Every dancer is an individual and has special, unique attributes that help them stand out. Whether it is during a stage performance or at an audition or in class, these qualities can be noticed. Even though everyone may be learning the same techniques or combination, there is a beauty in the way that no two dancers are exactly alike. And it is for this reason that it is so important to learn to be yourself.
Só Dança’s BE YOU™ Collection is the perfect bridge for dancers to truly show what they’re made of, not only in skill but also in the way they present themselves in class. Here, we talk to Miami City Ballet Principal Nathalia Arja, who is in her 12th season with the company and is also one of the faces of Só Dança’s BE YOU™ Collection, about what it has meant to her as a ballet dancer.
Arja shares, “Só Dança called me about their BE YOU™ Collection, and I was excited to be a part of it. It’s about ‘you being you.‘ I have been described as confident and uplifting by others, and as a ballet dancer where the job can be so hard, it is important to look through with positivity. The BE YOU™ Collection is refreshing because it encourages the artform while being able to maintain a sense of lightness.”
In true form, Só Dança’s BE YOU™ Collection offers a versatile selection that embraces a variety of body types as well as style preferences. The collection also boasts an amazing variety in leotards, yoga pants and dance tops that sets them apart from other dance collections. The BE YOU™ Fierce leotard is one of many that lives up to its name with a sleek design in the front and a touch of flare with the design elements of the straps in the back. For those who love a bit of tulle with a touch of elegance and lace, the BE YOU™ Juliet leotard does not disappoint with its V-neck cap sleeves. And if you’re feeling extra dynamic one day, the BE YOU™ Wild leotard is a perfect choice to suit your mood.
Leotards are just the beginning of what Só Dança’s BE YOU™ Collection offers, which is something that Arja enjoys. Other stunning products from the collection include the BE YOU™ V-Neck Bralette Top with Lace Accents and the flowy BE YOU™ Let it Be Jumper, perfect for heading to and from the studio.
“BE YOU™ embraces the sports aspect, not just the balletic, which is what I love about it,” says Arja. “From one leo to the other, it’s part of your instrument as a dancer, and I feel fierce whenever I wear a BE YOU™ leotard. Their beautiful designs seem to bring something out of you.”
Arja and other Só Dança brand ambassadors recently celebrated National Dance Day on September 18, by wearing something from the BE YOU™ collection and embracing themselves for who they are, with confidence. Arja teases to be on the lookout for something new and amazing in the making with Só Dança, and she also offers some words of wisdom that have solidified how much the BE YOU™ Collection means to her and how it will impact other dancers moving forward.
“I always tell my students that being an artist is a unique type of job,” Arja says. “When you watch somebody, you will be inspired, but you want to be yourself, not them. I have a loving exercise that I do where I remind myself that I am here and chosen because there is something unique that I bring to the table. BE YOU™ embraces what you bring and how you impact those around you.”
She adds, “The most important part of being a dancer is sharing the work. It would not be complete without the audience to share the joy, the love and the passion that I have for this art form. Be proud of who you are. Do not compromise your true self in order to please someone because the only person who will end up hurting is you.”
To shop the BE YOU™ Collection from Só Dança, head to www.sodanca.com/collections/be-you-collection.
By Monique George of Dance Informa.
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