How to Look Ballerina Chic

Note: This article was originally published on HerCampus.com

Ballerinas are, in essence, some of the most, if not the most, elegant people on the planet. They can turn, leap and jump in ways that many would find superhuman. Take it from me, someone who practiced ballet seriously for 10 years of her life. Onstage, ballerinas develop a sense of refinement in their movements and mannerisms that permeates their lifestyle even through their fashion choices. If you ever wanted to mimic the timeless simplicity of a ballet dancer, follow these styling ideas on what to include in your ensemble to achieve that classy ballerina look.

1. Black, muted colors

The wardrobe of a ballet dancer includes a surplus of black leotards (with some pretty colored leotards as well). Black is considered to be a very flattering and slimming shade, and for those ballet dancers who aren’t at a school which color-coordinates leotards with skill level, black is everywhere. Take a hint from ballerinas and include a little more black than usual in your outfit to boost your class.

2. Dainty jewelry

Ballet dancers can’t wear a lot of jewelry. One wrong turn, and next thing you know, your necklace is wrapped around your neck or your eyeball gets severely poked. While dancers can’t wear long necklaces in class, this elegant tassel necklace from Charming Charlie exudes the classiness you would find in the rehearsal room.

3. Tulle skirt

It’s obvious to see where this fashion trend came from (hint: tutus) and ballerinas can claim full credit. Find a fluffy tulle skirt that doesn’t overwhelm your frame, like this mid-length white tulle skirt that looks straight out of a professional production of Giselle.

4. Ballerina flats

Ballet flats provide a chic, simple and versatile shoe style. If you want to find out how to dress up your ballet flats, draw some inspiration from this guide on how to look instantly polished.

5. Lace-up flats

Lace-up ballet flats look more like actual pointe shoes than regular ballet flats, and they give you the illusion that you could waltz on stage at any moment and instantly perform a well-known ballet variation. To get the look, check out this pair of lace-up flats from Steve Madden.

6. Big tote bag

It is no surprise that with long rehearsal days and rigorous class schedules come the need to carry a small village of supplies, clothing and food with you at all times. To avoid looking like you are carrying a bulky mess, spend your money on a chic and simple tote.

7. Bodysuit

Leotards are a staple piece of ballet. They are required to be tight-fitting and body-conforming to show the teacher proper lines and alignment so that correct placement is achieved. Outside of the classroom, you can wear a bodysuit (a.k.a. leotard) to avoid having to tuck a shirt into a skirt or pair of shorts while creating a smoother, cleaner look.

8. Bun updo

Buns are also a staple style of ballet. How else does one accomplish 32 consecutive fouettes without drowning in a pile of hair? By putting your hair up in a neat bun, you get to show off your neck and create long, poised lines that instantly class up any outfit.

9. Loose, flowy clothing

When warming up, ballet dancers utilize a lot of loose and flowing apparel that help keep the body warm while providing freedom of movement. For a pretty, flowy look check out this casual cross-body dress from Allison Avery.

10. Ballet pink

Aside from black, ballerinas also incorporate a lot of pink into their wardrobe. Tights and shoes make up a majority of the pink in a dancer’s daily life, unless you are playing the part of Aurora in Sleeping Beauty! When choosing a color of pink for a top or dress, opt for a lighter blush tone to create a soft and charming look.

You don’t need to know the full pas de deux of the Nutcracker to enjoy the fashionable inspiration that ballet dancers have to offer. You don’t even need to have ballet experience in your life to rock a cool lace up ballet flat. (Just don’t put on actual pointe shoes, because you do need experience for that.) Also, remember to support your local performing arts troupe and see ballet in the natural, eloquent environment from where we draw our inspiration!