How to Live Like a Ballerina: Secrets from NYC Ballet Pros and Celeb Style Icons


Ever wonder what it’s like to live with the grace and style of a ballerina? From Sarah Jessica Parker’s chic bun to the toned physiques of New York City Ballet dancers, ballerina culture is more than just a look – it's a lifestyle. Today, we're diving into the world of balletcore, exploring not only the fashion but also the fitness, mindset, and spirit behind living like a true ballerina, with insights straight from professionals and celebs who have nailed the aesthetic.

Balletcore Basics: What Is It?

The “balletcore” trend, marked by tutus, tights, and leg warmers, has taken over fashion magazines, red carpets, and even TikTok feeds. Miu Miu’s ballet flats are selling out at record speed, and brands are churning out wraps, skirts, and leotards that scream “ballet chic.” However, the balletcore trend is more than just fashion; it’s about embracing elegance, confidence, and a disciplined lifestyle inspired by the dedication and strength of professional dancers.

1. Master the Ballerina Posture – How to Stand Tall, Even If You’re Sitting Down

The first step to looking like a ballerina? Learn to carry yourself like one.

  • Stand Tall: Sarah Jessica Parker, co-chair of the New York City Ballet Fall Fashion Gala, says that elegance begins with confidence. “Lift your head, open your shoulders, plant your feet — and that’s all it is,” she shared. Whether you’re strutting down the street or trying to keep it together in a work meeting, channeling that ballerina poise can make you look more composed than the rest of us slouched over in sweats.

  • Mind Your Core: Ballerinas know that balance starts from within. Activating your core doesn’t require endless sit-ups but rather focusing on an engaged, elongated posture. It’s about being able to stand with the poise of a swan, even if you’ve never set foot in a ballet studio.

2. Embrace Balletcore Fashion – Because Life’s Too Short Not to Own a Tutu

If you’ve been keeping up with the “balletcore” trend, you know that it’s all about finding flowy, functional pieces. Professional dancer Tiler Peck says she gravitates toward feminine clothes that move, describing balletcore as a “natural” fit. To bring some ballet-inspired flair to your wardrobe:

  • Go Flowy and Fitted: Swap out those stiff jeans for high-waisted leggings, wrap sweaters, and flowy skirts that twirl around you. Dancers swear by comfortable yet figure-hugging pieces that allow freedom of movement.

  • Elegant Neutrals: Balletcore isn’t all about pink – think understated colors, too. Gray, cream, and deep blues add sophistication, while soft pink and blush hues keep things whimsical.

  • Hair Up, Always: Brynn Whitfield from Real Housewives of New York City swears by the high, slicked-back bun. Whether you’re getting fancy for a gala or just trying to look chic in a hurry, a sleek bun can transform you into a ballerina in seconds. It’s an affordable hack that requires zero glam squad and says, “I’m fancy, but not high maintenance.”

3. Build a Ballerina Body – No Barre Required

If you think all ballerinas do is dance all day, think again. Building a lean, graceful physique involves cross-training, and pros rely on specific workouts to keep their muscles long and lean.

  • Pilates and Gyrotonics: Tiler Peck advocates for these low-impact exercises, which focus on stretching and elongating muscles rather than bulking up. “They build long, lengthy muscles,” she says, giving you that ballet physique without endless hours at the gym.

  • Body Consciousness: Unity Phelan from NYC Ballet emphasizes activating muscles with control and awareness. “You’re not supposed to be pumping iron,” she explains. Instead, try focusing on shorter exercises that engage your muscles without feeling like you’re getting ready for a wrestling match.

  • Ballet Class: For those ready to commit, Tiffany Haddish says the ultimate way to get that ballerina body is to actually do ballet. It’s a workout that engages muscles you didn’t even know existed. Don’t be afraid to step into a beginner’s class – you’ll gain body awareness and flexibility that your regular HIIT workout just doesn’t cover.

4. The Ballerina Diet – Fuel Up Like an Athlete, Not a Rabbit

Unlike the restrictive diets that can come with many fitness trends, ballet isn’t about depriving yourself. The energy required for dancing is intense, and ballet dancers eat like athletes.

  • Carb Load: Justin Peck, NYC Ballet’s resident choreographer, says dancers often rely on a high-calorie diet. “Pasta, anything that burns off — it’s almost like you’re running a marathon,” he explains. It’s not about a dainty salad; it’s about hearty meals that provide fuel for all those pirouettes.

  • Keep It Simple: Spicy and heavy foods are usually avoided pre-performance, but dancers eat balanced meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. They also swear by plenty of hydration and snacks that can be easily digested between rehearsals.

  • Recovery Nutrition: Stretching and eating mindfully for recovery are essential. You can find NYC Ballet dancers sipping on protein shakes and munching on nutrient-dense snacks like nuts, fruit, and yogurt.

5. Adopt the Ballerina Mindset – Resilience, Elegance, and a Touch of Sass

Ballet dancers are known not only for their grace but also for their strength, both physical and mental. It takes a lot to keep smiling through hours of grueling rehearsals and painful pointe work. The dancers and choreographers from NYC Ballet shared insights on how the mental side of being a ballerina translates into everyday life.

  • Stand Up for Yourself: As NYC Ballet’s Wendy Whelan pointed out, the ballet world has traditionally been male-dominated, but things are changing. Today’s ballerinas are assertive and advocate for themselves. “A modern-day ballerina is assertive and speaks up for herself, while also staying chic and responsible,” said India Bradley, a NYC Ballet dancer. Living like a ballerina means valuing yourself and not being afraid to demand respect.

  • Stay Authentic: Ashley Bouder, another NYC Ballet dancer, emphasizes the importance of self-expression. “Don’t be afraid to be yourself, because that’s what we do on stage,” she shares. So, take a page from her book: if you feel like going flashy or trying something new, do it unapologetically.

6. Finding Your Own Ballet-Inspired Aesthetic – How to Make the Ballerina Look Work for You

Just because you’re not on stage doesn’t mean you can’t bring a touch of ballet-inspired style into your life. Here are some quick, practical tips:

  • Focus on Silhouettes: Balletcore is about fitted tops, high-waisted skirts, and cinched waists. Look for pieces that emphasize these shapes to bring that ballerina silhouette to your everyday look.

  • Invest in a Good Pair of Flats: Ballerina flats are back with a vengeance. Brands like Miu Miu are making luxurious versions, but you can find chic, affordable pairs that capture the ballet aesthetic without busting your budget.

  • Minimal, Elegant Makeup: Ballet dancers don’t pile on makeup for daily wear – they prefer a natural, dewy look. Stick to soft blush, a light touch of mascara, and clear lip gloss. You want to look like you just came out of a dreamy ballet class, not a nightclub.

7. Ballerina-Inspired Wellness Habits – For That Dancer Glow

Living like a ballerina isn’t just about looking the part; it’s about incorporating wellness habits that keep you centered and energized.

  • Start with Stretching: Every dancer begins their day with a good stretch, and it’s a habit worth picking up. Stretching not only keeps you limber but also helps improve circulation and reduce stress. Even a five-minute routine in the morning can make a big difference.

  • Mindfulness and Breathing: Dance requires intense focus and a calm mindset, which is why many dancers incorporate mindfulness into their routines. Simple breathing exercises and mindful movement can help you stay grounded and reduce stress.

  • Prioritize Recovery: Ballet is physically demanding, so dancers place huge importance on rest and recovery. Taking time to relax, hydrate, and nourish your body is key to maintaining a ballerina-inspired lifestyle. Remember, rest is just as important as exercise in the dancer’s world.

Final Pirouette: Embrace the Ballerina Life with Confidence and Flair

Living like a ballerina is about more than pirouettes and tutus. It’s a mindset and lifestyle that celebrates poise, resilience, and elegance in every aspect of life. Whether you’re embracing the balletcore trend with leg warmers and leotards, taking a beginner ballet class, or simply standing a bit taller, channeling the spirit of a ballerina can bring a touch of grace into your world.

So go ahead, channel your inner dancer, hold your head high, and live life with the elegance and confidence of a prima ballerina.

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