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How to Look Like a Ballerina: 6 Wardrobe Staples to Steal for Your Everyday Life

You may not *be* particularly graceful, but you can at least look like it.

By Lauren Valenti

Mar 4, 2015

Getty Images

We're no prima ballerinas, but you wouldn't know it by our wardrobes—our closets are filled with dancer must-haves. From Kim K-beloved bodysuits to satin ballet slippers, these essentials can serve as year-round standbys and will make you feel like you can figuratively pirouette through your day.

The Bodysuit

Contrary to popular belief, bodysuits are actually less maintenance than regular tops—especially when you're wearing them with a pair of high-waisted trousers or a pencil skirt. Not to mention, these one-pieces quite literally fit like a glove.

1. Ballet Beautiful Mesh-Paneled Stretch Leotard, $85; net-a-porter.com.

2. Maison Martin Margiela Strapless Stretch-Jersey Bodysuit, $265; net-a-porter.com.

3. H&M Boat-Neck Bodysuit $34.95; hm.com.

The Wrap Top

You've got to love a transitional layering piece, and a cropped wrap top is just that. Whether you're heading to ballet barre class or simple meeting a friend for brunch, these throw-overs will be a lovely option.

1. Ballet Beautiful Belle Wrap-Front Knitted Jersey top, $155; net-a-porter.com.

2. Topshop Space Dye Ballet Wrap Top, $38; topshop.com.

3. Lisa Marie Fernandez Dree micro-fiber wrap top, $300; net-a-porter.com.

The Ballet Slippers

Ballet slippers are the ultimate godsend for flat enthusiasts (and heel lovers who want to rest their poor soles). Slip on a pair and suddenly your channeling the blithe elegance of Audrey Hepburn—even if you're running around all day.

1. Repetto Ballet Flats Cendrillion Classic Patent, $295; net-a-porter.com.

2. Ballet Beautiful Satin Ballet Slippers, $120; net-a-porter.com.

3. Sam Edelman Women's Felicia Ballet Flat, $100; amazon.com.

The Off-the-Shoulder Top

A ballerina staple, these sweaters not only give your shoulders a chance to breathe, but are decidedly chic and sexy worn on their own or layered over a tank top. Invest in styles that are both loose and contoured to your body.

1. H&M Off-the-Shoulder Top, $34.95; hm.com.

2. River Island Pink Burnout Long Sleeve Bardot Top, $48; riverisland.com.

3. Zara Off-Shoulder Top, $39.90; zara.com.

The Legwarmers

Don't be scared by the unsavory '80s associations—these knit dance must-haves can be worn layered over your bottoms or alone as compromise between wearing tights and going bare-legged in between seasons. We love them in ballet pink and neutrals.

1. Wolford Fine Merino Rib Legwarmers, $82; zappos.com.

2. Hue Ribbed Leg Warmer, $14; lorisshoes.com.

3. Ballet Beautiful Lily knitted jersey legwarmers, $90; net-a-porter.com.

The Leggings

When it comes to leggings, it's all about the styling and long tops are paramount. One tried-and-true rule to follow is that you should never wear them with a top that doesn't cover your behind—you can save that look for ballet rehearsal.

1. The Row Stratton Cotton-Blend Leggings, $475; net-a-porter.com.

2. Splendid Stretch-Jersey Leggings, $60; net-a-porter.com.

3. Topshop Dark Blue Denim Leggins, $38; topshop.com.