Dress Code and Gear
Links are provided for examples. Exact products are not required.
Girls' Ballet:
- Black leotard or leotard
- Ballet pink transition tights. Quality tights have “built in panties” so additional underwear is not needed. If you do choose to wear underwear, it should not be visible at any time.
- Either leather or canvas ballet pink ballet shoes. Level III and up should begin phasing into Bloch split sole shoes in Theatrical Pink. Avoid ProElastic and Synchrony unless professionally fitted. Elastosplit is NOT permitted. Leather or Canvas is permitted. Example
- For safety and uniformity in class, hair should be secured neatly away from the face and neck. A traditional ballet bun is preferred; however, we recognize that this may not be possible or appropriate for all hair types. Neat, secure alternatives such as braids, twists, or other protective styles are fully acceptable, provided they keep hair off the face, are secure, and do not interfere with movement. Helpful tutorials: Ballet Bun Tutorial or Ballet Bun for Extra Long or Heavy Hair.
- Yoga mat that can be rolled up. A strap is handy. Creative Movement students do not need a mat or strap at this time.
- Optional: Ballet wrap-style sweater (No ties, skirts, or "extra" clothes)
- Optional: Teens and up are permitted to wear a short ballet skirt. (No ties)
- Optional: Sweat pants and sweatshirts may be worn at the beginning of class only if it is exceptionally cold.
- Please label all items with your name
- Bring a no spill water bottle
Boys' Ballet
- White t-shirt
- Black biker or jersey type shorts
- Either leather or canvas black ballet shoes
- Yoga mat that can be rolled up. A strap is handy. Creative Movement students do not need a mat or strap at this time.
- Optional: Sweat pants and sweatshirts may be worn at the beginning of class only if it is exceptionally cold.
- Please label all items with your name
- Bring a no spill water bottle
Pointe Shoes (point class only)
Prior approval is required.
Please make an appointment with an approved boutique and schedule with me so that we can attend together in person or virtually.
I recommend Liesl Danwear in Woodbridge, Barre and Pointe in Leesburg, VA, and I hear good things about Footlights in Frederick, MD.
Please contact them in advance regarding appointments.
Adult Ballet
At Etudes, our studio is a space for everyone. We welcome a wide variety of attire; you will see students in everything from traditional ballet wear to leggings and activewear. Whatever you choose, please prioritize your own comfort and confidence. While form-fitting clothing is helpful for us to observe and refine your alignment, we encourage you to wear whatever makes you feel prepared to move and focused on your progress. You will feel right at home regardless of your choice.
Leather or canvas ballet slippers. Reputable brands are Capezio, Bloch, Sanshas, and the affordable Stelle
The BEGINNING & INTERMEDIATE & FITNESS ADULT class will also need a YOGA mat. We have many you may borrow as well.