Every now and then, you might find yourself wanting to unleash the drama of your inner “Swan Lake” or “Sugar Plum Fairy,” but the last time you danced was in your second grade ballet recital. Thankfully, you don’t need to know how to plié in order to capture that essence. Balletcore is in, and with a few key pieces and some tips to follow, you’ll look ready for the stage.
SHOWING SKIN
Dance wear pieces are staples of balletcore, and they’re known to show a moderate amount of skin. While you might not have explicitly dance purposed pieces, using tight and simple crops, tights or leggings and tastefully short bottoms, you can emulate it.
PINK + WHITE
When you think of a ballerina, you might think of pink ribbon and tutus, and that’s not just because it’s a pretty color. Ballet originated in Italy and France where they used light pink tones to make the dancer’s limbs look longer and more elegant. A light pink paired with a white or even ivory looks great on any skin tone for a softly feminine look.
RIBBONS & LACE
When looking for accessories that fit into the balletcore feel try playing around with ribbons or lacey pieces. Socks with lace tops, collars with lace elements or even shirts made entirely from lace embody balletcore. Ribbons can be worn in a bunch of ways as well. Use them to tie up your hair, wrap them around your arms and kegs in lieu of jewelry or even as a way to cinch and accentuate the shape of a dress.
FITTED & FLOWING
Putting together a perfect outfit to fit the balletcore vibe involves playing with silhouettes. It’s not like maximalism where you want to go crazy. Look at “To The Max” for more of that. Mixing clothes that fit you differently can make simple pieces seem much more interesting and eye-catching.
FLATS VS. HEELS
To completely capture the balletcore look head to toe, you must get the shoes right. Flats are a perfect everyday shoe that look like a dancer’s shoe, though way comfier. It gives the vibe of a casual dancer, the pure essence of balletcore. Or for a classier vibe, you can wear a pair of heels. Smooth white or pink heels and some ribbon are perfect. Strut on the tips of your toes like the best ballerinas out there.
LEGWARMERS
These knit shin-sleeves aren’t only in those ’80s workout videos your mom watches. Ballerinas have a use for them as well. They keep the leg muscles warm and limber which helps prevent cramping and long term aches. A pastel, white, cream or black pair can also be a great addition to any outfit — a great alternative to the usual socks or stockings.
MASCULINE
While anyone can pull off this look, those who prefer to be more masculine-presenting still can. Sleek black shoes, tight black or lightly patterned pants and a loose white button-up can help you capture a princely essence. Add some simple jewelry and put minimal product in your hair to add to this classy but free look.
words_sal puma. design_isá marquez & lizzie kristal. photo_nina d’agostini.
This article was published in Distraction’s Summer 2023 print issue.
Follow our Social Media:
