You don’t have to be a dancer to shop the balletcore trend (but these pieces will definitely make you feel like one). Balletcore is still going viral on TikTok thanks to its timeless, elegant look…plus a healthy dose of pastel pink. In case you missed it, the trend consists of pieces you’d typically find at the ballet barre: think leg warmers, wrap-around cardigans, lightweight material, and plenty of tulle. But balletcore isn’t just for enhancing your everyday wardrobe — it also lends itself perfectly to athleisure and activewear.
As graceful as they appear, ballerinas are also hard-working athletes. The layers they wear are undoubtedly fashionable, but also functional for keeping muscles warm and avoiding injury. The balletcore aesthetic then, is not only aesthetically-pleasing, but perfectly practical for working out (whether you’re headed to ballet class or not). To help you tap into your inner dancer, we rounded up the best balletcore athleisure — from delicate coverups, to joggers you can really move around in. Read on to shop the trend and channel the prima ballerina within.
Victoria’s Secret Base Ballet Cotton Wrap Top, Pink Tulip ($35)
Looking to complete your balletcore base layer? This cotton top from Victoria’s Secret can help you out. It features a wrap-around silhouette, delicate velvet trim, and long sleeves to help you warm up before a workout class. Style with matching leggings, a sports bra, or your favorite pair of sweats.
Beyond Yoga Featherweight Waist No Time Wrap Top, Cloud White ($39, originally $78)
From barre to Pilates, this balletcore top is so flattering for working out. It’s truly wrappable with thumb holes and a lightweight fabric meant to be worn as a layer. “This wrap is beautiful, the material is soft and lightweight, and nearly sheer,” one reviewer wrote. “I wore it over my swimsuit and in warm up before dance class. It has a fun and sexy ballerina vibe that makes me feel pretty.”
Popflex Bow Back Mesh Reversible Long Sleeve Top, Bubblegum ($42)
Would you believe us if we said this lightweight top ties up four different ways? It’s meant to be layered over your favorite sports bra (we recommend a matching pink colorway) for the ultimate balletcore look. ” I will be wearing this in and out of the gym because it’s so cute,” one reviewer wrote. “Perfect for people who love to wear long sleeves year round even when its warm out,” another added.
Aritzia Golden Butter New Cheeky Hi-Rise 3″ Short, Cupid Pink ($48)
If you’re looking for a balletcore workout short, this one might be the perfect fit. Made from Aritzia’s famous buttery material, these sweat-wicking bike shorts would be perfect for Pilates or a gym day, featuring a high-rise curved waistband to give your butt an extra lift.
Alo Goddess Leg Warmer, Powder Pink ($48)
Ballerinas aren’t the only ones who can rock a pair of leg warmers. These come in a variety of colors (including white, black, and quartz), featuring stirrups you can wear over your heel, or tucked up around your ankle. They’re a great, stylish layer to help keep your muscles warm — and there’s no easier way to get in on the balletcore trend. “Material is super comfortable and color is cute,” one shopper wrote about this pair.
Halara Breezeful Backless Corset 2-in-1 Pocket Mini Quick Dry Flowy Pickleball Active Dress, Angel Falls ($50)
It’s not a full-on tutu, but the flowy skirt of this Halara workout dress still gives us all the balletcore vibes. The dress is sweat-wicking and totally breathable for working out in, featuring four-way stretch, built-in shorts, side pockets, and removable padding. We also love the corset-style top, flowy skirt, and crisscross straps for an ultra-elegant look. “I play pickleball in this dress and get lots of compliments,” one reviewer confirmed.
Astoria Luxe Blossom Sports Bra, Cherry ($56) and Astoria Luxe Blossom Short, Cherry ($65)
There’s something so balletcore about the delicate pink detailing in this Astoria set. Each piece is dotted with tiny cherries for a fun yet elegant workout look. The sports bra includes double-layer straps and removable padding, while the matching shorts feature Astoria’s body-sculpting luxe fabric, moderate compression, a scrunch-butt detail, and a high waistline.
lululemon Wrap-Front Ribbed Long-Sleeve Top, Lilac Ether ($54, originally $78)
This wrap-around top might look familiar to former dancers. Designed for yoga or casual exercise, lululemon’s ribbed long-sleeve will keep your muscles warm throughout your entire workout. Plus, thanks to its ballet-inspired silhouette, you could also rock it outside of the gym.
Popflex Pirouette Skort, Digital Lavender ($60)
Taylor Swift recently wore this viral tulle skirt from Popflex (in lavender, of course), and we were sold. Aptly named the “pirouette skort,” this piece is specifically made with movement in mind, featuring built-in shorts, medium compression, and a high waistline. Plus, there’s plenty of fun colors to choose from. “The high-waisted design looks extremely flattering (even on someone with wider hips), while the skort’s interior side pockets add a layer of functionality that’s perfect for holding my keys or even cell phone while I’m exercising,” PS editor Kyley Warren wrote in her full review.
Free People Tempo Accelerate Layer, Cherry Blossom ($68)
This sporty long-sleeve is top rated for a reason. From the flattering ruching to the delicate back cutout, everything about this layer is perfectly balletcore. We also love the lightweight material, scoop neckline, and adorable thumbholes. “Ordered it as a gift for someone else, but now I want to keep it. The fabric is really lightweight and thin. It is also really stretchy,” one shopper wrote. “The pink color is even cuter in person.”
Aritzia Golden Butter Infinite Hi-Rise Legging, Cupid Pink ($78) and Aritzia Golden Butter Arc Bra Top, Cupid Pink ($50)
Aritzia’s high-rise leggings are named “butter” for a reason. These smoothing balletcore bottoms feature sweat-wicking fabric and minimal seams for the utmost comfort and style. This cupid pink colorway is our personal favorite, but the leggings also come in earthy neutrals like gray, taupe, and sage. Pair it with the matching longline v-neck bra top for the cutest balletcore workout set.
lululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Pant Regular, Rose Blush ($79, originally $118)
There’s a reason these cargos always sell out. Aptly named the “dance studio” pants, these mid-rise bottoms are made for movement. This rose blush color is our personal favorite, but you can also snag the pants in mint green and fuschia.
Exercere Ballet Wrap Blouse, Soft Pink ($73)
It doesn’t get much more balletcore than this lightweight pink cardigan. Not only is the color perfect, but so is the gauzy fabric — tying up like the ribbons on pointe shoes. Use this piece to elevate your activewear (and don’t forget to check out the matching yoga pants too).
Alo Airlift Down the Line Tennis Skirt, Ballet Pink ($88)
Our roundup wouldn’t feel right without a balletcore tennis skirt. We love this one for the smooth Airlift fabric, flowy silhouette, built-in shorts, and pink colorway. “Great skirt, the fit is true to size and the look is elegant yet athletic,” one shopper wrote. “Love the ballet pink,” another added.
Free People Righteous Runsie, Rose Water ($98)
The flattering silhouette of this pale pink “runsie” is giving us major balletcore energy. Throw a bow in your hair and we guarantee you’ll be the best-dressed person at your next workout class. Plus, it’s made with lightweight, compressive material for added support, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout your workout. “This runsie is great for running errands and for exercising,” one reviewer wrote. “I run miles in it every day and it is so comfortable and I receive a lot of compliments on the trail.”
Set Active Stripe Dress, Primrose ($98)
Made with Set Active’s iconic Sportbody fabric, this balletcore dress is specifically designed for exercise. It features built-in shorts, a scooped neckline, and plenty of support. We envision this pink ‘fit on the pickleball court, but truthfully, it’s cute enough to wear anywhere. “So comfortable and flattering,” one shopper confirms. “Supportive enough to wear for playing sports, and cute enough to wear out for lunch or to run errands.”
Free People For The Win Off The Shoulder Sweatshirt, Candy Pink Heather ($108)
Get the off-duty ballerina look with this casual off-the-shoulder sweatshirt. It’s perfect for the gym or just lounging, featuring a wide scoop neckline and drawstring detail. We recommend pairing it with your favorite pair of sweats for a more laidback balletcore outfit.
Alo 7/8 High-Waist Airbrush Legging, Ballet Pink ($108)
These Alo Airbrush leggings are reminiscent of actual ballet tights. True to their name, the leggings are made with a smoothing fabric featuring medium compression and a high-waist for the most flattering fit. Plus, you can’t beat the ballet pink colorway. “These leggings feel like a second skin,” one reviewer wrote. “They are so stretchy and do not cause discomfort. They are also thick without the weight or extra heat.”
Free People Sprint To The Finish Pants, Powder Pink ($108)
Every dancer needs a reliable pair of sweats. This wide-leg pair from Free People is casual, easy to throw on, and fleece-lined, which makes them especially great for any winter workouts. They come in 12 different colorways, but this powder pink definitely screams balletcore. “So thankful for this burst of color in my athleisure collection. Dopamine dressing, check,” one shopper wrote. “So soft, thicker material, band isn’t too tight, length fits perfect.”
lululemon Define Cropped Jacket Nulu, Rose Blush ($118)
Every dancer has to stay warm, and this sports jacket is the perfect way to do so. Not only is the slim fit and cropped design super flattering, but lululemon’s Nulu fabric is also unbelievably soft for ultimate comfort.
Alo Alosoft Center Stage Onesie, Ballet Pink ($128)
The shade of ballerina pink is just one reason why we love this Alosoft onesie. The fabric is ultra lightweight and meant to contour the body, featuring the most flattering low-cut back. The onesie also comes with built-in removable cups and adjustable straps so you can modify it based on your preferences. “Super soft and fits like a glove without being overly tight,” one reviewer wrote. “Fits very well for actual dance. Looks great and can wear sweats and off to the studio,” another shopper said.
Chandler Plante (she/her) is an assistant health and fitness editor for PS. She has over four years of professional journalism experience, previously working as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributing to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group.
