By Ashvinderjeet Kaur
If you’ve scrolled through Instagram or TikTok lately, you’ve probably noticed a wave of soft pinks, delicate tulle skirts, and wrap cardigans taking over. That, my friend, is the balletcore trend—the aesthetic that’s pirouetted its way into our lives, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. It’s one of those trends that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new, like a childhood daydream that’s finally come to life.
Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t entirely sold when I first came across this trend. But the more I saw it, the more I understood why everyone was so enchanted. It isn’t just a style; it’s a mood, a vibe, and, dare I say, a tiny rebellion against the chaos of modern life.
What Exactly Is Balletcore?
Before we go any further, let’s break it down. This trend is an aesthetic inspired by the world of ballet. It blends elements of dancewear with an air of effortless elegance. Think leotards, soft satin slippers, floaty skirts, and dainty accessories—all with a minimalist, feminine twist.
But it’s not just about the clothing; it’s the whole ethos. It captures a sense of poise, grace, and romance. It’s about embracing the quiet beauty in life—a stark contrast to the loud, edgy trends we’ve seen dominating fashion in recent years.
It is also surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re channelling the full ballerina look or just dabbling with a wrap cardigan over jeans, it works. It’s adaptable, making it easy to dip a toe (or pointe shoe) into. It resonates deeply because of its softness and nostalgic charm, offering an escape that invites us to slow down and find beauty in simplicity.
In an article by Dance Magazine, dancers shared their mixed feelings about the trend. While it brings ballet greater cultural visibility and allows non-dancers to connect with the art form, many feel it oversimplifies the artistry, reducing it to pastel colours, tulle, and ribbons. Dancers like Houston Ballet’s Harper Watters and Joffrey Ballet’s Jeraldine Mendoza acknowledge both the admiration and the frustration with its stereotypical portrayal of their craft.
Balletcore’s Deep Roots In Fashion
Fashion and ballet have been entwined for centuries, with the art of dance inspiring everything from the silhouette of dresses to footwear design. Iconic ballet-inspired pieces, like bodysuits, tulle skirts, and ballet flats, have proven timeless while also feeling entirely modern.
Designers like Simone Rocha, Molly Goddard, and Giambattista Valli have embraced the aesthetic, offering dreamy, tutu-like creations on the runway. Even Zara recently collaborated with the New York City Ballet to bring this trend to everyday wardrobes.
Interestingly, ballet’s influence on fashion dates back to the 1830s, with ballerinas like Marie Taglioni inspiring fabrics, corsets, and even candy.
Over time, elements of ballet wear—like the tutu and ballet slippers—evolved into staples of high fashion. The modern ballet flat, for instance, was popularised in the 1940s when designer Claire McCardell paired Capezio ballet slippers with her ready-to-wear collections. Fast forward to today, this trend thrives as a softer, more romantic answer to the body-hugging trends of post-pandemic fashion.
How To Incorporate The Trend Into Everyday Life
The best part about this trend is that you don’t have to go all out to embrace it. I’d argue that the charm of the aesthetic lies in its subtlety. Here are a few simple ways to bring a touch of balletcore into your wardrobe:
- Wrap Cardigans: These are a great staple and perfect for layering. Pair one with a slip dress or even jeans for an effortlessly chic look.
- Tulle or Satin Skirts: Channel your inner ballerina with a floaty skirt. Balance it with a fitted top for a modern vibe.
- Soft Colour Palette: Think blush pink, cream, and muted pastels. Even swapping out your usual black bag for a beige or pink one can make a difference.
- Ballet Flats: This shoe style is making a major comeback, and for good reason. They’re cute, comfortable, and go with almost everything.
- Delicate Accessories: Pearls, ribbons, and dainty jewellery add the perfect finishing touch.
Why Balletcore Is Here To Stay
Trends come and go, but this one feels different. It’s not just about the clothes—it’s about a mindset. In a way, it’s the antidote to fast-paced living. It encourages us to move a little slower, find joy in the delicate details, and embrace our femininity in whatever feels right for us.
So, whether you’re twirling in a tulle skirt or simply adding a soft pink scarf to your outfit, know this: this isn’t just a fleeting fashion trend. It’s a celebration of beauty, grace, and the quiet power of softness—and that’s something worth holding onto.