabric is more delicate and wears out after minimal use. Serious dancers train using pointe shoes, which will allow them to appear to be dancing in their tip toes.
Leotard
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Dancers can move freely in leotards. Leotards are very close-fitting dance wear which cover only the torso. The dancer's legs remain uncovered. Leotards may be long or short sleeved, or sleeveless and are available in a number of styles. They are worn, not only by dancers but gymnasts, athletes and circus performers. They allow for ease and freedom of movement while training or performing --- and an opportunity to see the dancer's beautifully athletic physique.
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Tights
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Tights were originally used to beautify dancer's legs. Most dancers wear tights with their leotards. They were first worn in a flesh tone which was thought to compliment the dancer's legs. Tights cover the lower body from the waist down and are worn by male and female dancers alike to help keep the leg muscles warm. Although they can be footed, footless, convertible or with stirrups, most dancers opt for the footed style.
Extras
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Many dancers wear leg warmers at practice. Decorative extras for ballet include tutus and ballet skirts. A tutu is a net skirt made of tulle. It can be long or short and often starched to make it stand out around the ballerina's hips. Ballet skirts are simple pieces usually worn over the leotard at practice. Many dancers also opt for leg warmers. They are worn over the lower legs and ankles, keeping muscles supple to prevent injury.
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References
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