From elegant buns to perfectly pink makeup hues, the ballet-core trend looks set to endure. here’s how to master this timeless aesthetic.
In recent years, we’ve witnessed a serious uptake in ballet-core inspired makeup and hair. This trend, obviously, draws inspiration from the world of ballet, and seeks to emulate the grace, beauty and strength of a ballerina as she effortlessly glides across the stage. This is a look that is whimsical yet modern, customisable yet universally flattering.
At the heart of ballet-core makeup lies the celebration of natural beauty. This aesthetic seeks to enhance rather than mask your features, allowing your unique beauty to shine through. Lightweight, hydrating foundations and concealers lend a flawless-looking complexion while maintaining a luminous, natural glow. Neutral eyeshadows, precise eyeliner and volumising mascara draw attention to the eyes, while contouring and highlighting techniques help to sculpt the facial structure. Soft rosy or nude shades subtly enhance the lips, providing the finishing touch to this enchanting look.
Complexion perfection
Like a dancer prepares their canvas before performing a masterpiece, the ballet-core makeup trend starts with a flawless base. Smooths luminous skin is key in achieving this.
Serums will help to hydrate and ‘plump’ your skin. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid and massage into skin before moisturising.
Before applying foundation, consider using an illuminating prime. These products often contain light-reflecting particles that provide a subtle glow to the skin. Apply a thin layer over your moisturiser to create a luminous base for your makeup.
Emphasise the natural glow of your skin by opting for a sheer, lightweight foundation or tinted moisturiser. These formulas allow your natural complexion to shine through while providing a hint of coverage.
To enhance the ballet-inspired look, now’s the time to go against everything you’ve learned and choose a foundation shade that is one shade lighter than your skin tone. This will create a subtle ethereal glow, reminiscent of the spotlight hitting a dancer on stage.
Contour define & highlight
The goal is to create softly sculpt your features for added definition. Start by delicately contouring the hollows of your cheeks and the sides of your forehead with a cool-toned contour shade. Blend softly to achieve a natural shadow effect.
Next, add a touch of shimmering light to the high points of your face. Apply a pearl-toned highlighter to your cheekbones, brow bone and the bridge of your nose. The combination of contour and highlight will give your face dimension and elegance.
Eyes are the focal point of the beautiful ballet-inspired look. Begin by applying eyeshadow in muted, earthy tones or double down on the ballerina vibe with soft pinks and mauves.
To intensify the drama, line your upper lash line with a black liquid eyeliner. Extend the line beyond the outer corner of your eye to create a winged effect – both subtle and dramatic options work here. Finish with two coats of lengthening and volumising mascara.
Alluring eyes
Eyes are the focal point of the beautiful ballet-inspired look. Begin by applying eyeshadow in muted, earthy tones or double down on the ballerina vibe with soft pinks and mauves.
To intensify the drama, line your upper lash line with a black liquid eyeliner. Extend the line beyond the outer corner of your eye to create a winged effect – both subtle and dramatic options work here. Finish with two coats of lengthening and volumising mascara.
Rosy glow
A delicate flush of colour on the cheeks is essential to the prima ballerina vibe. Opt for soft, rosy blush shades that mimic a natural flush of colour. Apply the blush to the apples of your cheeks, gently blending it towards your temples.
Petal-soft lips
A soft, pretty pink lip colour is a signature look of the ballet-core trend. Choose a shade that enhances your natural lip colour, such as soft pinks, rosy nudes or delicate berry tones. Apply a satin or sheer formula to give just a hint of colour.
Crowning glory
Complete your look with head- turning hair. Whether it’s a sleek bun, ethereal braids or a romantic twisted updo, these hairstyles will create a sophisticated and polished look worthy of a prima ballerina.
Tips for nailing the ballet core look
- Ensure proper skin preparation by exfoliating and moisturising beforehand to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.
- Use a damp beauty sponge or brush for a seamless foundation application.
- When applying eyeshadows, blend well to keep it soft and romantic and to avoid any demarcation lines.
- Don’t forget to curl your lashes before applying mascara to add extra dimension and length to your eyes.
- Opt for matte contouring products for a natural shadow effect.
- Use a light hand when applying highlighter to maintain a subtle, natural- looking glow.
- Experiment with different lip shades to find the perfect rosy or nude tone that complements your skin tone. A good rule of thumb is to match your lipstick colour to the underside of your lips or gums.
