Adding color to your uniform

When you have to wear a uniform to dance class, it can be difficult to distinguish yourself from others and show your personality.  My studio has this little saying: "What you wear is about the art of ballet, not a personal statement."  I agree, however it makes it more fun to dance when I feel happy and confident about what I'm wearing.

Depending on the style of dance you do and how strict the dress code is, some of these suggestions may be more difficult to pull off than others.  I hope you find them fun and helpful!

I am assuming an base of all black or black leotard and pink tights.


1.  Small colored crystal post earrings.

These can be found almost anywhere (the mall, online, even Walmart) and they are generally inexpensive.  Even the strictest schools usually allow small, subtle jewelry

2.  Colorful hair accessories

These simple clips are fun and easy to use.  Put a couple in your hair to keep "fluffies" away.  You can use nail polish to dress up plain ones you already have.

I love these neon headbands from UnderArmor.  They are super bright and fun, and they stay in place very well because they are made for athletes.

You can find small colorful bows all over-- try your local dancewear store for styles especially for dancers.  They are also available at the mall, Walmart, etc.  You can also try making your own with some ribbon scraps, hot glue, and barettes.

3.  Ballet belts

These are meant to be worn around the waist to help you align your hips in front of the mirror, but they can also be a fun fashion statement.

4.  Fun warm ups (if allowed)

Bloch booties keep feet warm between classes, and their bright colors make you hard to miss.

These Gaynor Minden warm ups are made of nylon from bamboo, so they are soft, warm, and sustainable.  The colors are bright and the cuts of the shrugs and shorts are flattering on everyone.

Striped legwarmers are always fun and fashionable.  This short length is easy to wear in class--the teacher can still see most of your leg.

5.  A pretty dance bag

These bags by Jumeaux Dance Bags (search twinstalkballet93 on YouTube or Jumeaux Dance Bags on Facebook for more info) are super cute, and they are created by dancers, for dancers.

You can never go wrong with a classic print from Vera Bradley.  There are tons of patterns and colors to choose from.

6.  Subtly colorful make up

A teal liner under the eyes brings some color without overwhelming the face.

Find a subtle pink lipstick that flatters your skin tone.  You can rock it in the studio and on the street!

A soft pink shadow on your lid makes you look sweet and sophisticated.

7.  Kinesio tape

All dancers get injuries from time to time.  K tape can help relieve stress on sore muscles.

Kinesio tape comes in all kinds of fun colors.  Choose your favorite bright color like pink or turquoise to add color to your look and cheer yourself up even though you're sore.

8.  Colored trim on leotards (if allowed)

Yumiko Dancewear allows you to customize your leotards with base and trim colors.  If your studio allows, choose bright contrasting trim to go with your basic black.

Black and pink is always a classy and flattering choice.

8.  Colored nail polish (if allowed)

If you're gearing up for a performance, use nude polishes only.  But for class, choose something cheerful and not too neon, like this pretty lilac shade.

Share in the comments how you add color and personality to your class uniforms!