Ballerina-Core

Written and Styled by Cassidy Leighty

Photos by Britney Spangenberg of Mara Anselm, Emily Willis, Dee Douglas, and Daisy McDonald

If you grew up watching “The Nutcracker” around Christmastime every year, spent your afternoons binging “Bunheads,” or spent your youth studying ballet like me, the recent emergence of ballerina-core fashion might have piqued your interest. 

Similar to the art form itself, the typical ballet color palette is classic and timeless. By sticking mostly to neutrals and muted pinks, the effortlessly graceful look of a ballerina can be achieved. Ballerina-core outfits tend to focus on comfort while remaining feminine and dainty at the same time. The look is simple to achieve if you have a few of the basic ballet-inspired pieces. 

A pair of pink or black tights will give your outfit the authentic ballet look. Take it one step further by layering a pair of thick leg warmers –– leg warmers scrunched around your calf add an adorable flare to a casual outfit while long leg warmers lengthen your lines and add an elegant touch. 

If you don’t have any leotards, a body suit will give an almost identical vibe. Layer a wrap sweater or a shrug cardigan on top, and you’ll look like a pro ballerina on your way to class. Any skirt of choice will do, or opt for a pair of baggy pants if you’re going for a ballerina off-duty look. 

For shoes, moon boots or UGGs are reminiscent of ballet warm up booties. Or you could go for the obvious choice: any shoe with laces that wrap around your ankles. And for jewelry, try to stick to delicate basics, which will add to the femininity, but not take away from the simplicity of ballerina core. 

Once you have perfected your outfit, it’s time for ballet-inspired hair and makeup. A ballet bun is essential, of course. Whether you prefer a slicked back bun or a messy top knot, either one will complement your ballerina-core outfit. A clean makeup look screams ballet-core. Dewy skin, feathery brows, glossy lips, and don’t be afraid to go a little heavy with the pink blush.

Ballerina-core is a spring trend that will have you looking “on pointe” and keep everyone around you on their toes. It is the perfect way to spruce up your personal style just in time for summer!