I'm a Ballet Dancer — and This Bodysuit Lives Up to the Balletcore Aesthetic

Ballet was my first love. And as a professionally trained dancer in ballet, contemporary, modern dance, hip-hop, jazz dance, and tap dance, I've authentically lived what's called the balletcore aesthetic on TikTok. To me, the trend transcends fashion and beauty to lifestyle; I never feel more balletcore than when I'm dripping in sweat, wearing foot tape to cover up blisters, or rummaging through a dance bag for bobby pins — not even when I'm standing at the barre with my hair up in a bun or changing from ballet shoes to pointe shoes.

But you don't need to be a ballet dancer to play around with balletcore. Dancers and non-dancers can explore this look through their hair, makeup, and, of course, clothing. And as I was looking for ways to expand my dance wardrobe beyond my standard leotards, wrap skirts, and light pink convertible tights, I came across this 108 Sportif Ithaca Bustier Bodysuit ($279) on 108sportif.com. As soon as I first saw the bodysuit, I knew I had to try it.

Ithaca Bustier Bodysuit

From

$279

$279 at 108sportif.com

What drew me into this bodysuit was the fact that it's inspired by the ballet aesthetic. As a ballet dancer, I've been wearing a leotard and convertible pink tights since I was 4 years old. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and our collective sweatpants era began, I started to move away seek out more comfortable pieces to wear when going to a dance class or barre class.

This bodysuit not only achieves the ballet "look," but it also seemed to me to be super easy to wear. Putting on tights and a leotard can be a bit uncomfortable, especially when you are going from one class to another all sweaty. But, this bodysuit is versatile and can be worn anywhere (depending on how strict the dress code is at the studio you go to).

The brand generously offered to let me try out the Ithaca Bustier Bodysuit — and it definitely lived up to my first impression. Here are my thoughts.

The design of the 108 Sportif Ithaca Bustier Bodysuit mirrors that of a dance leotard, except it's a bodysuit.

It's made of what the brand calls its REPREVE fibre, created from recycled plastic bottles, and the material feels both high quality and super soft, which I love. Despite the softness, the bra's straps and lining give you a total sense of support, and the material is incredibly flexible, so while it was form-fitting, it was also very comfortable.

The corset design detail cinches at the waist, accentuating your natural curves, which was a plus since some one-pieces can make you feel a bit rectangular.

Another huge benefit: the bodysuit is easy to put on and take off, so you won't be wrestling with the straps when you're trying to go to the bathroom.

I also found the style was surprisingly versatile — something that was easy to take from the studio to the streets. I tested out its ability to hold up during a workout by wearing it during a Class Fitsugar video first. I tried the 30-Minute bodyweight barre workout (from the comfort of my home) and I loved how supported I felt in this bodysuit. Next, I wore it during one of Tiler Peck's iconic instagram live ballet classes #turnitoutwithtiler, which she saves on her page. Besides the fact that it kept me supported and dry the whole class, wearing this bodysuit while working out also reminded me that I don't need to be in a leotard and tights 24/7 to feel like the ballet dancer I am.

But it's cute enough for everyday wear too. For a streetwear style, the brand recommends pairing it with a jacket. Regardless of styling, I still consider the bodysuit a little more casual, although it's slightly more elevated than a regular leggings-and-hoodie Sunday 'fit. I wore it out for lunch with my sister on the weekend, and I felt super comfortable and just chic enough to be eating out in. I consider it the perfect thing to work out in if you plan on stopping for a meal before heading home.

The sizing runs small. I recommend going a size bigger than what you're normally used to. Although a medium size fits me well, I think that a size large would have made it feel a bit less tight and more comfortable. So, if you tend to feel best with some wiggle room, definitely go a size up — or make sure to try the piece on before purchasing.

That said, the sizing is relatively limited, only going from XS to XL.

The 108 Sportif Ithaca Bustier Bodysuit is great for anyone looking for comfort and support while working out. If you're not a huge fan of a two-piece workout set, then this bodysuit is perfect for you.

The 108 Sportif Ithaca Bustier Bodysuit is available on 108sportif.com or Tracey Anderson ($279).

Tracey Anderson

From

$279

$279 at tracyanderson.com

Rating:

★★★★★