The Influence of Ballet on High Fashion

A Pas de Deux Between Two Grand Art Forms

As one marvels at the ever-changing landscape of high fashion, it becomes apparent that there is a certain air of familiarity to it all. One may argue that this familiarity stems from the constant merging of art forms and historical influences. One such art form that continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of high fashion is ballet.

Ballet, an ethereal dance form that originated in the courts of the Italian Renaissance, made its way to France and Russia, where it truly bloomed. With its focus on grace, poise, and storytelling, it is no wonder that high fashion has taken a cue or two from this mesmerizing dance. Let us take a fantastical journey through the influence of ballet on high fashion.

The Tutu Transformation

Perhaps the most iconic element of ballet, the tutu, has made a seamless pirouette into the realm of high fashion. The tutu, with its stiff layers of tulle, was initially designed to showcase the dancer's intricate footwork and movement. Today, it has been reinterpreted by designers such as Viktor & Rolf, who presented an entire collection dedicated to the romantic tutu, complete with exaggerated and sculptural silhouettes that evoke images of the Paris Opera Ballet. The tutu has also found a more subtle place in high fashion, with designers such as Valentino and Rochas showcasing tulle skirts reminiscent of a softer, more demure romantic tutu.

Ballet Slippers and Beyond

High fashion has a penchant for taking the ordinary and elevating it to extraordinary heights. This can certainly be seen in the world of footwear, where ballet slippers have been given a new lease on life. High fashion has taken the ballet slipper and transformed it into a statement piece, with designers such as Christian Louboutin and Miu Miu sending models down the runway in sky-high heels that bear a striking resemblance to pointe shoes (minus the excruciating pain that comes with dancing en pointe, of course).

Indeed, the ballet slipper has become synonymous with luxury and sophistication, with brands such as Chanel and Lanvin offering their own versions of this classic shoe. The simple, yet elegant design of the ballet slipper has made it a staple in the wardrobes of fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike.

Leotards and Layers

While the tutu and ballet slipper have made their presence known in high fashion, let us not forget the humble leotard. This simple garment, designed to allow dancers maximum freedom of movement, has been reimagined by high fashion designers in a myriad of ways.

Gone are the days when the leotard was confined to the realms of dance studios and gymnastics competitions. Today, the fashion elite have embraced the leotard, with designers such as Balmain and Alexander Wang incorporating it into their collections. The leotard has even become a staple in the wardrobes of celebrities such as Beyoncé and Kim Kardashian, who have been known to pair it with everything from jeans to floor-length skirts.

High fashion has also taken inspiration from the layered look often seen in ballet costumes, with tights and leg warmers making a comeback in recent years. Designers such as Gucci and Fendi have embraced this trend, showcasing models wearing tights under dresses and skirts, while Isabel Marant and Acne Studios have brought leg warmers back to life, proving that everything old is indeed new again.

Grace in Motion: Ballet and High Fashion on the Runway

It is not only in the elements of ballet costumes that high fashion has found inspiration, but also in the movement and grace of the dancers themselves. Designers such as Alexander McQueen and Valentino have been known to incorporate ballet-inspired choreography into their runway shows, showcasing models who glide and twirl down the catwalk with the same elegance and poise as a prima ballerina.

Furthermore, some designers have taken their love of ballet to new heights by collaborating with ballet companies and dancers. Most notably, Christian Lacroix designed costumes for the American Ballet Theatre's production of "Gaîté Parisienne," while Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen created costumes for the New York City Ballet's Fall Gala in 2012.

A Never-Ending Dance of Inspiration

As the worlds of ballet and high fashion continue to intertwine, it is clear that this relationship is one of mutual admiration and inspiration. Whether it is in the form of tutu-inspired skirts, ballet slipper-esque heels, or elegant runway choreography, the influence of ballet on high fashion shows no signs of waning.

One can only imagine what fantastical creations may emerge from this pas de deux between these two grand art forms in the future. However, one thing is certain: the dance between ballet and high fashion will continue to enthrall and captivate audiences for years to come.


Article kindly provided by foreverinfashion.org