How to Wear the Balletcore Fashion Trend for 2023

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When Step Up hit theaters in 2006, I was mesmerized by Jenna Dewan from her first scene. Aside from her clear talent and flawless choreography, it was her style that claimed my undivided attention — "balletcore," as the fashion trend is now called. True, I personally may not have been a professional dancer, but her wardrobe from the film taught me that, by adding a few key pieces to my closet — slouchy socks, tulle skirts, bodysuits — I could at least look like one.

Clearly, my fashion taste has proven to be ahead of its time because balletcore is back for 2023. The good news is, you don't need to have rhythm to embrace the barre-inspired wardrobe. In fact, vice president of Thirty Three Threads Jennifer Glover says balletcore is just another way to bridge the gap between comfy athleisure and the more elaborate clothing you'd piece together for work and social engagements.

Even Kendall Jenner nailed the aesthetic recently, styling an oversized sweater outfit with a sweet pair of ballet flats.

Kendall Jenner Wearing Ballet Flats — Getty Images

So what clothing, specifically, does balletcore entail? Celebrity stylist, Tanya Tamburin tells InStyle it's "everything from tulle skirts to soft satin tops, bodysuits, wrap-tops and cardigans, leg warmers paired with skirts or over leggings and, of course, ballet flats." Essentially, the aesthetic is comprised of anything feminine and comfortable that allows you to move freely, like a dancer. And, as personal stylist Soneca Guadara tells us, "it's glamour meets cozy."

Still, the trend works for formal occasions, too. Case in point: Salma Hayek's tulle corset dress, which wouldn't look out of place on stage.

If you're hoping to channel the trend for yourself this year, we’ve got you covered, Ahead, a few of our favorite stylists share their best balletcore outfit ideas.

Go All-in On Layers

Balletcore Fashion Trend Outfit Ideas — Getty Images

Personal styling advisor for MiKADO Personal Styling, Jordan Stolch tells InStyle that balletcore is “all about embracing the dreamy, ethereal aesthetic of the dance world while striking the perfect balance between elegance and ease.” One of the best ways to achieve this balance, she says, is to layer up.

“Think a silk slip skirt paired with a bodysuit, a bustier-cut tulle dress over a thin, knit sweater, or a lace wrap-top worn with your favorite trousers. Play with heavily feminine fabrications and soft colors, mixed with must-have ballerina black, and add in classic details like simple flats, thin headbands, and sheer tights.”

Break Out The Leg Warmers

…and not just for their functionality. Fashion stylist, Tara West says this ode to the '80s has been refreshed on the runways, particularly for the 2023 Spring/Summer collections.

“Use the colder winter months as an excuse to get yourself a pair of leg warmers in a soft lilac or light pink color,” West recommends. “Wear them with black leggings, an oversized or wrap-style sweater with a pair of UGGs, or combat boots to balance the theme while keeping you toasty.”

Wear Ballet Flats With Everything

Personal stylist, Allie McKenna tells InStyle her go-to nod to the balletcore trend will be styling ballet flats (her favorites are by Miu Miu) with everything from a pair of black leather trousers with a light pink wrap top and a sleek bun or a skinnier leg black pant. It’s an easy way to get the look without having to reimagine your entire wardrobe in the process.

Make It Minimal

Rather than donning LBDs, fashion designer and stylist Leah Taylor points out that fashion lovers are now gravitating towards statement-making power coats that serve as a major focal point with a simple outfit underneath.

“Some are just wearing printed tights, some even dare to just wear only undergarments underneath,” Taylor says of the bold aesthetic. “This ensemble can be paired with leg warmers and/or ballet flats to finish up your balletcore look. The perfect combo of fashion statement, sexiness, and comfort.”

Add Some Bodysuits To Your Wardrobe

As far as West is concerned, bodysuits are a balletcore mainstay (and we agree).

“Luckily, there is no shortage of options to find the perfect style — turtleneck, cut-out, deep V-neck, scoop, boat neck silhouettes or a classic crew neck,” West tells us. “A well-fitting bodysuit is very flattering to any figure, creating beautiful lines on the body. Style it under a blazer with your favorite denim and a satin ballet flat.”