Ballet/jazz moms: any suggestions?

[bubbaray]

I need to purchase some jazz shoes for DD#1, as well as ballet slippers for both DD#1 and DD#2. Previously, I have purchased from our local dance store. I was thinking of buying online for these. Thoughts?

Both girls seem to fit Bloch ballet slippers well (and currently wear Bloch Dansoft), so I am leaning towards the Bloch SuperJazz shoes for DD#1. Anyone know how they fit -- big, small, similar to the Bloch Dansoft???

Also, I need to find some cute dance bags. I'd LOVE to find a backpack for DD#2. I'd also love to find something bigger for DD#1 to use -- she'll be doing ballet and jazz back-to-back on Saturday mornings this fall and will need to be able to change on her own.

Any suggestions?? TIA

[SnuggleBuggles]

The Bloch Split Sole was what I prefer to buy for myself when I take jazz class. (I've taken it off an on since I have grown up :)). The ones you mentioned are good too- I favor a split sole.
http://www.allaboutdance.com/Bloch-Jazzsoft-Split-Sole-Jazz-Shoe-for-Girls-S0405G?sc=2&category=835

I found they ran true to size but I can't help you with comparisons.

Can't help on the bag. Dd1 is old enough that maybe she can go to a b&m store or look through an online catalog to pick one out that she likes maybe? These simple ones always worked for me:
http://www.allaboutdance.com/Leos-I-Heart-Dance-Sling-Bag-LE184?sc=2&category=126

Beth

[bubbaray]

OK, obviously I need all the help I can get -- *I* do NOT dance (at least not without many beverages in me).

DD#1 will be taking ballet and immediately after, jazz. I will not be there to help. The studio recommends & sells a Capezio jazz shoe (possibly split sole, I'm not sure) with laces. However, I am NOT going to be there (can I stress this enough -- it is the main reason I put her in 2 classes, so I can drop her off and go to the gym or something, as opposed to spending the better part of my day ferrying children back and forth to/from the dance studio). She does not do laces well currently. I think she can figure it out, but she will be STRESSED about this and I want dance to be something that helps her confidence (she's introverted, but comes alive on stage).

Other than the laces, is this a similar type of jazz shoes Beth? http://www.discountdance.com/frame_set.php3?mf=http://www.discountdance.com/dancewear/gifts-and-accessories/bags/page1


And, is the allaboutdance site better than discountdance?? I don't frankly care where I order from, but the jazz shoes online are about half what I will be paying locally, so I'm motivated to make it work, LOL.

I'm good to go with the ballet slippers. I'm just going to order the next size up from what currently works. I'm considering passing DD#1's old ones down to DD#2, who seems to go through 2 pairs a season.

[bubbaray]

Oh, and, yeah, we've looked locally for bags for DD#1, nada. I can't really find anything online I'm in love with for her age either. They all look too big for her.

I might just re-purpose her LLB Jr Original pack. Its big enough. Not organized for ballet, but maybe I can figure something out with other mesh bags or something. Packing cubes??

[elektra]

What about this bag?


I love discount dance, but allaboutdance looks identical!
I have way more leotards, tights and legwarmers than someone like me should. ;)

http://www.discountdance.com/frame_set.php3?mf=/search.php

[bubbaray]

elektra, that linky no worky for me. Can you repost or email me? Thanks.

Is it the pink capezio kids duffle? It is in my cart there, but I'm conflicted.

[SnuggleBuggles]

Repurposing a bag is what I know I did eventually. No real merit in a dance bag if you have something that her stuff fits in already! :)

I love Discount Dance- no problem there. I just couldn't find that specific pair on there in kids' sizes but I might have just missed them. I think the Super Jazz ones would be great then since you won't have to worry about laces.

FYI- split soles just allow for more maneuverability.


Beth

[AnnieW625]

I buy DD1 these dance shoes and the bloch tights at Discount Dance as it's right by my work. I also got her ballet bag there. No help with the jazz shoes though
Capezio Daisy Ballet Shoes (dd's foot is wide and the medium works for her): http://www.zappos.com/capezio-kids-daisy-205t-c-toddler-youth-black-leather

This bag is kind of cute, Horizon Pointe Shoe Bag.

eta: removed links as they aren't working

[elektra]

Sorry about the link.

Here is the discription on discount dance. It's black with a pink bow. Looks a little smaller and for littler girls.

Leo's® Velour “dance” Bag
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E168 - Leo's® black velour roll bag has checkered bow ribbon accent with Dance embroidered on the front. Includes removable adjustable 22" strap.

[MissyAg94]

There are some cute Stephen Joseph backpacks that have dance themes but aren't exclusively for dance.

[SM23Mama21]

It's been a few years since I taught, but we always preferred the no lace shoes. They are more comfortable and have a cleaner look. And definitely get split sole!!