From Cotton Classics to Velvety Magic: NEW Velour Ballerinas in 2025!

Original cotton knit Ballerinas in Fog and Amethyst @tumblingsparrow

Back in 2017, we introduced our very first Ballerina Dresses in soft cotton knit. 

Little did I know, these dresses would become a Fall staple in our little business since - selling out every season, time after time. Over the years, we iterated on better fit and came up with different colors.  Two of the earliest—and most loved—colors were Peacock and Raspberry, introduced in 2018. Moms would tell us these dresses became the ones their little girls reached for again and again—whether for birthday parties, family photos, or just a magical tutu-Tuesday afternoon twirl.

 Peacock Ballerina below @Jodipaquinphotography 
Raspberry, Peacock, and Amethyst ballerina dress in 2018 @Das_Foto

Those original hues hold a special place in my heart, and I realize as I’m designing, I kept thinking back to the jewel tones of that season. So this season, I wanted to bring them back in spirit—but with a luxurious, holiday-ready twist.

When we first reimagined our Ballerina Dress in velour, in 2023, it felt like we’d opened a whole new chapter—plush, cozy, and perfectly festive. Velour hugs the body with warmth while catching the light in the most magical way as she twirls. Of course, that shift meant completely rethinking the design:

• Fuller shoulder ruffles that are stitched directly onto the shoulders rather than in the shoulder seam for a balanced, picture-perfect silhouette

• A fully lined bodice in silky-soft bamboo viscose for comfort

• Two tiers of tulle for extra volume and movement (I had always wanted to go for the fuller tutu feel, and I finally achieved in this luxe makeover :))

• Gently fitted long sleeves to keep her warm all season long
  

  

  Every change was tested and refined (sometimes with my own daughter Caris spinning around the design studio in sample after sample) until the fit, feel, and flow were just right.
  This year, we’re bringing back some of your favorite velour colors: Dusty Lilac, Dusty Pink (a sweet new addition we didn’t offer last year, but has been the most inquired velour ballerina color since its debut in 2023), Red Velvet, and Mistletoe.

  But the biggest surprise? A bold last-minute decision on my part: Festive Fuchsia.
  
  Originally, I planned to bring back Sage—a safe, classic choice. But as we were ordering for production, I kept thinking about a bright, hot pink (way brighter than the original Raspberry color), and how that might feel for the holidays. So I took a risk, and “Festive Fuchsia” was born—a vibrant jewel tone that practically sings in velour (and my daughter absolutely LOVES it). 

  I also opted for Sapphire, which carries the same richness as Peacock but with an even deeper, more elegant glow. These vibrant jewel tones are SO gorgeous in person and ready to shine at every holiday gathering!

  For me, this season is more than just a color refresh—it’s a nod to where we started. Bringing back the energy of those early favorites in a completely new way feels a little like seeing an old friend dressed up for the holidays.
  

  Whether you choose a familiar favorite or one of our new, bolder shades, I hope these dresses will be part of your family’s celebrations and memories for years to come. Thank you for allowing EleStory to be a part of your core memories. It is truly an honor. 
  
  Our Velour Ballerina Collection goes LIVE on Thursday, 8/14/25. Join our waitlist to get early access shopping HERE. 

   

   

  xo,
  Judy