5 Style Secrets from Ballerinas
What to wear when you're a pro athlete but being pretty is part of the job description.

More than ever, ballerinas are being recognized not only as artists but—pardon my language—f*cking beasts who use every single muscle in their bodies to do physics-defying things. Because of this unique dichotomy of delicacy and athleticism (and also because we really wanted to know what kind of underwear one could possibly wear under a leotard), we consulted three top ballerinas, who tipped us off on everything from the dancer-preferred method of layering to tights that basically give you stilts for legs.
The unexpected place they shop for activewear
Hint: It sounds kind of like Schmorever Schwenty-one. Although Lauren Post, a corps de ballet member with American Ballet Theater, swears by Bandier for leggings and tops, she also shops at the affordable retailer for "cute and functional" pieces.
A post shared by Lauren Post (@laurencpost)
A photo posted by on
They make bras out of...tights
Don't even pretend you've never MacGyvered a bra out of something weirder. Sara Mearns, principal dancer with New York City Ballet, says that while she's outfitted in personalized undergarments (fancy), dancers who need a little extra support will chop the top off a pair of tights to make a bandeau. *mentally bookmarks for next strapless-dress-induced panic session*
Oh, and speaking of tights, Mearns goes with pink, which she said is the best color for elongating and looking more streamlined.
Where to buy leotards that don't suck/are cool enough to wear as real clothes
Recommendations from Claire Davison, a corps de ballet dancer with ABT: Yumiko (they're customizable!), Elevé (these are too!), and Label Dancewear.
Layer like a ballerina™
Preparing for Swan Lake and simply wanting to not trip over your own feet during Zumba are kind of different, but either way, it couldn't hurt to learn how Mearns dresses for peak performance. The base: a leotard with tights on top. Then come a fitted long-sleeve shirt, a sweatshirt, a scarf, and knit calf warmers. As she warms up, she'll remove layers until she's back down to the base. Anybody else plotting to do this this winter?
A post shared by Sara Mearns (@saramearns)
A photo posted by on
Ah, the million-dollar question. "I wear seamless nude thongs under my costumes," Post says. "They're comfortable and can be hidden in almost any material. Victoria's Secret and Gap Body make nice ones. I don't usually wear bras under costumes, but if a costume is transparent, I will wear a nude leotard from Capezio underneath." Naked dresses, here we come.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
A post shared by Lauren Post (@laurencpost)
A photo posted by on
Follow Marie Claire on Instagram for the latest celeb news, pretty pics, funny stuff, and an insider POV.
Chelsea Peng is a writer and editor who was formerly the assistant editor at Marie Claire. She's also worked for The Strategist and Refinery29, and is a graduate of Northwestern University. On her tombstone, she would like a GIF of herself that's better than the one that already exists on the Internet and a free fro-yo machine. Besides frozen dairy products, she's into pirates, carbs, Balzac, and snacking so hard she has to go lie down.
-
Hailey Bieber’s Just as Obsessed With This ‘90s Hair Accessory As the Rest of Us
The new mom was spotted in this Fashion Week-approved trend while running errands.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Prince William's Love of Family Travel "Has Been Shaped" by Princess Diana's Death and Desire for a "Normal Upbringing"
"He understands his duty but also wants to make sure his family comes first."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Now That We've Devoured 'Onyx Storm,' We're Rounding Up Everything We Know About the 'Fourth Wing' TV Show
Rebecca Yarros's bestselling romantasy series is getting the Prime Video series treatment.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Marie Claire Editors Are Obsessed With This Cult-Favorite Sale
SSENSE has everything a fashion enthusiast could ever want.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Spring 2025's Candy-Coated Shoe Color Trends Prove Neutrals Are Overrated
Bold pastels and sugar-sweet hues promise to overtake your boring shoe lineup.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Issa Rae Is Fueling Her Mogul Era With More Me Time
The key to her success lies in self-care.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
13 Hailey Bieber Outfit Formulas Defining Her Laidback Personal Style
Copy and paste to your closet.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
8 Women Over 60 Share Their Age-Defying Fashion Wisdom
These eight style icons prove that age-appropriate fashion is a myth.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Margaret Qualley's Backless Chanel 2025 Oscars Dress Secretly Nods to 'The Substance'
The backward necklace is the cherry on top.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Embrace 2025’s Cherry Red Color Trend With These Delectable Accessories
Try the tart shade with accessories like glossy handbags and sweet slingbacks.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I’m Copying These Street Style Outfits I Spotted at New York Fashion Week
They're low-effort and high-impact.
By Lauren Tappan Published