Ballet-Core as an Ex-Ballerina

Ava Edwards 

Mass Media & Fashion Industry 

Blog Post #2 

Ballerina Core as an EX-Ballerina 

Growing up as a ballerina there was an emphasis on encapsulating the “perfect” effortless look that you would stereotypically think of. Hair pulled back in a neat clean bun, a light colored pink or sometimes black leotard, a small wrap skirt, and your tights better not be ripped. As a ballerina, you also had to know when your ballet slippers were past their prime, as it was time to get a new pair so as to not mess up this look. This was my norm as a child. Never did I think that in my 20s, after not dancing for the past three years, that I would be reverting back to this ballerina core. This is heavily due to fast fashion and the fascination by our societies with “cores.” 

Ballerina Core in the modern fashion world is heavily influenced by the stereotypical ballet look. Designers play into this child-like fantasy in their collections to portray femininity. Miu Miu has paved the way for many designers to hop on this trend. From their pale color pallets to their viral ballet slippers, the ballet core has taken over our social media and in turn our stores. In turn, many mid-range fast fashion brand collections stick out to me in particular because of  how they have played on and expanded this “core” or “trend” in astronomical ways. From a variety of shrugs which is traditionally used in ballet for dancers to warm up, hair ribbons, ballet slipper style shoes, dresses and skirts that resemble classic ballet uniforms. While I love the celebration of ballet core, I also have a hard time allowing myself to buy into it. Because for me, there is so much history and memories that are embodied into this core. And many brands do not understand the history behind the pieces they are making. 

Ballet core is defined by sweetheart necklines, soft color palettes, silky and lacey textures, and of course ribbons. Their collections are supposed to be reminiscent of being a ballet dancer in the studio or even on stage. However, this reality is a little outdated. Many professional ballet dancers today do not typically wear this attire. Many ballet dancers in professional companies wear more laid back attire, still your classic leotards and ballet shoes, but many dancers opt for a loose pant and a messy bun which is counterintuitive to what we deem as “ballet core.” Many dancers only resemble this core as very young children in ballet class or on stage. While this is still a nostalgic feeling, there is a disconnect between the ballet core and the reality of ballet dancers. 

At the end of the day, as an ex-ballerina I will forever have a special place in my heart for the ballet core as it reminds me of my entire childhood. Up until I was 18 years old I was a serious dancer. But I do have criticism around the trend as the disconnect between what makes a dancer a dancer and simply the clothes they wear is missing.