Winter Warm-Up Wear

Well its that time of year again when the snow starts piling up, the winter wear comes out and the heat is constantly cranked. Let's face it dancers we live in Canada and it's chilly here throughout the winter months. You arrive at the studio all bundled up in your warmest winter boots and coat and then have to take that all off to head into class wearing only a bodysuit and tights! Not exactly fun on a -20 night now is it!

As a teacher I want my students to come to class feeling comfortable and warm (there's nothing worse than freezing for the first 15 minute of class) however I have a hard time in the winter months when my students come to class wearing hoodies and baggy sweat pants. If its a particularly cold night I'll be kind and let it slide for the first exercise but usually after that I'll ask for the loose fitting clothes to come off.

The problem with wearing hoodies, sweat pants and loose fitting tops to class is that your teacher is unable to see your body. This mean they cannot tell if you are using your posture correctly and therefore cannot adequately give you corrections. It's also slightly disrespectful to the art form and can be a distraction in the classroom to you and other students (especially clothing with large logos etc.)

Dancers do not fear there is such a thing as appropriate warm-up wear . Let me share with a you a few great styles that I'm sure your teachers will be happy to let you keep on during barre, jazz warm-up or whatever class you might be taking.

These Irina & Max Warm Up Bootie Boots by Bloch are great for keeping the feet warm in the studio both before going to class and if you're hanging around for awhile waiting between classes and rehearsals. They are comfy and stylish for use at the dance school and come in a variety of colours. 

The Marcy Roll Over Waist Knit Pants are super cozy and warm. These pants are fantastic because they provide full leg coverage for optimal warmth during the coldest winter months, and are snug and fitted so do not pose any problems for the teachers ability to see and give corrections. 

This full body jumpsuit is a classic and wonderful piece of warm-up wear for any Canadian dancer. These suits can be purchased through Dance Direct and a variety of other warm-up suits can be purchased from Capezio & Bloch.

Ballet sweaters will always be around in a variety of colors and variations of the same basic style. You would be able to find something similar to these Bloch sweaters at any dance store and can often find similar styled sweaters at a variety of women's clothing stores. As long as it is fitted and snug it should be acceptable for a ballet or dance class.

Lastly a good pair of leg warmers can go a long way! They are always so cozy to wear to class and are great for keeping feet and ankles warm in the winter months. They can be found in so many different lengths, colors and styles these days so have fun! 

Cute Capezio leg warmers. 

With Christmas just around the corner these items would be great to put on your Christmas wishlist! As with any dace wear please make sure to check with your studio dress code policy before purchasing warm-up wear. Some schools only want sweaters of a certain color (ie. black) so make sure you'll be able to use what you purchase!

Also remember to shop locally and support your neighborhood dance shops- I'm sure you will be able to find similar styled items.

Happy Dancing-

Miss Jordan