Viella Dance Collection founder Nicole Crisona (Balcatta) with husband Domonic and daughters Isabella (9) and Vienna (6).
Camera IconViella Dance Collection founder Nicole Crisona (Balcatta) with husband Domonic and daughters Isabella (9) and Vienna (6). Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Balcatta mum starts dance wear label to promote body confidence

Laura PondStirling Times

A BALCATTA mum has created dance wear aimed at encouraging body confidence among girls.

Nicole Crisona’s own negative pre-teen dance experiences coupled with what she believed were unrealistic beauty expectations promoted by social media inspired her to start Viella Dance Collection.

“There’s even more body image pressure in the world of amateur dance, and as each season brings increased height, shape changes and eventually puberty, many girls give up their passion because they suddenly feel exposed or different in some way,” she said.

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“Body confidence is a huge part of feeling strong, empowered and believing in yourself and that’s what Viella Dance Collection is all about.”

The leotards and dance wear pieces are designed to give dancers support, comfort and confidence regardless of their shape, size or skill level.

Leotards have built-in bras, slightly broader shoulder straps and a wider, more supportive crotch aimed at helping girls feel less embarrassed about dancing when having their period.

There are also dance shorts and crop tops with built-in structure.

“We’ve only just launched but I have been overwhelmed by the interest from dance mums across Australia who say they share my vision for every young dancer to have the confidence, self-belief and determination to be the very best version of themselves,” Mrs Crisona said.

Driving her is the hope of promoting self-love to daughters Vienna (6) and Isabella (9), and in keeping with that philosophy has used dancers instead of models to showcase the range.

“I have 11 different girls who represent a variety of dance styles and their passion and talent make the dance wear come to life without the airbrushing and photoshopping that many of the big global brands use to sell their clothing,” she said.

Items are available online at www.vielladancecollection.com.