Balletcore is the trend of your younger self's dreams. It's your dress-up bin come to life. For almost 20 years, I danced ballet (pretty close to) every day, so this trend is definitely one that I'm loving—painfully tight hair buns, pink tights with irreversible runs, and cotton ball–lined pointe shoes not included.
The basis of this aesthetic is a mix of soft, romantic silhouettes, pastel tones, and airy materials. British brands like Erdem, Simone Rocha, and Molly Goddard are pros at bringing these dreamy, ruffle-adorned looks to the runway. And this year, it expanded across many brands, including Miu Miu, Giambattista Valli, MM6 Maison Margiela, and Sandy Liang, with the Miu Miu ballet flats becoming the hero piece for the trend.
When incorporating this fantastical aesthetic into your everyday wardrobe, think elegant, romantic, and not so literal. Trends like leg warmers, Mary Janes, voluminous pieces, baby-pink lingerie, plush cashmere, and slip dresses all fit the bill.
To get you started, I've shopped out my top picks for nailing balletcore below.
This pale-pink corset has charming details.
I can't get enough of these platform pink PVC Mary Janes.
Crushed satin with an iridescent finish, chef's kiss.
Athleisure pieces fit literally into balletcore, especially in baby pink like this paneled bodysuit.
Pink leg warmers are spot-on for this aesthetic.
This ribbed pink cardigan feels like a barre warm-up piece.
It's the scrunched handle for me.
Silk and puff sleeves make this top feel vintage.
Everyday ballet flats in none other than pale pink.
Lovely ruching and a baby-doll silhouette.
From the bow detail to the puffy sleeves, this midi dress is perfect.
These flats look almost identical to authentic ballet slippers.
A divine hair bow is an easy way to top off the ballerina look.
This blush wrap skirt is giving major ballet-class flashbacks.
The elements of this top are everything, from the puff sleeve to the wrapped bow in the back.
The matching billowy pants do not disappoint.
A tutu, but make it a top.
This dreamy dress is one of my favorite choices to get the look, especially paired with blush-colored ballet flats.
Beautiful lace blankets this structured corset top.
If you opt for minimal dressing, pop on this frilly textured bag.
Faux fur decorates this ivory cropped cardigan.
An easy, flowy frock for a minimal version of the aesthetic.
Style this luxe, pretty knit with a monochromatic satin skirt and Mary Janes.
The jewel button details are top of my list for why I need this cardigan.
Bring balletcore to date night with this gorgeous satin corset dress.
Add lace tights to any look for peak balletcore.
Ganni wrist warmers have been added to my must-have list.
Maximal bows guarantee this was on your childhood dream board.
Make frills functional in the form of a detailed bodysuit.
This tulle skirt will have you feeling like a prima ballerina.
Pair the above tulle skirt with this tie top if you know what's good for you.
Finish off any balletcore look with a soft satin slip skirt.
