I remember vividly the first time I stepped into the studio at Ballethnic, where brown tights were the norm, and for the first time, I felt fully seen in the world of ballet. Seeing dancers who looked like me, wearing tights that matched their skin tones, was a powerful and affirming experience. It made me feel at home in my body and in my artistry. Wearing tights that reflected my skin tone wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about belonging and empowerment.
Later on, when I transitioned to a more traditional ballet studio where pink tights were standard, the experience wasn’t negative, just different. Pink tights are deeply rooted in ballet’s tradition, and at that studio, I came to appreciate the history and elegance that they represent. However, I also couldn’t help but feel the contrast between the two experiences. While the pink tights didn’t make me feel excluded, they reminded me of how much representation matters. Wearing them was part of ballet’s classical tradition, but I also recognized that this tradition didn’t fully reflect the diversity of dancers in today’s world.
Both experiences shaped my understanding of ballet and its evolution. At Ballethnic, I was introduced to the idea that dancewear could be inclusive, offering shades for dancers of color. At the more traditional studio, I gained a deeper appreciation for ballet’s classical roots. Together, these experiences underscored the importance of balancing tradition with inclusivity.
The Growing Movement Toward Inclusivity in Ballet
Today, ballet companies and dancewear brands are making strides toward greater inclusivity. For example, Ballet West took a groundbreaking step by allowing dancers of color to wear tights that match their skin tones, moving away from the standard pink. This isn’t just about creating a uniform look—it’s about creating a sense of belonging for all dancers .
Brands like Blendz Apparel and MyNudeShade are offering a wider range of skin tones for dance tights, reflecting the diversity within the dance community. These companies are helping to shift the narrative, allowing dancers to feel seen and celebrated for who they are .
Starting my journey at Ballethnic gave me a sense of confidence that carried me through all my dance experiences. Whether in brown tights or pink, I learned that every dancer deserves to feel at home in their own skin. As the dance world becomes more inclusive, dancers of all shades can feel empowered to bring their full selves to the art.
For those looking to find the right tights for their skin tone, I’ve compiled a helpful guide on my blog, Where to Find Skin Tone Dance Tights for Black and Brown Dancers. It’s a great resource for dancers seeking options that reflect their unique beauty.
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Happy Dancing,
Taylor
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