ballet bag essentials
What’s in my ballet bag?
Among the many accessories and garments that make up my ballet wardrobe, there are a few essentials that are an absolute must for my ballet bag. Being not yet en pointe in my dance journey, this list will not include a sewing kit, toe pads or anything related to pointe shoes. So without further ado, here are my top four ballet bag- essentials as a beginner adult ballet dancer:
1) Warm-up Booties
When I started ballet again a few years back, I was at first a bit skeptical about this one. Turns out, I absolutely love the warm-up booties! They are so comfortable and do an amazing job of keeping both my feet and ankles warm before a ballet workout. Before and during a ballet class, there might often be moments where you are standing around, waiting for the lesson to start or simply walking from the dressing room to the studio. During these times, it's easy for your feet to get cold when walking around in your socks or ballet flats. Having a cozy pair of booties to throw on makes will help you keep your feet warmed up for training. My current favorite booties are from the French brand Dansez-Vous, which I have in black and pink.
2) Leg Warmers
Another warm-up essential. Unlike the warm-up booties, leg warmers often stay on throughout my entire ballet class. I adore leg warmers in all sizes, colors, and styles, but my favorites are probably knee-high leg warmers. I find these so stylish, plus they tend to stay in place better than the shorter ones, which often slip down to my ankles. Leg warmers are usually the part of my ballet outfit where I like to expand my color palette the most, for example color-matching my leg warmers with my leotard, with simple white tights underneath. I often buy leg warmers from my favourite ballet boutique in town Piruetti, but recently, I’ve started stitching my own!
3) Massage Ball
A massage ball is something I simply couldn’t live without. I toss one into every bag and use it whenever I get the chance. When it comes to preparing for ballet class, a massage ball or foam roller are absolute must-haves to warm-up before training and avoid foot cramps.
4) HAIRPINS
Finally, no matter how perfectly secure my bun might look when I leave the house, I know it’s gonna fall down, eventually - and the hairpins get lost here and there on the floor. There’s nothing more distracting than loose strands flying around during turns, jumps, and third port de bras. While it might be that I still need to refine my bun technique, for the time being, carrying a small bag of extra hairpins with me is an absolute must. Along with those, hairspray and a comb will also come in handy.
