Shop: Ellman’s Dancewear
Location: Richmond, VA
Fun fact: The store carries over 7,000 pairs of in stock dance shoes for dancers of all ages!
Wondering what other dancers are shopping for as we all make our way back to normal after a year of at-home dance classes and virtual performances? We sat down with Rosemary Liberto, owner of Richmond's landmark dancewear store, Ellman's Dancewear, and asked her to share with us a bit about her store as well as some trends she's been noticing as dancers begin their journey back to the stage.
Rosemary Liberto, Owner of Ellman's Dancewear
What is your background and what led you to start your business?
I started dance at age five and earned B.F.A. in Dance/Choreography from Virginia Commonwealth University. I began work at Ellman’s in high school and purchased the business in 2016 from the previous owner. Ellman’s is 73 years old!
What do you love most about providing dancewear to your community?
[I love] working one on one with studio owners, teachers, parents, and students and creating a lasting relationship. They become like family to us.
What are some favorite brands that your store carries, and why?
We carry a large variety of brands in our store, so it is difficult to choose a favorite. Our customers enjoy the variety that we carry, and we feel that it allows for more size and fit options among manufacturers, giving all of our customers a greater selection.
Ellman's Dancewear, Richmond, Virginia
What sets your store apart from other dancewear retailers?
We have been in business for 73 years, and we now call a 6,000 square foot space our home!
Wow, that's incredible! As the largest dancewear retailer in Richmond, are there any new dancewear and/or accessory trends you’ve noticed lately?
With everyone returning to the stage after the past year, the most important necessity seems to be new tights.
What are your overall best-selling products?
Our best selling products are tights and pointe shoes.
Ellman's Dancewear, Richmond Virginia
A lot of dancers struggle to find pointe shoes that fit correctly and flatter their feet. Do you have any advice for finding the perfect pair of pointe shoes?
In order to find your perfect fit, we recommend working with your nearest retailer to have a fitting done. It is almost impossible to find a shoe that works with your foot without consulting a professional fitter who understands the different makes and models of shoes.
In your opinion, is there a “must-have” item for any dancer?
Our must have item for any dancer would be warm up gear! From hip hop to ballet, all dancers could use some type of warm up wear.
What’s one thing you want customers to know about you and/or your store?
We are just as passionate about the dance world as you are, and we hope you feel the same when you visit our store.
Contact information:
Location: 19 S Belmont Avenue, Richmond, VA 23221
Phone: (804) 358-0655
Email: ellmansinc@comcast.net
Instagram: @ellmansdancewear | Facebook
