From TikTok to the catwalk: the evolution of balletcore
The ballerina, a timeless symbol of grace and femininity, is undergoing a fascinating metamorphosis. Between TikTok influences and the stylistic hijackings of luxury houses, this iconic shoe has crossed the eras by reinventing its codes. From classic elegance to contemporary rebellion, focus on a cultural and fashion transformation.
Balletcore: TikTok’s take on dance
The balletcore trend, born on TikTok, revisits the codes of classical dance to adapt them to a contemporary lifestyle. Inspired by dancers’ wardrobes, this aesthetic blends comfort and femininity. Tights, cashmeres, ruffles and ribboned shoes come to life on the catwalk, as Maximilian Davis demonstrated for Ferragamo during the Spring-Summer 2025 show. This return to dance’s roots is accompanied by some striking collaborations: Chanel and choreographer Blanca Li, or Maria Grazia Chiuri dressing the dancers at the Rome Opera.
@vrublevskaxx ballet is something she will do all her life. #foryou #viraltiktok #fyp #aesthetic #pinterest #girl #ballet #herlive ♬ original sound – balletbulletin
In this new vision, the ballerina becomes a centerpiece. It comes in modern forms, combining tradition and innovation. Miu Miu and Simone Rocha play with frills and bows, while JW Anderson and Vaquera opt for bold combinations of leather and outerwear.
From aristocracy to pop culture
The popularity of ballerinas dates back to the post-war years, when Rose Repetto revolutionized fashion by creating ballerinas for icons such as Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn. A symbol of elegance and practicality, the shoe was adopted into everyday wear and became a staple of women’s wardrobes.
The 80s, marked by works such as Madonna’s Flashdance and Material Girl, celebrated an exuberant visual universe. The ballerina moved away from its classic image to become a symbol of freedom and creativity. Designers from Christian Lacroix to Vivienne Westwood are boldly reinterpreting the ballerina, breaking its traditional associations with control and discipline.
Reinvention and rebellion: the punk ballerina
Today, the ballerina continues to evolve, adopting more radical codes. Sophie Abriat, author of Danser sur le volcan, highlights this transformation. Models such as Dior Punk or Vivienne Westwood’s Rockinghorse ballerina embody a rebellion against the ideal of perfection associated with classical dance. These creations blur genres and norms, redefining the ballerina as a symbol of emancipation.
By freeing itself from its aristocratic heritage, the ballerina becomes a daring fashion object, reflecting the tensions between tradition and modernity.
Also read: Pinterest Predicts 2025: trends to decipher
