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How to Lace Ballet Slippers

Properly tying a ballet shoe is a critical part of dancing ballet, both for appearance as well as comfort and safety. While the exact look and method for tying your ballet shoe can vary from company to company, the basics will likely remain the same. The shoe's ribbons must look presentable on stage, provide proper support to the foot and ankle, and must remain secure while dancing. A dance shoe coming untied while dancing can lead to a fall or injury.

Instructions

    • 1

      Slip the shoe onto your foot and pull out the ribbons on either side.

    • 2

      Cross both ribbons in front of your ankle to form an "X."

    • 3

      Cross the ribbons behind your ankle to form another "X."

    • 4

      Wrap the laces around the front again, this time forming a smaller "X" or even a line above the first, front crossing of the laces. Pull the ends of the laces to the outside of your ankle and tie the ends in a knot.

    • 5

      Tuck the loose ends of the knot under the ribbon wrapped around your ankle so the loose ends are not visible.

Ballet

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