There are several types of ballerina skirt, but not all of them are worn by ballerinas. The dancers' version is a long skirt, typically made out of several loose layers of fabric or tulle. The term "ballerina skirt" is also used by the fashion industry to designate a type of miniskirt that is made out of layers of tulle. Since this type of skirt is often cut to fit close to the body and has a short hemline, it's worn more often to cocktail parties than to dance in.
Many styles of skirt have been used by ballet dancers throughout history. Inside the dance studio, a "ballerina skirt" is more often referred to as a juliet skirt or romantic skirt. This distinguishes it from several other styles, which are all made with tulle, but differ from one another in length and layering.
The stereotypical ballerina's outfit more usually includes a tutu, which is supported with fabric or wire so that the tulle stands out stiffly around the dancer's waist. The juliet style is more flowing and covers the legs, emphasizing the dancer's movements. Ballerina skirts in this flowing style can usually be much longer than is worn for fashion's sake, coming down past the knees or to the ankles.
Ballerina skirts became popular outside of the dance studio in the 1950s. Women's styles in this era were very feminine and decorative, with an emphasis on a narrow waist. The contrast of a full, flowing skirt and a tight bodice, such as the ballerina skirt dress, emphasized this look.
Bridget Bardot, a 1950s actress who created the "sex kitten" look, is credited with making the ballerina skirt popular. Perhaps the best known modern day incarnation of the ballerina skirt was that worn by the character Carrie Bradshaw during the opening credits of the TV show "Sex and the City." Carrie (played by actress Sarah Jessica Parker) was shown running down a sidewalk in New York City, only to have her short tulle skirt splashed with water by a passing bus.
Making a ballerina skirt is a sewing project that does not require a lot of skill. In many cases, it merely involves basting several yards of folded tulle to a ribbon, which is then tied around the waist. The simplicity of the ballerina skirt pattern allows it to be altered for many different purposes, from a child's dress-up costume to a Halloween outfit for your pet.