Brand Spotlight: Ainsliewear

Ainslie Cyopik, a retired professional ballet dancer, created her own line of dancewear to better suit the needs of professionals.  Now, her designs are some of the most popular and stylish in North America.  Ainsliewear supplies school uniforms to the school of the National Ballet of Canada.

pronunciation	Ains-lee-wear
website	ainsliewear.com
styles of dance included	ballet, modern/contempoarary/lyrical
types of items	bodywear, warm-ups
country of origin	Canada
price point	lower-end luxury
quality	excellent
availability	Available at some local dancewear stores in the US and abroad.  Full availability on ainsliewear.com.
sizing	leotards/bodywear: true to size
Jillian’s top pick	zip front leotards
Jillian’s item to avoid	Personally not a fan of the Eve, Nadia, or Marcela leotard—too sexy for ballet.

My costume is really expensive!

Dance costumes for all occasions (recital, competition, etc.) often cost a bit more than expected.  However, once you understand the reason for the price, they often seem more reasonable.  I will detail some of the most common costume expense situations below.

1.       My studio is ordering recital costumes and is charging a higher price than I can find online for the same costume (and I'm required to order through the studio).  I get to keep the costume after the show.  First and foremost, try not to get upset about this.  There are often a few understandable reasons for the price hike.  Teachers and directors want to have control over the colors, sizes, etc. of all the costumes, so it is much less chaotic when one person is ultimately responsible for all costumes.  This does require extra work for the director; she will probably have to measure students, place orders, organize the costumes, possibly alter them so they fit better, etc.  Some of the increased cost goes to reimbursing the director and assistants for this extra work.  Dance studios are generally for-profit businesses, so the studio is generally more successful the more money it brings in.  If you really can't afford the higher price, speak privately with the director and see if it would be possible to work out a discount.

2.       The custom costume I am getting for a competition costs a fortune!  Special costumes are usually really expensive, especially classical tutus.  There are two main reasons why these items cost so much: materials and labor.  Fabrics like velvet and satin are more expensive than less sumptuous options like cotton.  Sometimes these fabrics are $20 or more per yard, and a costume often requires several yards.  It can take up to 120 yards of tulle (which usually costs $1-$5 a yard) to make a classical tutu.  Any "bling" or embellishments also add to materials cost.  Authentic pearls or crystals can cost $100 for the amount needed to embellish a bodice.  It takes many hours (up to a few hundred) for a person to design and assemble a costume.  If you paid a costumer minimum wage (in my state, that's about $9 an hour) to create a classical tutu and bodice, labor alone would cost about $1,000.  Add in materials cost, and you're easily looking at $2,000 or more for a relatively simple outfit.  If you need to save money, try purchasing a costume secondhand and having it altered to fit you.  You can also purchase ready-made pieces and embellish them yourself to save. 

3.       The company is charging a "costuming fee," but the costume is old and I don’t get to keep it after the show.  This is common when students at ballet academies get to perform in story ballets.  Most companies have troves of costumes, and there is a specific set of costumes that goes with each ballet.  The characters in Swan Lake will always wear the same costumes, regardless of what dancers are dancing the parts.  Because of this, dancers will never be allowed to keep costumes after the show.  This would deplete the company of it's costume stock.  The fee you are paying is usually put toward the cleaning and altering of the costume.  Costumes should be dry cleaned before and/or after each run of shows, and this can get pricey if the costume is delicate or requires a lot of special care.  Companies also alter costumes to fit each dancer, and this requires materials and labor.  Your costuming fee is reimbursing the company for the costume cleaning, as well as paying the people who alter the costumes.  As in example 1, speak to the director if you legitimately can't afford the costuming fee.  You can usually work something out.

What do I wear when trying a class at a new studio?

The midway point of the academic year (between fall and spring semesters) can be a good time to change studios.  Are you trying out a new studio this January?  If so, think carefully about what you will wear to your first class to make the best impression.  (Note: This guide pertains to experienced dancers who are changing studios, not beginning dancers or those changing styles.)

First, consider the studio's dress code.  Are students required to wear all black?  Is a certain style of leotard required?  Make sure you know what the other students are wearing before you select your outfit.  It's not necessary that you look exactly like everyone else when you are just testing the waters, but it's important to think about.

In general, you should follow the dress code to the best of your ability without purchasing any new dancewear.  If the class you will be trying requires female students to wear black tank leotards, it's ok for you to wear your black camisole leo if you don't own a tank.  It is not appropriate for you to wear another, brighter color if you have black leos in your collection.  (If, for example, you only own red leotards because that was the uniform at your previous school, ask the new studio's director if it is ok to wear what you have to your trial class.  They will usually say it's ok.)

Always wear clean dancewear that is in good repair, and choose more modest dancewear if you can.  It's better to wear longer shorts to the first class and see if bootie shorts are allowed for later rather than going ahead and wearing short shorts that may be against the dress code or studio culture.

Do one small thing to stand out if it is allowed.  Hair accessories are good choices, especially small bows or colorful clips.  Note that some studios do not allow accessories or embellishments, and you should always obey these rules.

Never wear dancewear with the logo or name of another school on it.  Pieces that show the name of your old studio or somewhere you attended a summer course can make it seem like you like that place better than the new studio.   Just to play it safe, choose plain dancewear pieces.

Be prepared to dance in the "bare minimum" if requested.  For example, if you are taking a ballet class, be prepared to be asked to take off your wrap skirt and warm ups and dance in just your tights and leo.  If you're doing jazz, you may be asked to take off your longer t-shirt and wear just a bra top and shorts.  To prepare for this, choose dancewear that fits appropriately and doesn't need covering up for modesty or fit.

If you wear makeup, don't over do it.  A little concealer, mascara, and lip gloss can enhance your look in a good way.  You want the teachers and directors to get to know what you look like, so don't wear more makeup than you would for any other dance class.  If you normally wear a lot of makeup, consider toning it down so you look fresh and ready to learn.

Most importantly, don't let your appearance distract you or detract from your confidence.  If you are wearing a different color or style than the other students, it's ok.  It's just for one class.  Focus more on your technique then your look, and you'll certainly be fine.

Ballet fashion police

If you are a teen or adult female ballet dancer, it can be a little difficult to put together the perfect outfit for class, especially if you are relatively new to dance.  Some combinations look great, and others are just . . . off.  Some things look cute on the rack, but unflattering or immature when tried on.  I always encourage dancers to wear what makes them most comfortable as long as it follows the dress code, so if you like wearing something that I advise against in this post, feel free to ignore me and keep on groovin’.  However, I know that sometimes things look “not quite right” and it can be tough to put your finger on just what needs to change.  This post is meant to help you put together outfits that are age appropriate, stylish, and contribute to confidence.

--Choose pink, black, or gray convertible, footless, or stirrup tights.  Avoid nude or skin-tone tights for ballet.  They make you look like you have bare legs, which tends to be a no-no in ballet.  Full footed tights are usually only worn by young children.

--Pink tights can be worn over or under a leotard.  I recommend wearing black or gray tights over a leotard.  Wearing them under a leotard can look kind of “80s aerobics.”

--If you wear tights over a leotard, wear the waistband lower on your hips rather than pulling it all the way up, which can make you look shorter and torso-less.  Also, don’t wear your convertible tights over your feet—keep them rolled up and “footless.”  Wearing convertible tights over your leo and tucked into shoes can make you look like you are wearing waders. 

--Try not to match the color of your leotard to the color of your tights (however, all black is always acceptable).  Pale pink leotards with pink tights looks young, and all-gray starts to look like you are trying to be monochromatic.

--Only tuck convertible tights into flat ballet shoes if they are the same color as the shoes.  Black tights tucked into pink shoes look a little funny, and the combination makes legs look short.

--When choosing a leotard, simple camisole and ¾ sleeve options are effortlessly stylish.  Tank, short sleeve, and long sleeve leos take a little more work to elevate because young students are often required to wear them as a uniform.  Any leo with a v-neck or v-back, a pinch at the neckline, or lace or mesh detail is usually a grown-up and stylish choice.

--If you are wearing a skirt or shorts, don’t match the color of your skirt or shorts with the color of your leotard.  It brings to mind dresses and unitards, both of which are not big in grown-up ballet fashion.  However, it is super spiffy to pair things in the same color family, like a light blue leotard with a royal blue skirt.  Contrasting colors look good too, but avoid clashy combos like a red leo and orange skirt.  Some people say that light pink chiffon skirts are babyish, but I disagree if they are styled right.  Don’t pair a pink skirt with a pink leo, but it can look really nice with colors like navy blue.

--If you are apple shaped (wider in the tummy), wear higher-waisted shorts and pull your skirt up to your natural waist.  This creates a more defined waistiline.  If you have an hourglass figure (narrowest at the waist), wear low-rise shorts and tie your skirts around your lower jeans-waist.  This will make your hips appear narrower and your torso more streamlined.  If you are pear shaped, any option will work for you.

--If you want a little more coverage on top, add a thin ¾ or long sleeve solid-colored top.  Make sure the sleeves are tight enough that they don’t hang away from your arms.  Avoid wearing a tank or short-sleeved top over a longer sleeved leotard; it looks kind of funny.

--As far as legwarmers go, choose warmers that are in the same shade range or darker than your tights.  Light pink tights can take warmers of any color, but black tights look best with black, dark gray, or other deep-colored warmers.  White or pale pink warmers with black tights looks 80s aerobics again.  Avoid warmers that are too matchy or too clashy with any other piece you are wearing.

--When styling your hair, stick to hair accessories like flowers, clips, and simple bows in colors that complement your dancewear.  Avoid super poofy bows, scrunchies, and cheap-looking plastic “kid” accessories.  Use “invisible” or neutral colored hair nets to make neat buns.  Crocheted bun covers and snoods in colors other than black lose their cuteness after age 11 or so.

More About Me!

Happy New Year, everyone!  I've been providing advice on this blog for over two years now, and it's probably time I gave you a bit more information about myself.  Here are the answers to a few questions I commonly hear, as well as some random fun facts.

Where do you live?

I live in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  I have lived here since 2004.

What is your day job?

I work for a technology company that specializes in engineering.  I work mostly on documentation (like manuals) related to flight simulators.  It's an exciting environment, and I get to use some of the skills I gained while getting my Bachelor's degree in Communication and Journalism. 

How long have you been dancing?

I've danced on and off my whole life.  I took my first ballet class at age 2.  I moved a lot as a kid, so I was rarely at the same studio (or taking the same style) more than a couple of years in a row.  After my family moved to Albuquerque, I started regularly taking  jazz and ballet technique.  I became very serious about my ballet training in 2012, and I've been with the academy and company at Ballet Repertory Theater (BRT) of New Mexico since then.

How do you know so much about dancewear?

I have a ton of personal experience!  I have a huge dance wardrobe (it's a guilty pleasure).  I love trying new things, and I'm always curious about whether a new product will meet my needs better than an older product.  I also used to work at a dancewear store, so that gave me exposure to a lot of products that I don't use in my daily dance life.

What pointe shoes do you wear?

At the moment, Grishko 2007 Pro in size 4 3X.  I also regularly swap between the Grishko DreamPointe and original Grishko 2007. 

Who takes your photos? 

Usually my mom (K Cupp).  Sometimes Vizions Photography by Genovieve Alexis, and sometimes BRT's photographers Seasons Photography and Jeff Giese.

Do you watch So You Think You Can Dance?  Who is your favorite choreographer?

I do, though sometimes the show is on while I am at class or rehearsal and I miss most of the episodes.  I watched the show religiously between 2005 and 2012, and I love Mia Michaels.  I sort of wish the show would return to the original format with Nigel, Mary Murphy, and a choreographer guest judge on the panel. 

What's your proudest dance moment/best dance story?

In summer 2015 I was selected to perform in a special production of Ballet Repertory Theater at Diner en Blanc Albuquerque.  (Diner en Blanc is a worldwide fantasy picnic event where people dressed all in white gather in cities across the globe at secret locations to engage in fine dining picnics and enjoy high class entertainment.  Find out  more at dinerenblanc.info.)  The event was secret, so for the whole month of rehearsals, I had no clue what I was rehearsing for.  Eventually the company started rehearsing at the venue, which was outside!  The "stage" was concrete!  To make matters worse, it rained heavily during the outdoor rehearsals, and I completely ruined a few pairs of pointe shoes.  The performance turned out to be spectacular (the company was on the news), and I have memories to last a lifetime!

What's your favorite color?

Almost everything I own is gray or a pastel cool color like blue or teal.  I think cool colors look best on me.

How many classes a week do you take?  Do you cross train?

I usually take 4 or 5 technique classes per week.  Depending on the season, I also take 1 pointe class, 1 partnering class, and 1 modern class.  I also rehearse 2-6 hours a week, depending on the season.  I do cross train, but my schedule varies.  I try to jog or do cardio once or twice a week for at least 20 minutes, and I like to follow it up with 20 minutes of weights or ab work.  I also do planks, push-ups, sit-ups, and stretches at home on a (pretty much) daily basis.  I adore my foam roller and balance board, and I work them into my routine as well.

What's your favorite brand of dancewear?

That's tough.  I like different brands for different things.  Overall, I think I like Grishko and Bloch best.  I also like Yumiko for leos and Gaynor Minden for tights and warm-ups.

What about street clothes?

Ann Taylor Loft (especially Lou&Grey) is my favorite; my entire professional wardrobe comes from there, as well as some of my casual clothes.  I also like Hollister a lot (the sizing works well for my long thin limbs and torso).

What do you like to eat?

I have pretty severe hypoglycemia and some digestive issues, so I follow a vegan diet (I'm not super strict about ingredients in prepared foods like soups or cereals, but I avoid all dairy products, meats, and hard-to-digest things like broccoli and processed whole wheat products).  I try to eat mostly foods that provide sustained energy like complex carbs and proteins.  I like to have a granola bar or oatmeal with a banana for breakfast on weekdays, and usually a salad or sandwich with veggies and hommus for lunch.  I have multiple snacks per day; usually more  granola bars, fruit, or snacks I order from Nature Box.  I'm also a big juice drinker, and I sometimes add chia seeds for an added boost.   I usually have dinner when I get home from the studio.  I'm always sweaty and tired and in the mood for something light and easy to make, but delicious.  I like miso soup with rice noodles a lot.  It's most important for me to eat something that 's going to make me feel good, both in the moment and in the long run.  I do treat myself sometimes, and on weekends I usually eat with my parents.  Then I'll have things like french fries and sweets.  If I stick to healthy options during the week, it's a good treat to indulge a bit on weekends.

Tea or coffee?

Usually tea.  I like coffee, and I'll have it sometimes, but I don't have a coffee maker at my house.  I have tea more often.

What are some of your interests besides ballet?

I love writing (you already know that).  I enjoy drawing as well, and I usually spend about an hour a day working on visual art (see some of my drawings on Instagram).  I also love alternative-rock music, crime dramas, Marvel movies (Iron Man is my favorite) and everything related to Iceland ( I was born there).