Returning to Relevé

Sometimes I get frustrated with myself, and generally its because I'm doing that horrible thing I think a lot of dancers do, where I compare myself to others and always come up short. I think many of us are perfectionists, and so we get ourselves into trouble when this kind of thought process starts (me especially, as I have a history of low self esteem and eating problems, boo). (Under a break because this is LONG.)

I've been pondering some changes to my usual class attire. I'm a creature of habit, so when I started dancing again I just wore what I've always worn to class: leotard, convertible pink tights, shorts (originally knit, now spandex), and pink canvas slippers. My usual ballet gear just isn't doing it for me anymore Alas, because I am now an adult woman*, this combination is not as flattering as it might have been when I was 16.  These days, I have what I like to call a "J-Lo" thing happening (bootylicious!), and I'm pear-shaped. This is a lovely shape to have when one wants to wear cute a-line dresses (which I do).  It is, however, a difficult shape to dress when one has to wear ballet attire. Why can't I wear THIS to ballet class? (Traveling Cupcake Truck Dress, from Modcloth)   For example, I have tried several brands of tights in an effort to find a pair that doesn't have a waist band threatening to sever me in half.  No l...