2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Dancers
Between all the Nutcracker rehearsals and holiday parties, who has time to shop for gifts?
No worries…I’ve got you covered! I’ve rounded up nine of my favorite gifts perfect for the dancer in your life!
Heads up: This post contains affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Luckyleo Dancewear
Holiday Collection
How stunning is this Nutcracker-inspired leotard from Luckyleo Dancewear? They have an entire Nutcracker-themed line in their Holiday Shoppe, paying homage to the Party Scene, Battle Scene, Waltz of the Snowflakes, and more! Founded by former professional ballerinas (and sisters!) Chelsea Early and Heather Walker, all Luckyleo products are 100% made in the US in their Denver Workshop, including fabric design and printing. These leotards are sure to get you into the holiday spirit and ready for Nutcracker season!
Apolla Shocks
Countless dancers, instructors, and athletes swear by Apolla Shocks to get them through long days of teaching and rehearsing. Boasting shock absorption, arch support, and ankle stability, these are the holy grail of socks. They even have a handy quiz to help you find your perfect fit!
***Enter Promo code BRAINYBALLERINA5 at checkout for 5% off
Hydroflask Water Bottle
I’ve tried A LOT of water bottles, and none of them measure up to the Hydroflask. I love that the bottle keeps my water cold through hours of class and rehearsal. Plus, it doesn’t ever sweat or leak, meaning I can throw it in my dance bag without worrying about water ruining my pointe shoes. With a massive array of colors and sizes, you’re sure to find the perfect bottle for the dancer on your list!
Pointebrush Holiday Collection
Founded by Margot Hallac (an artist, designer, entrepreneur, ballerina, and mom), Pointebrush is one of my absolute favorite ballet businesses. I’m swooning over this year’s holiday collection! My personal favorite are the notebooks…perfect for journaling or writing down corrections. Of course, the entire collection is incredible. From mugs, to greeting cards, to phone cases and more, there is truly something for every dancer on your list!
Jordan Samuel Skin
Founded by former professional ballet dancer Jordan Samuel Pacitti, this line of skin care is EXACTLY what you need to soothe your skin during a long and grueling Nutcracker season. The After Show Treatment Cleanser gets off stubborn stage makeup and the Hydrate Facial Serum will save your face from cold, dry December days. Toss those makeup wipes and give the gift of hydrated, glowing skin this year.
Bloch Warm Up Bootie
These were one of my must-haves as a professional dancer. They are perfect for keeping your feet cozy before class or in a chilly theater. Slip them over your pointe shoes or wear alone…either way, your toes will be warm and happy!
Dancers & Dogs 2022 Calendar
Dancers & Dogs was founded by Kelly & Ian Kreidich, commercial photographers based in St. Louis. What started out as a whim has now turned into a huge movement including dancers from companies including American Ballet Theatre, Colorado Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Charlotte Ballet, Orlando Ballet, Saint Louis Ballet. This calendar is just what you need to keep your life organized and infuse some happiness into your day. Inventory is limited so be sure to get your hands on the calendar while you still can!
Cloud & Victory Emotional Baggage Dance Bag
You say “rose gold” and I say “take my money!” I have major 😍😍😍 for this gorgeous dance bag from Cloud & Victory, an ethical, eco-friendly dancewear brand based in Singapore founded by Tan Li Min. Six compartments (including a ventilated one for your shoes!) ensure this dance bag fits all your essentials for a long day of class and rehearsal. Plus, you can feel good supporting a small business that ensures its products are ethically made according to ILO and UN human rights standards!
The Brainy Ballerina
Intentional Career Handbook
Give the gift of career growth this holiday season with The Brainy Ballerina Intentional Career Handbook!
This 19-page handbook with 12 topics and 50+ question prompts is designed to help aspiring dancers find intention and clarity in their goals as they pursue a professional dance career. This is a must-have resource for dancers who want to feel confident and prepared as we head into another audition season.
Meet the Author
Caitlin Sloan is a Dance Educator and Career Mentor based in Madison, WI.
Caitlin received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Grand Valley State University and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Missouri.
She danced professionally for nine years with companies including Ballet Tucson and Missouri Contemporary Ballet (now Mareck Dance). Caitlin has taught at schools all over the Midwest, most notably serving as Director of The School of Missouri Contemporary Ballet and Youth Company Director for Central Indiana Dance Ensemble. She is currently on faculty at the School of Madison Ballet.
Caitlin founded The Brainy Ballerina® in 2019, a virtual resource providing support and guidance for aspiring ballet dancers. Follow @thebrainyballerina on Instagram for your daily dose of dance career guidance and inspiration.
