Perhaps everyone knows ballet, a type of dance that originated from the Italian court and thrived as a coordinated dance discipline in France, Russia, America, and England. Graceful. sophisticated, romantic and elegant are the adjectives that we usually think of when it comes to ballet. Because of the aesthetic and artistic images, people have brought the spirit of ballet in the field of fashion: from costumes on stage, events to the daily outfits.
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What is Balletcore?
Balletcore is a fashion trend which was inspired by the ballet dancers’ costumes. Balletcore impresses with people by the softness of pastel colors. This style emphasizes the elegance but impact, focusing on enhancing glamorous and attractive beauty of a woman.
Balletcore is not only a fashion trend but also a vibrant artistic because of its wonderful interpretation of traditional ballet and modern fashion. For this reason, it has thrived and become a noticeable symbol of the fashion industry. By skillfully combining opposing details: sophistication and comfort, Balletcore has become a breakthrough in the field of fashion, where fashion and art can blend.
The brief history and evolution of Balletcore
Ballet dance has appeared since the 17th century. The dancers wore elegant and romantic costumes such as tutu, tights, and pointe shoes in their performances. Nonetheless, these outfits were only utilized for ballet dancers and were uncommon in daily outfits. It was not until the 20th century when fashion began to explode and make strong strides, that Balletcore appeared. In the 1930s, Chanel designed a tweed gown inspired by the Cotillion Ballet in 1932. By the 1960s, ballet flats were widely used by people and aristocrats. In 2010, British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood stirred up the Balletcore trend with her attractive designs. Since then, collections bearing the breath of Balletcore were born and developed strongly. It was firstly popular in European countries, the spread to America and is now loved by Asian fashionistas.
In the Vivienne Westwood RTW Spring 2010 Collection (left side), Vivienne Westwood designed a flowing long skirt that was distinctly Balletcore. In the same year 2010, Vivienne Westwood Red Label RTW Fall 2010 (right side) also made its mark with the appearance of ballet flats and tights.
Balletcore in fashion
Although it has been appeared for a long time, this fashion trend really exploded in 2022 when Jennie (BLACKPINK) actively wore balletcore outfits in the BORN PINK stages. The combination of a tullet mini skirt, tight tank top, with dancing shoes and high socks, making the audience think of enthusiastic ballet dancers on stage. Currently, she is known as one of the celebrities actively promoting this fashion trend.
On the other hand, the development of TikTok is one of the primary reasons that has had an incredible influence on the Balletcore fashion trend recently. If you type “Balletcore” in the search box, you can see numerous videos that introduce or instruct how to mix Balletcore outfits with different items. It is one of the most used styles besides Streetwear. In addition, this aesthetic style used to be expected to be the dominant fashion trend in 2022 and 2023.
The spirit of Balletcore in fashion is femininity, flexibility and elegance. Therefore, in order to create outfits with bold ballet colors, you should prioritize items with the following characteristics:
- Flowing and layering: this feature is often seen on dresses or sleeves, sometimes as accessories
- Bodysuit, one-piece dress, one-piece
- Outfits are pastel colors, gentle and soothing to the eyes
- The patterns on the clothes are embroidered instead of printed or appliquéd
- Doll shoes, ballet shoes
However, you can easily see that the overall outfit does not comply with Ballet standards. They have been transformed to become more flexible and clearly express individual personality. The noticeable improvement of Balletcore in this day and age is that it is more open and modern. The outfits have various versions that are suitable for Gen Z’s aesthetics such as bare backs, feminine low-cut waistbands, or large ballet outfits.
What items should we have to have a Balletcore outfit?
In order to get an accurate picture of the items that suit you best, let’s imagine yourself as a ballet dancer who is preparing to perform on stage. Then, what you think of at that time will be what you need. In this section, The Sunday Snug will recommend some great options for you to achieve the perfect Balletcore look!
Topwear
Ballet dancers usually wear bodysuits and tight tops. Therefore, it is highly recommended to wear a bodysuit, which is appropriate for the day that you would love to be minimalist but prominent. A wrap top inspired by ballet dancers’ practice outfits is also an ideal option for you. Another recommendation is lace shirts and sheer which create a gentle look.
Bottom
If you love flow and softness, prioritize layered skirts because they will bring the effect that you desire. There are 2 prominent skirts which are suitable for this style:
- Tulle skirt (tutu): is a symbol of ballet style with its flow
- Midi or maxi dress in satin or silk: brings softness and elegance
On the other hand, if you are passionate about the image of enthusiasm, discipline and strength within the soft beauty of dancers, leggings or sheer tights will be definitely for you.
Footwear
Ballet flats, which bring a classic vibe with a strong ballet imprint, are your optimal choice. Satin shoes with laces or ribbon details are also a good option.
Outerwear
Short cardigan is a suitable and safe choice, you can also wear long jackets with light materials to accentuate lightness and elegance.
Accessories
Ribbons, hair bows and pearl-style jewelry are the prominent accessories that can highlight femininity and classic as well as graceful beauty.
Some Balletcore outfit ideas
If this is the first time you have tried this fashion trend and you do not have any idea about your outfits, let check the following ideas:
- Tennis skirt, tight double-breasted sweater and thin outer jacket.
- White tennis skirt, modern fur coat, but just combine it with dancing shoes and high socks.
- A gentle, simple camisole dress combined with flat doll shoes, thin socks and a bow attached.
- Tight leggings combined with high socks and sneakers, accented with a stylized shirt
- Pink off-the-shoulder shirt, white flared skirt, white socks and white sneakers. You can also braid your hair on both sides and add a few bows to make the outfit more prominent.
The sophisticated harmony of times
Balletcore is not only a fashion trend that harmonizes classical sounds and modern beauty, but also a way to express personal identity. Through layers of flowing dresses or elegant ballet shoes, Balletcore brings a dreamy world full of sweetness, softness, but no less strength in the fashion world. Therefore, if you are looking for a style that is both gentle and artistic, Balletcore is the optimal choice to help you stand out with softness, elegance but also full of personality. Let these outfits inspire you and write your own fashion story.
