Leotard Style 547

Leotard Fashion in Oxford Hey lovelies! It’s your girl, Amelia here, back with another style news piece. Today I’m getting my inner ballerina on (cue the pirouettes) to give you the lowdown on leotards. You heard me right - leotards. I know what you’re thinking, “Leotards? Surely those are just for gym class or ballet rehearsals.” Well, I’m here to tell you, those days are over. Leotards are officially having a moment and making a major comeback on the fashion scene. These little numbers are anything but boring and they can work with almost any aesthetic – whether it's sleek and minimalist or playful and bold. But let's be real, Oxford isn’t exactly known for being the centre of edgy fashion trends. So when it comes to nailing leotard style in our university city, it’s all about finding the right balance between feeling empowered and staying true to your individual style. Let me be your personal style guide on how to rock this classic yet versatile piece in the cobbled streets of Oxford. Where to Shop Forget scouring online fashion behemoths, my loves. Let's go on an exploration of Oxford’s hidden treasures! - The Ballet Shop, St. Giles': This is a godsend for all things ballet. Their selection of leotards is absolutely divine, featuring a wide range of colours, styles and cuts, and you’ll always find something to compliment your aesthetic, from elegant blacks and sleek grey’s to brighter pops of pink and purple. They’re super helpful and knowledgeable and can help you choose the perfect fit. - Freemans, Magdalen Street: Yes, it's a department store, but I swear by the sportswear section in Freeman's! You’ll find high quality basics at decent prices - and sometimes, hidden amongst the vests and sweatpants, they have the most stylish leotards that I wouldn’t have thought to look for. The prices are brilliant, so definitely head over if you're on a budget. - Beyond Retro, Cowley Road: This is my personal fave. It’s a vintage heaven and if you're looking for something truly unique - think 90’s mesh and stretchy fabrics with quirky embellishments – this is where it's at. Beyond Retro’s got some hidden gems waiting for you, so it's the ultimate place for some fun fashion discoveries. And the best part? You’ll score a real bargain! Leotard Styles to Look Out For No longer are we stuck with just the classic, ballerina-style leotard. There’s an abundance of modern styles hitting the scene. - **High neck and Long-sleeved:** These offer a chic and sporty look. The high neckline adds a sleek, elegant edge. Opt for a long-sleeved version for a statement and for a little warmth during chilly Oxford evenings. It's a fab choice for creating a graceful and sophisticated outfit. - **Strappy and Mesh:** We’re embracing the ‘balletcore’ vibe this year. You can create an ethereal look with the addition of tulle skirts (the more volume, the better) or simply let the mesh paneling stand out in a playful fashion. Think black strappy leotard with contrasting nude mesh - so chic! How to Style Your Leotard - **The Classic Combination:** Team your leotard with some stylish trousers or leggings for an edgy twist. Whether you're going for sleek and tailored with straight-leg trousers or embracing athleisure in some super comfy leggings, your leotard will add a touch of drama and playfulness to any look. - **The Bold Move:** Wear it with a bold skirt. Whether you go for a denim mini skirt, or a tiered midi, a leotard adds an elegant contrast. Embrace the colour clash, or stay minimal for a simple chic style. Just imagine – a simple black leotard, with a floral-printed midi skirt for a stunning combination. Think pastels and pops of bright colours – so pretty. - **Layer It Up:** I absolutely love a bit of layering. Take your look up a notch with an oversized blazer. This adds a layer of sophistication, plus it’s perfect for transitioning from the campus to drinks at a bar! Just add some statement jewelry – maybe some layered necklaces for extra flair! - **Embrace the '90s Vibe':** Slip on a slip dress over a long-sleeved leotard - an edgy twist on the classic combo. It's ideal for a night out, a house party or a night at the cinema, adding a playful touch. - **Go For It!:** You can also ditch the usual trousers or skirts altogether and rock your leotard as a solo act. Team with a fabulous pair of heels and some stunning statement jewelry for a standout outfit. Go all out with an ethereal tutu skirt or pair with a tailored A-line for something that’s ultra chic, plus a touch of edgy elegance. This is where you can channel the real “leotard fashion”. Don’t forget about Accessories! I've always said a good outfit deserves an equally awesome accessory – so don’t shy away from statement jewelry to give your look that final flourish. A few tips: - ** Statement Jewelry:** This can really bring your look together! A chain choker can enhance the boldness of a black leotard, and some playful earrings will work perfectly for a bolder mesh and strappy design. - ** A Stylish Bag:** A compact handbag, a mini chain bag or even a backpack can add a touch of sleek elegance to your leotard. - ** Trendy Headwear:** This is definitely something I love doing. If the weather is right, a chic hat will really give your leotard outfit that extra edge! It can help make an ordinary outfit super statement! Oxford Style Inspiration Ok so where can we spot leotard fashion on the streets of Oxford? Here’s my inside track: - **A Night at the Theatre:** It’s the place to spot ballerinas out and about - and often in leotard chic style! Catch the show then go straight for dinner and drinks – leotard chic, it’s the thing to do! - **The Art Scene:** Oxford’s arts and culture scene is always vibrant! It's a place for style expression. See who rocks the leotard chic look in a bold way at Oxford’s numerous museums, art galleries and cultural spaces. This is a really fabulous opportunity for unique leotard styling! - **Coffee Shops Around Jericho and Summertown:** Look for chic students rocking the leotard as an elegant outfit. The classic pairing of leotard and leggings or a long skirt always looks good – and adds a subtle sporty chic edge! Leotards are more than just dancewear; they’re a fashion statement. This is the year for embracing this piece of fashion and having fun with your style. I want to see you rocking your leotard with confidence. And don’t forget, this isn't just a passing trend - it's about being comfortable in your own skin, and expressing yourself. You got this! And remember, #leotardstyle and #leotardfashion are trending now, so be sure to capture your unique look on Insta!