With getting dressed to stay at home [1] becoming ever more monotonous, I've been trying to strike that elusive balance of comfortable-but-not-slovenly. And since I spent my formative years pliéing away in a dance studio, I had a mini epiphany recently about how to do just that: by incorporating more dancewear into my wardrobe. By now, most of us have fully embraced athleisure [2]. But if you want to give a slightly chicer twist to your daily wardrobe, may I suggest danceleisure instead?
The idea struck me after I commiserated a little too much with this recent New York Times piece on how many of us are "hate-wearing" pandemic clothes [3]. You know that thing in your closet that's ill-fitting, stained, kinda ugly, or just makes you feel supremely meh — and that you wear anyway? For me, it was a pair of tattered Zara jeans that didn't quite fit at the waist, the hip, or really anywhere, but that I kept on throwing on simply because they were. . . around. I'm happy to report that since a pair of sleek black knit warmup pants from Bloch Dancewear arrived in my mailbox last week, I've ditched the shapeless denim and have been starting my mornings feeling cosy, put together, and a little bit like Misty Copeland. (A girl can delude herself, ok?)
What non-dancers might not realise is that the materials used in most classic ballet warmups and dancewear staples are fitted, soft, and stretchy — but with a little more polish, shape, and style than your typical activewear or loungewear. If you're ready to take the danceleisure plunge, read on for some of my must-have items for building a ballerina-approved capsule wardrobe. These pieces will leave you feeling ready to take Centre Stage, become one with the Bunheads, embrace your inner Tiny Pretty Thing [4] — or, at the very least, take some adult ballet classes [5].
Bloch Dancewear Marcie Warm Up Pant
Behold, the coziest leggings your closet ever did see. Bloch's Marcie Warm Up Pant [7] ($39) are one of the most flattering and versatile items in my rotation lately. They stretch to fit just right, have a comfy rollover waistband that hugs but never cinches your torso, and will make you feel like the prima ballerina of your own apartment.
Bloch Women's Dansoft Full Sole Leather Ballet Slipper
If you're like me, your slipper collection has exponentially expanded over the last year. I personally love a classic pair of leather or canvas ballet shoes for padding around the house. They're comfy, have a little bit of grip and structure, and are certainly more stylish than the pair of wooly slipper clogs your well-meaning relative may have sent you for a holiday present. Bloch's Dansoft Leather Ballet Slipper [8] ($12-26) comes in white, black, or pink.
Sueded Cotton Basic Dance Stirrup Leggings
Stirrup pants and leggings are having a fashion moment, but dancers have long been fans of these practical, chic staple. This M by Mariia Sueded Cotton Stirrup Legging [9] ($23) has just enough spandex for comfy stretch and a sumptuous, soft feel.
Capezio Ribbed Knit Wrap Sweater
Something you'll find in almost any ballerina's dance duffel? A handy wrap sweater. This Capezio Ribbed Knit Wrap Sweater [10] ($44) is a classic example. Throw it on over a fitted tank for daytime, or let a lacy bra peek out along the edges for date night at home.
Commando Ballet Turtleneck Bodysuit
This wildly comfortable Commando Ballet Turtleneck Bodysuit [11] ($98) has everything going for it — thumbholes, a seamless thong closure, and a stretchy but not-too-tight material that feels just like your thickest pair of black tights. I feel instantly put together if I throw this on in the morning with some diamond studs and a great pair of jeans.