Leotard Lovelies

This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.

The New York Sun

A new line of workout wear inspired by George Balanchine’s “leotard ballets” can keep even a beginning dancer dressed like the pros. The leotards – created by the Gaynor Minden company, which is best known for its innovative pointe shoes – come in four varieties, inspired by the master choreographer’s neoclassical ballets “The Four Temperaments,” “Apollo,” “Stravinsky Violin Concerto,” and “Agon.”


When these works are danced by New York City Ballet or other companies, the ballerina’s costume consists only of a leotard and tights. The leotards are simple, but they each have slightly different details – as do these cotton-Lycra versions, designed for repeated wear and regular washings. For the black leotard inspired by “The Four Temperaments,” the neckline is square, but for “Agon,” there is a V-neck; both feature a thin black belt at the true waist. The “Stravinsky Violin Concerto” leotard is black with a small skirt and spaghetti straps. The “Apollo” leotard is the only one in white and features a sheer white skirt.


Wearing these may be the easiest (and only) way to feel like a Balanchine dancer – even if you only prance around your living room.



(Available online at www.dancer.com. Each design is $39.)


The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use