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September 29, 2012

Ballet Class Outfits: Make Your Own



The first time I made my own cropped top, I recycled an old pair of black leggings - but why stop there? You can find lots of leggings and tights in the sales bin; in colours and textures you would not normally wear. Like these pink lace leggings I just found for 1,85 euros. They look way too much 80's Madonna, but when you cut out the gusset and pull them over your leo - instant fun fashion update!



Tips and tricks:
  • Recycle old tights/leggings. Ballet pink or white tights go great under leos for extra coverage & warmth.
  • If you customize your top from new tights, don't spend a lot of money. The fabric will snag anyway.
  • Don't buy the cheapest quality. Microfiber holds better, as does denier above 40.
  • Buy a size (or two) bigger than you would for your legs. Makes for a comfier fit.
  • Leggings come with pre-cut hand openings. ;)
  • Hipster models are no good, they ride too high up on your torso.
  • Necks are easiest to cut when there's a gusset to trace. Turn the tights inside out before you cut.
  • Do not cut the neck like you would a cotton t-shirt. The fabric will stretch like crazy.
  • Be careful when you pull your top over the first time, it will stretch. And it will snag.
  • Hand-wash only.
  • Have fun!

10 comments:

  1. Replies
    1. Simple is best, especially when you're no good with a sewing machine ;)

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  2. Ha I totally do this too. Best thing about them is that when my teacher makes the other girls take off their warm up layers so she can see their bodies, I get to keep these tops on.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We don't have a dress-code, but these tops are great because they don't hide your lines. And they keep you surprisingly warm! Which is why I haven't worn one since last April. But, winter is coming and Finland gets pretty cold, brr...

      Thanks for commenting! :)

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    2. This is BRILLIANT! I have just started back at ballet at age 30 and have been trying to figure out how i was going to supplement my one and only long sleeve leotard this coming winter. Now I know. Thank you for such a clever idea, and for being so inspiring!

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  3. Great idea Johanna :). Have a lovely rest of the week.

    Love from London,

    Nasia

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  4. Johanna I have tray some time make leggins for me before reading this post. But I always cut it wrong. When I follow your instruction then I have sew a great leggins for me .
    Thanks
    ballet workout

    ReplyDelete
  5. whoa this is so ingenious! I'm gonna give it a try :)

    ReplyDelete

To That Special Ballet Teacher

To that special ballet teacher, who not only teaches you about technique, but helps build your confidence, nurtures your inner artist, ...