July Favorites

Here's what I've been loving in July!

Dancewear:

Gaynor Minden Bamboo Knit Shorts (available from dancer.com)

These shorts are made of rayon from bamboo, so they are super soft and comfy.  In the warmer months, I like to wear light warm-ups that allow me to cover up and get my body moving without making me super sweaty.  These shorts are great for warming up the hips without being too hot and clingy.  They are also breathable, which makes them a better choice than trash bag shorts for super hot months. 

Forever 21 ribbed V-neck Crop Top (available at Forever21 stores and on forever21.com)

I like wearing crop tops over leotards on my way to and from the studio.  They are also a great choice to cover an open back leo if you have Pilates or modern class right after ballet.  Tops like this one are great for summer class because they are lightweight and have large neck openings for easy on and off without messing up hairstyles.

Sketchers Go Walk 3 Super Sock Slip on Sneakers (available at sketchers.com and at some Sketchers retailers)

These shoes are so comfy.  The insole is made of super springy yoga mat material, and the sole features treads shaped for optimum alignment and stabilization.  The insides of the shoe is lined with soft material, and the heel area is cushioned.  If you like closed-toed shoes, these are perfect to throw on after class (even if your feet are blistered and swollen).  If you are doing any city walking or sightseeing as part of a tour or intensive, these shoes are awesome in terms of comfort and support.  The style isn't bad either. 

Skinfood Black Sugar Wash Off Mask (available from amazon.com)

This skincare mask is from the Korean beauty brand Skinfood, which specializes in nourishing the skin with effective and affordable products.  This mask exfoliates and moisturizes the skin for a glowing complexion.  In the summer, I get clogged pores from sweating a lot in class.  I use this mask twice a week to clear my pores and keep acne from developing.  This mask is most effective for dry and acne prone skin, but it is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. 

Julep Jelly Nail Polish in shade "Ming" (available from julep.com)

I like having neatly polished nails, and my nails feel stronger when they are painted.  I usually stick to neutral colors (most dancers do), but a little color once in a while is lots of fun, especially for summer.  Julep's Jelly formulas are sheer, so you can get a wash of color that is not overwhelming.  I love this lilac pink shade because it's close to a neutral, but it pops a little.  This color also looks good with all skin tones.  It does not appear super pale next to darker skin.

Uber LaraBars (available at most grocery stores)

Like many dancers, granola bars are a staple in my diet.  I have been trying out different bars (usually based on what is on sale at my local grocery) to see what I like best.  These are a real winner for me.  These bars contain an average of 5 grams of protein, which isn't a ton, but it's enough to make a snack filling and nutritious.  With flavors like coconut macaroon and cherry cobbler, these bars can be breakfast, snack, or dessert.  The bars contain limited natural ingredients, so they are super healthy and friendly to gluten free and dairy free diets.