6 Christmas Gift Ideas (For A Teenage Dancer)

I get asked this question a lot, what to buy for the teenage dancer. No longer are they happy with a notebook with Angelina Ballerina on the front, or a pencil with a dance on top. They are now after a more sophisticated present that still tells the world they ‘dance’! I’m hoping the following list will offer some inspiration for all you frustrated gift givers and help you in your search for the perfect dancer gift!

1/ A new dance bag, I would suggest sticking to a black or single colour bag (the days of glittery bags with ballerinas on the front has passed). However, a more subtle bag with one of their favourite brands logo on it is still acceptable and means if anyone asks what’s ‘Capezio’ they get to say it’s a dance brand – of cause!

2/ Warm Up Booties – These are for all dancers and a firm favourite to show the world ‘yes I dance’. They are ideal for keeping you warm on the way too and during any performance. They are also extremely comfortable and available in numerous colours.

3/Emergency Kit – This is a present you would have to put together yourself and depends on what type of dance your dancer does. For example, for the ballerina on pointe I would make a pack with rosin, pink thread, and needle in it. A pair of pink tights and plasters. For the tapper I would have black ankle socks, replacement tap screws, laces and again plasters!

4/ Dancewear to wear everyday – You may think that dancewear is only for in class but you would be wrong. Teenage dancers lead very busy lives going from school to class, meeting up with friends to class, family activities to going to … yes you have guessed right … dance class! This means wearing something out which they can comfortably wear in class is ideal. For instance, dance leggings with extra stretch in them. A dance top or which they can wear on its own or under a t-shirt saves worrying about getting changed at the studio.

5/ Different style of leotard – Many studio’s require their dancers to wear one colour of leotard, black, pink, navy or mulberry to name a few. Teenager’s wanting to express their individuality will not be happy sticking to the plain leo leotard if this is the case. Yes they will stick to the rules regarding colour but if they can find a leotard with a bit of a twist to it all the better.

6/ The ‘in trend’ item – This is the in vogue present that changes depending on what is in at the time. A few years ago it was the turning board. Then the balancing board, foot stretcher and right now I would say its socks to help with your turns. There are also the staple ‘trend’ items your ankle weights, foot roller, ballet barre and exercise bands.

I hope you have found some sort of inspiration in this list for even the fussiest of teenager!