Ballet’s sartorial splendour shines in May
My dears, what a month for ballet and fashion! The recent deluge of performances and events has left me utterly enthralled. From the dazzling costumes at the Royal Ballet’s latest production of Giselle to the ethereal gowns adorning the guests at the annual Ballet Gala, May has been a feast for the senses.
Naturally, the tutu reigned supreme, as it always should. This month saw an exquisite array of designs that took our breath away. The classic romantic tutu, with its layers of soft tulle, was a favourite for the ballet performances, creating a beautiful ethereal aura on stage. The intricate detailing on these tutus was simply breathtaking, with intricate lace and shimmering beading, like delicate snow upon a blossom. Then there were the contemporary tutus, with their bold silhouettes and unexpected materials, defying convention and drawing attention to the dancers' dynamic movements.
- A particular favourite of mine was the bespoke creation worn by Prima Ballerina Alexandra Petrova in the final scene of "The Sleeping Beauty". Imagine a symphony of tulle in ivory, delicately layered and cascading down her petite frame. The effect was positively dreamlike. I particularly loved how it was paired with a shimmering bodice and a dramatic feathered headpiece that hinted at the magical elements of the piece. Just exquisite.
- Another striking example was the sleek, modern tutu seen in the final act of "Diana and Actaeon", where a bright and bold cobalt blue stole the spotlight. The designer used simple but powerful lines, framing the dancers' athleticism with a distinct angularity, adding a modern touch to the classic choreography. It certainly had an impact on me and many in the audience, sparking lively conversations during the interval. I overheard one remarkable woman remarking that the modern tutus "captured the power of the dancers' bodies," a powerful compliment indeed.
Beyond the tutu, the attention to detail and artistry on show this month has been nothing short of incredible. From the delicately beaded embellishments on pointe shoes to the meticulously tailored costumes for the male dancers, everything contributed to the sheer artistry and elegance that makes ballet such a captivating form. And of course, we cannot forget the ever-so-fashionable ballroom gowns. With a wide spectrum of colours and fabrics, those guests looked breathtaking, reminiscent of a time when elegant attire was an everyday standard.
As for me, I’ll be dreaming of those glorious tutus and beautiful dresses for months to come, with a renewed appreciation for the beauty and sophistication of ballet and the artistry of its associated fashion.