Holiday Gift Guide for Adult Ballet Dancers
- Hannah Jennings
- 7 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Please note: This post contains affiliate links & codes that allow me to make a small commission at no extra cost to you. (In fact, you'll probably get a discount!)
Whether you're shopping for a fellow adult ballet dancer or treating yourself (you go, girl 😌) these gift ideas are a mix of functional, stylish, and self-care items that make dance life better. Each of these products I LOVE and stand behind in terms of quality and performance. And for many of these brands, I was able to obtain discount codes to pass along to you, because I know the bunhead life ain't cheap! I hope you enjoy browsing these curated gems and, most importantly, that you have a very Merry Christmas. 🎄🥰✨
Frenchies Hair Pins
These velvet-coated hair pins are a true game-changer if you're a thick or long-haired girly. Seriously — I could NOT do a French twist until I bought these. They're strong enough to hold a ballet bun or twist for an entire class (petit and grande allegro tested) but gentle on your hair, so you don’t pull or damage strands. They're an essential part of my toolkit (because nothing ruins a combination like slipping pins #AMIRIGHT) A new set of Frenchies is my favorite stocking stuffer. 🤗
Cozy Dancer Journal
This lovely journal provides a way to track weekly goals, reflect on progress, and note those little “aha” moments in your ballet training. It includes reflection prompts and well as space to record class notes & feedback each week. With it's gorgeous ivory cloth hardcover and rose gold embossed logo, it's every bit as beautiful as it is practical.
Plus, what better time to purchase a new journal than the start of a new year? 📝
Upcycled Pointe Shoes by PointeReve
Emily is a fellow adult dancer who transforms used pointe shoes into one-of-a-kind works of art, giving them a beautiful new chapter. She also accepts custom orders to turn your pointe shoes into keepsakes! (I'm planning to send her my very first pair so she can work her magic for a shadow box display.) 🩰
Check out her upcycled pointe shoes at pointereve.etsy.com or on Instagram @shoppointereve. You can purchase directly via Etsy or with free shipping via Instagram DM.
Apolla Compression Socks & Legwarmers
Compression products are AMAZING for dancers who spend hours on their feet. The right ones will boost circulation, reduce swelling, and accelerate recovery, whether you’re coming off an intense class or just want more support throughout the day. My two favorite products are the Apolla Joule socks (perfect for pointe work) and the legwarmers, both of which have significantly reduced fatigue in my legs & ankles and provide great all-over support. I've owned both of these products for 2+ years, and have been so impressed with the quality & results. 🙌🏼
RubiaWear “Cora” Wrap
This soft and cozy wrap isn’t just pretty, it’s functional too! The Cora Wrap by RubiaWear helps your muscles get warm and stay warm, and can be worn around the waist or shoulders. I have this wrap in both cream and grey (pictured here) and I love to wear it as a lower-back warmer. I prefer it to the other brands I own because it’s not as bulky — it’s sleeker, yet very effective *cue excessive sweating* 😅
The Cora wrap is the perfect additional layer for a chilly studio on a winter day. And since RubiaWear sponsors the podcast, the code BUSYBUN10 will take 10% off your order!
“Keep On Dancing” Necklace by Rose & Clay Jewelry
Jewelry made by a fellow adult dancer, for adult dancers? Yes, please! The Keep On Dancing necklace from Rose & Clay Jewelry is a daily reminder to keep showing up, wherever you are in your journey. I personally own this piece and wear it constantly. It's lightweight, tarnish free and hypoallergenic, so I can even keep it on during class.
A special, thoughtful gift (for a friend or yourself) that speaks to the passion and dedication of dancers. Don't forget to use code AFTERCLASS for 10% off sitewide!
Jule Dancewear Meshie Tights
Jule Dancewear just gets adult dancers. Their leotards provide great bust support, and are offered in flattering cuts and quality fabrics. But my favorite Jule product has to be their Meshie tights. In addition to black, they come in a range of unique colors like ocean blue, amethyst purple and seafoam green.
Why wear boring pink tights when you can wear durable, supportive tights with a chic back seam in a fun color?
Girl, you're far too stylish for that.😌
And, since Jule is a sponsor of the podcast, you can use code AFTERCLASS15 for 15% off sitewide!
Ance Recovery Sneakers
These might just win "Product of the Year" in my book... Ance Recovery Sneakers were specifically made for dancers, and include built-in ice pack pockets, a wide toe box for natural alignment, an adjustable wrap-around strap for arch support, and (bonus!) they can even be worn as slides with little acupressure dots to massage the heels of your feet. Whether it's after class or to run errands, slipping these on feels like a hug for tired ballerina feet.
Use code BUNHEADBF40 to get 40% (YES FORTY PERCENT) off your order. If there is one gift to get yourself this Christmas, these are it. 🔥
Theragun Mini
The Theragun Mini is a small-but-mighty percussion massage tool that fits easily into your dance bag. Its deep-tissue vibrations help ease muscle tension, improve circulation, and speed up recovery. It's especially handy when you're managing soreness from pointe work or strength training. I love using it on my calves and quads! I've owned my Theragun Mini for over 3 years, and it's traveled all over with me. I love how portable it is for things like summer intensives and workshops! 🧳
Dancer Strong Platform Membership
Stop sifting through reels and TikToks made by questionably-qualified influencers, and start training for the New Year with Dancer Strong.
It’s a comprehensive online platform with on-demand strength, stretch, and mobility classes, plus live Zoom sessions each week — all created and guided by the incomparable (and highly qualified) Allie Christensen. Each workout is designed specifically for adult dancers, so the results actually show up in the studio. I’ve been using Dancer Strong for the past year, and my body has never felt better. 💪🏼
Visit dancerstrongprograms.com to start your free 7-day trial and use the code AFTERCLASS for $5 off your purchase of a course or membership!
Jeté Lip Oil by Merit
If you’re looking for the perfect natural lip for ballet class, this is my personal favorite. 💋 Aptly named Jeté, this lip oil is hydrating but not sticky, elegant but not overkill. Also, how chic is this packaging? And with a subtle, pinky-peachy finish, it’s like it was made for ballet dancers. (With a name like jeté, maybe it was?) 😌
Available at Sephora, both in-store and online!
🎁 To Wrap It All Up...
This Christmas, I hope you get to celebrate your love for ballet with gifts that support your well-being and make you feel special — whether it’s a new tool that helps you recover, dance wear that keeps you cozy, or a piece of jewelry that makes you feel extra beautiful. As always, I wish you very happy dancing and lots of love this holiday season. 🥰
xx, Hannah