Article Surfing Archive

A long, lithe body is ideal for a dancer but everyone is not blessed to have one naturally. For those who need a little help in that area, certain items of dancewear can be worn to project a more streamlined image to flow with fluid dance movements. From the cut of a leotard to the arch of a ballet shoe, note the following points to look and perform your best.

Head

To create a longer line for your head and neck you should wear a high bun. It does not need to be on the top of your head, but it should be a little higher than the back, center portion of your head. You should use bobby pins, gel, and hair spray to keep your hair in place and out of your face. You may also want to use a hairnet that matches the color of your hair to keep all of the fly-a-ways in place.

Neck,Shoulders and Back

Your leotard, or the bodice of your tutu, should have a low v-neckline to make your neck look longer. It should also open up wide to the ends of your shoulders to open up the chest area. Leotards and tutu bodices with these features will help to make a more graceful appearance for your entire upper body. Also, for a flattering ballet line on your back, wear a low v back - this should be several inches lower than the front of your leotard.

Arms

It is wise not to wear tank or short sleeve ballet leotards because they may shorten your arms. Wear a camisole leotard to elongate and flatter your arms. Long sleeved leotards will do the same thing and can make your arms appear thinner. Arms are very important in ballet, therefore it is essential to do everything you can to make them look good.

Color

As everyone knows, black is by far the most flattering color to put on your body. Other dark colors may be flattering as well, depending on your skin tone. If you want to wear a color, but are unsure of what color would look good on you, mid to dark shades of blue are usually very nice looking on everyone.

Stay tuned for part two of this article: Use Dancewear to Enhance and Elongate Your Lower Body.