ballet trend

How To Style The Ballet Trend In 2017

Ballet is unquestionably the most graceful of art forms. Boasting a signature aesthetic, a ballerina’s iconic and elegant style has influenced fashion houses for decades. With ballet references seen at Valentino and Celine last season, this feminine trend is likely to transcend into the summer months. Read on to discover how to style the ballet trend in 2017…

Whether she’s on the stage or behind the scenes warming up, it’s a ballet dancer’s duty to look elegant. Taking inspiration from these graceful dancers is something the fashion world hasn’t held back from. Valentino’s recent AW16 collection could have been a scene from Swan Lake, as models flounced their way down the catwalk in tulle floor-length numbers, tutu dresses over luxe knitwear and lace-up pumps reminiscent of a pointe shoe. It’s the juxtaposition of a ballerina’s role that makes them so supernatural and majestic. Strong yet gentle, energetic yet graceful, composed yet emotive. Their ensembles iconically exude romanticism, with fluid shapes, light hues and soft fabrics always taking centre stage in their wardrobe.

ballet trend
Valentino AW16

The Ballet Pump

During the early Noughties, the ballet slipper revolutionized the flat shoe for women. Style icons around the world were spotted in these dainty, soft leather pumps decorated with a petite bow on the front. They became the ‘it’ shoe to own in your wardrobe for everyone woman, from the likes of Alexa Chung to Michelle Obama. Their minimal design complements summer dresses, and conversely feminizes boyfriend jeans, making them the perfect pair of everyday footwear. As the ballet trend arises once more, the lust over ballet pumps is rising again. The Aquazurra ballet pump in pink suede features a flattering lace-up detail and an inch block heel for a little lift. For additional class, a Tabitha Simmons black patent pair will slot into your wardrobe seamlessly.

ballet pumps in black and nude

ballet trend

The Wraparound Knit

Aimed to keep ballet dancers from feeling the chill after warming up backstage, the wrap around knit is an iconic piece in any professional ballerina’s wardrobe. Made from delicate wool such as cashmere or mohair, this simple throw-on knitwear item flatters your shape by accentuating the waist. This Tome wrap-effect ribbed sweater in pale pink is an easy addition to add a ballet inspired aesthetic to your wardrobe.

If you’re feeling daring or prefer monochromatic tones, this Philip Lim tie front sweater gives the illusion that you’ve just left the rehearsal room after a long day of dancing. A modern yet signature take on women’s knitwear, team these structured, wrap-around pieces with flared jeans in Winter and loose palazzo pants in Spring for a chic look. This wraparound detail is the perfect way to add intrigue to your casual Sunday morning knitwear.

ballet trend
Credit: Net-A-Porter

“Be like a ballet dancer – have discipline in your style.”

ballet trend

The Full Skirt

Worn to highlight a ballet dancer’s spectacular movement, a full skirt is an essential part of a ballerina’s kit. Whether she opts for tulle or silk, the fluid lines created by a full skirt exudes a graceful demeanour every ballet dancer must uphold. Off the stage, full skirts make an impactful evening wear option. Think a metallic pleated number or a tulle midi piece in a subtle shade. Team with a pair of strappy heels and a fitted vest or shirt for a classy look that feels so much more elegant than your average little black dress. As tulle is having a moment, this Mother of Pearl pink skirt with two layers is a considered, modern option. If you’re looking for an item that will endure seasons of wear, opt for this lavender Needle & Thread number.

ballet tulle skirs in nude and lilac

ballet trend

The Leotard

Sometimes, simplicity is the key to looking graceful. As ballet dancers wear leotards to rehearse in for movability, we can wear these minimal bodysuits for comfort in our daily lives. Cotton leotards make incredibly useful basics for your wardrobe. With no tucking in necessary, these bodysuit style leotards form a neat aesthetic layered underneath tailored trousers or a midi-length skirt. Opt for this Fleur Du Mal black piece or a classic ballet pink ATM number with a scooped neckline to replicate Margot Fonteyn’s signature rehearsal look.

add the liliana s to your ballet-inspired look