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Stylish Ways To Pull Fashion Cues From Dance Life

By Nataliya Ogle
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Published on October 16, 2014
Photo: Splash News Online, FameFlynet Pictures

Dance on the Runway

Pictured above: Natalie Portman at Thor Premiere // Photo: Splash News Online, FameFlynet Pictures

Dance-wear strongly inspired the looks prancing down the Spring/Summer 2015 runways, and contrary to popular trends, tutus weren't the only silhouettes the designers noticed this season. There was a strong push toward utilitarian clothing, billowing with movement and flowing smoothly from studio to streets. All good news for the dancer looking to steal a few cues from the runway!

Photo: Tracy Reese S/S 2015 by Alessandro Garofalo

The clothes were all about ease and movement rather than sequined flash and over-stated sparkle. Cue the mixing of your dance items with your closet staples. Let's look at Bottega Veneta: activewear elevated to the level of luxury worthy of a hefty price tag. Lucky for you, your closet probably contains an item or two seen on the brand's runway. Tanks, leggings, big chunky sweaters and belted cardigans intermingled together in a neutral gradient.

Photo: Bottega Veneta S/S 2015 by Yannis Vlamos

Now that the weather is colder, layer with more enthusiasm. During the day, throw on a long cozy knit cardigan and cinch it with a skinny belt over your dancing clothes. Layer on a large knit scarf over the ensemble and pull on your legwarmers. Don't be afraid to go all knit head to toe, just keep the colors neutral for easy pairing.

For an evening out, ditch the legwarmers and pull on dark tights with a thick lucite heel. Your feet won't appreciate an uptight stiletto at the end of a long day so give the thinner heels a rest. A chunky lucite heel allows an outfit to feel dainty and dressed up while providing comfort through extra surface area. Make sure to stick to a toned down black or nude pump or an ombre heel, and don't get a full on lucite platform! You don't want to be mistaken for a different kind of dancer.

Photo: Alexander McQueen Lucite Heel

Pass on a one-piece dress and go for separates when choosing your special occasion ensemble. Choose a simple top reminiscent of a leotard - something to define the torso and elongate the neck. For the bottom, consider an asymmetric skirt, shorter in the front and longer in the back in a silk satin or a flowy tulle.

A silk organza ballgown skirt // Photo: St. John

Create drama with your look! Think of your evening wardrobe as your premiere costume. Stand out and evoke a strong feeling in your audience. If it seems too cliche and slightly reminiscent of the outdated Carrie Bradshaw ballerina outfit, leave the pink and tulle behind. But, don't be surprised if you see non-dancers donning the pieces you wear to the studio.