Why is a dress code important?
– Dancers that look like dancers start to feel like dancers. Have you ever heard that you should dress for the job you want not the job you have?
– Dancers that are in properly fitting dance clothing are not distracted by their clothing. Tights should be specific dance tights (not sweater tights or something you would wear under a Christmas dress). Leotards should cover their bodies, provide adequate support where needed, and have enough stretch that they stay in place while dancing. Tank tops, pants, and shorts should stay put while dancing and not leave dancers exposed. Most leggings (unless they are specifically sold for athletic activities) are not going to work.
-Dress code can help to remind dancers that they are a part of a group. This is especially true in ballet- nothing makes us happier then seeing a whole class room of students in black leotards and pink tights. It is also easier for the teacher and the students to spot mistakes.
-Dancers that are dressed appropriately are more confident. Most likely your student’s instructor will remind the class about dress code from time to time. As instructors, we always feel a little bad when it isn’t really the child’s fault that the parent isn’t sending them to class prepared. Some kids really take these gentle reminders to heart! Give them one less thing to stress about in class.
– Dancers shouldn’t be concerned that their hair is going to fall out or be constantly pushing it out of their face. This is another distraction that pulls away from their training. Ballet dancers need a bun and all other dancers need a ponytail. Most students are going to need an extra hair tie, bobby pins, clips, and a little hairspray for it to be secure. Feeling lost? Ask your child’s instructor. Most dance teachers have many years under their belt of putting their hair up and can offer some hints to make it easier. Youtube is another great resource.
– At the start of each session, we encourage parents to look at how much their child is dancing though out the week and take the time purchase enough dance wear. One nice leotard and a pair of dance tights is going to be better then several ill fitting options. Your child will most likely need to try things on to get a good fit. Make them jump up and down and stretch towards their toes. Does everything stay where it should? Dedicate these outfits only for dance class, not for everyday wear. Test run the hair. Find a small bag to keep their shoes in. By taking the time to purchase items specifically for dance class you are sending the message to your child that you believe in them, that what they are doing is really important, and that you are trusting that they are going to work hard and take their training seriously. Set them up for success and keep the focus where it should be..on their dancing.
Please visit “Opening Night” to purchase your dress attire.
Mention the studio and they will help you select the items you need based on the age/class you are taking, Opening Night will also make sure that your shoes fit properly. It is imperative that all students follow the following dress code.
Opening Night – 2 locations for your convenience
163 Granville St.
Gahanna, Oh 43230
614-337-9733
(Closest location – 25 minutes from the studio)
6371 Sawmill Rd.
Dublin, Oh 43017
614-764-0033
Creative Movement: Black Leotard, Pink Tights, Pink Ballet Slippers (Bloch #203)
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Ballet: Black Leotard, Pink Tights, Black Short Chiffon Skirt optional, Pink Ballet Shoes
(Bloch #203) *you must have Pink Split Sole Ballet Shoes. Hair must be pulled back into a neat ballet bun. A hair net is necessary to keep bun contained.
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Tap: Black Leotard, Black Tights, Black Oxford Tap Shoes
(Tap shoes are a dancer’s instrument; it is important to get the right quality tap shoes that make the right sounds)
Level 1 students – Bloch #3710
Level 2 – 4 students – Bloch #381 – a higher quality/longer lasting shoe.
LEVEL 5 and Competition Tap – Recommended to purchase Bloch “Jason Samuel Smith” lace up tap shoes.
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Jazz: Black Leotard or Black Sports Bra/Black Spandex Shorts, Black Tights are optional, Black split-sole slip on shoes (#499) (No laces)
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
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Turns, Leaps & Tricks and Stretch & Conditioning: Black Leotard or Black Sports Bra/Black Spandex Shorts, Dancer can select what shoes they wish to wear: Jazz, Contemporary or Ballet. Some dancers may wish to go bare foot.
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Hip Hop: Wear a Black Leotard or Black tank top and shorts/leggings as a base. Add your own accessories such as a comfy t-shirt, long sleeve shirt around your waist or hat to give yourself that “hip hop” flare! Bring your own pair of new, clean sneakers designated just for dance class. A pair of converse or similar with a flat sole is preferred. Pull hair out of face in a neat ponytail.
Acrobatics: Black Leotard, Black Spandex Shorts are optional, bare feet
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Contemporary: Black Leotard or Black Sports Bra/Black Spandex Shorts
Pink Conversion Tights are optional
Shoes – “Capezio Pirouette II”. You may also need a pair of pink split sole ballet shoes (Bloch #203)
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Pointe: Black Leotard, Pink Conversion Tights, Black Short Chiffon Skirt, Professionally fitted Pointe Shoes
(No t-shirts will be permitted.)
Boys/Men: White fitted t-shirt, black dance pants, dance belt, appropriate shoe to fit the style of dance taken (see below)
Shoes:
Ballet – Black Bloch #205
Jazz – Black split-sole slip on shoes (#499) (No laces)
Tap – Black Oxford Tap shoes (Beginner students – Bloch #3710) or (Intermediate/Advanced students – Bloch #381 – a higher quality/longer lasting shoe.)
Hip Hop – Your own pair of new, clean sneakers designated just for dance class. A pair of converse or similar with a flat sole are preferred.
Acrobatics – Bare Feet