Leotards, wrap tops and capris: Our favourite labels doing Balletcore
image via @emmmmilywatson/instagram
words by daisy henry
On pointe.
Balletcore isn’t exactly new, however, its transition from the dance studio and the collections of designers is. It’s been gaining momentum over the past few years, with its rise closely tied to the decline of traditional activewear styles (like leggings and matching Lycra sets).
Balletcore can be described as a hybrid of activewear and ready-to-wear elements. It’s not the kind of clothing you’d wear to a hot mat Pilates class but it should be comfortable enough for some light stretching if needed.
Discover more up-and-coming local designers in our Fashion section.
As the name suggests, it’s the type of clothing you’d imagine ballet dancers wearing en route to a performance. Think wrap tops, boleros, leotards, capris, ruching, ruffles and bows. But, at the end of the day, it’s an aesthetic open to interpretation. You could embrace the pastel colours, bows, and girlishness of Balletcore, or opt for cleaner lines, subtle details and a more monochrome palette.
Maroske Peech
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Melbourne label Marokse Peach makes experimental pieces, with a creative nod to the world of dance. Imagine high-cut lace leotards, stripey gathered leggings, chic boleros and floral bloomers. Playful, girly and unexpected, Maroske Peech takes balletcore and turns it on its head in the best way possible.
Dominique Healy
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Dominique Healy founded her namesake label after spending ten years as a fabric wholesaler. Armed with a unique insight into local and ethical clothing production, she took the plunge and branched out on her own. Seven years on and the label is now known for quality styles that contour the body, while offering stretch and ease of movement.
Emily Watson
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From its pastel colour palettes, to asymmetrical hemlines, ruching and ties, Melbourne label Emily Watson’s latest collection perfectly encapsulates modern-day balletcore. Whether you’re in the market for a skirt-pant hybrid, bolero or frilly blouse, the label’s latest collection is playful, serene and comfortable, allowing you to effortlessly run between errands, just as a dancer might. Plus, each piece is made locally in its Brunswick atelier or with surrounding makers.
Dal 1992
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Ever since discovering Dal1992 earlier this year, we’ve excitedly welcome hosiery back into our wardrobes. Made in Italy, the label’s collection of sheer, monogrammed tights come in three different lengths (full, knee and ankle) and a playful range of colours. Whether its peeking out from a trouser leg or worn underneath a skirt, Dal1992’s tights are form-fitting, romantic and versatile.
Pinky and Kamal
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Activewear and lifestyle label Pinky and Kamal makes clothing you can wear throughout your day-to-day. With an emphasis on stretch, flexibility and comfort, it offers a fun and playful take on traditional activewear styles. Find wrap tops, capri leggings, one-shoulder tops and more.
All is a Gentle Spring
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Melbourne label All is a Gentle Spring offers a subtle, sensual take on balletcore that emphasises understated elegance. From its longline, bodice corselettes to its capri pants, miniskirts and long sleeve tops, every All is a Gentle Spring design is exclusively made from breathable natural fibres, including wool, silk and cotton.
Niamh Galea
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Formerly known as Ramp Tramp Tramp Stamp (RTTS), Niamh Galea’s eponymous Sydney label is known for its joyful, refreshing and size-inclusive styles. The first collection since her rebrand, Una Casa, Una Casa honours RTTS’ signature cut-outs, cropped silhouettes and bloomers but reimagines them through a softer, more personal lens.
Deiji Studios
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Deiji Studios blends the public and private. Through natural, breathable fibres and loose, drapey silhouettes, its the kind of clothing you’d feel just as comfortable wearing around the house as you would out in the world. It blends simple colour-ways, with unique elements, including cut-outs, ties and accessories, perfect for layering,
Caitlin Snell
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If you have a penchant for bows and flower clips, look no further than Caitlin Snell. Handmade from her home in New Zealand, the designer uses deadstock materials, natural fibres and even thrifted pieces to craft her collections, all while keeping production made-to-order to eliminate excess waste.
St. Agni
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Although Byron-Bay label St. Agni is perhaps most known for its tailoring and sleek, utilitarian styles, its basics range is a perfect building block for a versatile wardrobe. Find merino wool wrap tops, strapless dresses, cut-out tanks and perhaps most fittingly, an organic cotton Ballerina top.
Rachel Mills
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Another label hailing from New Zealand, Rachel Mills is known for its functional, polished, ready-to-wear garments. Made on-demand with seven days, the eponymous label makes pieces perfect for layering – think sheer, silk long sleeves, ribbed camis, sleeveless bodysuits and tied long sleeve tops.
Base Range
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Base Range makes clothing you’d imagine a ballet dancer wearing en route to class: comfy cardigans, ribbed T-shirts and dresses with drawstrings. With an emphasis on modern, minimal designs, clean lines and easy-to-wear silhouettes, its both comfortable and stylish.
For more on the rise of balletcore, head here.
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