Front Row, from left: Cordelia Low, Chloe Teo, Cindy Tan, Helen Su, and Sheila Sim
Ballerina dreams came true for some guests, such as realtor Chloe Teo, who enthused, “This ballet session was EVERYTHING…so grateful because I’m living the dream I used to only imagine.” Held at BalletBody to commemorate the launch of SOVA x Sonata Dancewear Balletcore scrunchies, guests learnt – or relearnt – the basics of ballet. Instructor Samantha Low guided them through the fundamental moves, before challenging them to perform a choreographed routine. Samantha Cheok, founder of Savoir Wellness Club, said, “It’s always a joy to be able to dance.”
Ballet Recollections
Likewise, Cheeky co-founder Helen Su felt that “the movements are so beautiful and elegant, and in return it makes you feel so beautiful and so elegant.” As a child she wanted to be a ballerina, hence she became a barre teacher for more than a decade. As an adult, she also dabbled in some ballet classes.
Digital creator Cindy Tan also shared that it was her first studio class in a decade. Previously, she had spent two “beautiful years in adult ballet”. In between her crazy flight schedules, she’d make time to go to the dance studio. As her priorities shifted to become a mum to Chriselle, she paused ballet classes until now. She said, “Today, I return, not to chase who I was, but to reconnect with her. One plié at a time.”
Guests accessorised with three brand new mulberry silk scrunchies perfect for the aspiring ballerina, and even as an everyday aesthetic. SOVA was created during Singapore’s Circuit Breaker to revolutionise the idea of beauty sleep with mulberry silk. The highest quality silk available for purchase, mulberry silk avoids hair creases and prevents hair breakage. Additionally, improve the quality of your sleep with pyjamas, pillows and eye masks.
SOVA x Sonata Dancewear Balletcore collection
Developed with leading dancewear brand Sonata Dancewear, SOVA’s latest balletcore collection features three designs, each in three colourways and named after famous ballet characters. The elegant yet fun designs are perfect for ballet class and beyond.
For instance, the Odette ($20) oversized scrunchie with tiny ribbons that resembles a modern take on a tiara. Next, Giselle ($18) is a medium-sized scrunchie with an oversized bow, the perfect accent on the ballet bun. Otherwise it could add a touch of girliness and fun to any ponytail or hairstyle, with the bow facing up or down. Finally, the Clara ($16) is also a medium-sized scrunchie with a dainty long ribbon that drapes prettily along the nape of the neck. These scrunchies are an in-store exclusive at Sonata Dancewear.
Limited Pop-Up at Sonata Dancewear: Customisable Ballet Charms for Scrunchies
From 20 February to 20 March, SOVA will have a pop up at Sonata Dancewear’s store at Funan to customise your SOVA scrunchie with ballet-themed charms.
Of course, the balletcore look was not complete without dancewear, which Sonata Dancewear thoughtfully curated. Sonata’s staff also assisted in helping the aspiring ballerinas choose coordinating outfits. These consisted of a leotard, skirt, leg warmers, tights and shoes.
Sonata Dancewear
Slide 5: Wanting Wang in white
Local brand Sonata Dancewear is dedicated to helping dancers improve their skills through its thoughtful design and expertise for tiny tots, performing artistes and the adult beginner. Their products are comfortable, durable, elegant and safe. Beginning as a family business, Sonata Dancewear is now one of the leading retailers of international brands. Additionally, their Atelier also designs and produces custom uniforms, costumes, and in-house labels. These pieces are crafted with the highest artistry, utmost purpose and care, combining beauty and function.
Some options the guests chose included the Sora leotard ($79), with high-neck halter, supportive power mesh front, and fully lined in blush and illusion. Another option is the Vivienne Leotard ($89), with a corset-type tank, or a 3/4 sleeve ($58), more covered option. The Sonata staff also gave the guests styling tips for wearing these as everyday fashion. For example, these can be styled with jeans, or oversized sweaters, and tulle skirts for the quintessential balletcore aesthetic.
Ballet for Adults
Slide 1, right: Sydney Ho
While many might consider ballet a pursuit best started as children – and how adorable and wonderful to see them grow – there are myriad benefits to pursuing ballet even as a fairly inflexible adult.
To begin with, ballet helps improve posture and strength in core, back and smaller muscle groups – less back and neck pain! Other benefits include improving your flexibility and mobility over time, as with your balance and coordination. Mentally, it clears the mind, reducing anxiety, while enhancing cognitive function and memory. You’ll also feel a sense of achievement from learning a new skill, and can celebrate small wins through the process.
BalletBody
BalletBody‘s classes are designed for the beginner, and adults-only — no need to be intimidated by the flexible 10 year old on pointe. Fine-tune or learn ballet fundamentals with Balletbody Basics, or get a full body Stretch or condition yourself like a ballet dancer. Even pregnant and postnatal mamas can get a great workout as well. Some of the amenities at the studio at Serangoon Road include changing rooms, showers, toilets, lockers, towels, soaps and hairdryers. Start with a 14-day trial ($75 to $85) and begin your journey into the world of ballet fitness, with four classes every day, or opt for private classes.
BalletBody Reviews
Across the reviews online, most describe the instructors – including Samantha Low, who led the session for the guests – are welcoming, patient and friendly. The Basics classes are also considered accessible, even for those without dance experience, and the instructors will help correct postures and ensure proper alignment.
One such review reads, “The instructor, Ms Chua, was really friendly and nice! The class was challenging (good thing!) for a true first timer in adult ballet but she made it easy to follow through with her pleasant voice and clear instructions. This class focuses on deep stretches and fundamentals of ballet. The location is near MRT and the studio is clean, spacious enough for a small class.” Angelina also enjoyed the class. She said it made her “wanna learn ballet.” Furthermore, BalletBody’s classes are also available via ClassPass.
Sponsors
Luxe Catering
Kombucha Works
Images courtesy of Kombucha Works.
Guests also enjoyed the refreshing kombucha from Kombucha Works, namely the Lemongrass Pandan and Rosella kombucha ($8 each). Both support healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health, as well as boosting immunity. In particular, the lemongrass pandan kombucha also helps reduce water retention and bloating, while easing constipation and promoting a healthy gut. Using lemongrass, pandan leaves, along with fermented teas and probiotics, the taste is light, citrusy with a subtle, sweet pandan aroma.
Additionally, the Rosella kombucha is tart and tangy, with fruity undertones, made with rosella flowers (hibiscus), fermented tea and natural probiotics. Other new flavours include Lion’s Mane ($8), which helps brain health and reduces stress and anxiety, and Golden Prosperity Kombucha ($8.18) for Chinese New Year. The latter imbues mandarin orange, ginger, turmeric, a pinch of black pepper to activate the turmeric, as well as live kombucha culture and probiotics.
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