Can you remember the first time you saw Dirty Dancing? We’re pretty sure every Dirty Dancing fan has wanted to be Frances “Baby” Houseman at some point in their lives, strutting in heels and being lifted high into the air in
that pink chiffon dress. Maybe it was Natalie Portman’s glammed up feather leotard and tutu in 2010’s Black Swan that made you want to take up ballet.
As you may have guessed, we’re obsessed with dancewear! With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of some of the outfits worn by our all-time favourite dancers, from the legends and early pioneers to the stars of the silver screen. We’ve also added some advice on how to get some of these iconic looks.
1. Anna Pavlova
When it comes to a who’s who of the ballet world, Anna Pavlova is the name everyone remembers. The Russian ballerina is highly regarded as one of the most important ballet dancers of all time, helping to bring the art to a mass-audience. Pavlova is also credited with inventing
‘the dying swan’.
To replicate Pavlova’s look we recommend this
Romantic Tutu Skirt from Roch Valley and a
white leotard,
such as this one from So Danca, twinned with a pair of pointe shoes. If you’re feeling creative, incorporate some feathers and jewels from a craft shop into your outfit to reflect the elegance and grandeur of that time.
2. Ginger Rogers
Ginger Rogers was the Hollywood powerhouse who, with the help of her regular dance partner Fred Astaire, brought the magic of dance to cinema. Ginger, who could dance, act and sing, was a real triple threat and wooed audiences worldwide.
Rogers came from a time of elegance and sophistication. Eveningwear is the theme when it comes to this particular look;
a pair of heels is a must! A black ballroom dress, like this
one from the So Danca range, is also essential for those looking to recreate some of the actresses’ best looks, including those seen in 1935’s Top Hat. Complete the outfit with your best necklace and blood red lipstick.
3. Baby from Dirty Dancing
Of all the great 80s dance films (Footloose, Flashdance, Fame) Dirty Dancing has to be our favourite. The soundtrack, the choreography, Patrick Swayze… what’s not to love?
We think this
Roch Valley Calf Length pink skirt is perfect for those looking to recreate Baby’s iconic look in the film’s climatic scene. Match the skirt with a pink strap top or vest and a pair of heels for that iconic look.
Nobody puts Baby in a corner!
4. Isadora Duncan
Many regard Isadora Duncan as one of the founding pioneers of modern dance. Duncan enjoyed an impressive career, touring all around the world and starting the Isadora Duncan Dance Company, before her tragic death in 1927. The performer was also known for her rebellious streak, shunning traditional dancewear for more loose fitting tunics and gowns.
This
Capezio Tunic Dress Top is akin to the type of clothing the American dancer would have worn. When it came to shoes, the international star seldom wore any, instead choosing to rehearse and dance barefoot. Try
Bloch’s Spin Half Sole Foot Pouch for an almost barefoot look but giving you extra spin and traction with the floor.
5. Honey Daniels from Honey
We can’t talk about street dance movies without mentioning Jessica Alba’s character in Honey. The film told the tale of a young dance teacher juggling her dreams with multiple jobs.
Whilst, we instantly fell for Honey, we also went crazy for her look. Track pants, crop tops and trainers all feature and are the mainstays of an urban dancers wardrobe.
For those looking to get the look,
have a browse of our extensive street wear range, where you’ll find a number of great outfit ideas, including this stylish
Papillon crop top and these
Sansha Jazz Pants.
6. Natalie Portman from Black Swan
In our opinion, Natalie Portman’s performance as Nina in Black Swan was flawless. The film is often remembered for its originality, standout individual performances and some incredible costumes.
Portman’s outfit in the film is traditional ballet through and through, with an underlying gothic theme. To truly nail this look, you’ll want to invest in a pair of black pointe shoes. Check out our guide on getting fitted for pointe shoes for more help. Match with a
black tutu and
leotard to complete the look.
Why not tell us about your favourite dancers and why you love their style, Leave us a note in the comment below, or tag us in a post on
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Facebook or
Instagram We’d love to see your favourites!
