Christmas – it’s a time of joy, fun, family, hot cocoa and tinsel. But as merry and bright as this time of year may be, it can also be a bit daunting. What do you buy for everyone on your shopping list? What would your dancer friends want? And you – what do you put on your wish list so your aunt doesn’t get you another hideous sweater you’ll probably never wear?
To help, Dance Informa spoke to some of the most fashion-forward dancers to see what they’d choose to fill their Christmas stockings.
Young competition and reality TV stars Maddie Ziegler, Sophia Lucia and Kalani Hilliker are all particularly enamored by Capezio’s new Capezio Active range, especially the stylish grey and black leotards. Both Maddie and Kalani would love to see the new Dance Active Halter Leotard under the tree this year.
“This is a must-have because the leotard is so cute and comfy,” Maddie adds.
Sophia loves the similar Dance Active Shrug Leotard with stylish built-in mesh-like sleeves, which give a flattering, slimming arm line. She also fancies the bold colors and exciting lines in the Bradon Collection. You, too, may like to add the Downtown, Riverside and West Side leos to your wish list. The subtle criss-crosses and geometric patterns, and the flattering neck and back lines, are attention-grabbers for sure.
Start the new year off right with a new leotard and an inspiring new look.
The athletic and geometric Mosaic Racer Back Leotard, for instance, is a favorite of American Ballet Theatre Soloist Skylar Brandt. “I love the back on this leotard,” she says. “It is very sleek and simple in the most elegant way.”
Or you may love the pretty Diamond Lattice Leotard collection, for a very graceful look. English National Ballet dancer Tiffany Hedman particularly likes the gorgeous Strappy V Back Leotard with diamond lattice panel in the small of the back.
And for your fun and creative dancer friends, the Betsey Johnson First Impression/Second Impression Reversible Leotard would make a great gift – it’s like a two-in-one present!
“I love reversible leotards because whenever you want, you can just change the leo inside out!” adds Maddie.
With winter starting to set in, some new cover-ups are a must, making them a perfect Christmas gift. Both Maddie and Skylar can’t get enough of the new, stylish, romper-like Continental Cover Up.
“I’m obsessed with these knit jumpers!” Maddie exclaims. And Skylar adds, “This cover-up is warm, cozy and chic, perfect for the coming wintry weather.”
Tiffany adores the new Long Distance Wrap. This large, bright cable knit wrap is great for the studio and the street – so it’s a gift for dancers and non-dancers alike!
And with cold weather comes the season for leg warmers! They’re a staple for all dancers and a great idea for a stocking stuffer. The new Love Always Legwarmers, or the fun 8″ Tone Stripe Legwarmers, make for affordable and cherished gifts for any dancer in your life. And both Maddie and Skylar suggest the long 36″ Legwarmers.
And don’t forget ballet skirts – definite must-haves for ballet class. Sophia has the Capezio classic Chiffon Wrap Skirt on her wish list, and Kalani has her eye on the pretty Diamond Lattice Circle Skirt.
Dance class accessories also make great stocking stuffers. Dancers always need new Ouch Pouches® and hair accessories, and a new pointe shoe bag or cute ballet keychain would be greatly appreciated. Or how about a Footsie Roller, for the tired feet of the dancer you love. What dancer doesn’t want a foot massage?!
But if you still feel overwhelmed with choices and don’t know where to start, you can’t go wrong with a Capezio Gift Card – for your wish list or as a gift for a friend. Then, dancers can have fun picking out their favorites and go on their own shopping spree!
By Deborah Searle of Dance Informa.
Photo (top): Maddie Zeigler in Capezio. Photo courtesy of Capezio.