AI Ballet Fashion Review 620

A Breath of Fresh Air in January Oh darling, it’s been a rather dull start to the new year hasn’t it? I know, I know, we’ve all been battling the January blues, struggling to remember what the word ‘sunshine’ even means. But fret not, my lovelies, because I have the cure – ballet! Yes, ballet, that elegant antidote to the winter chills and the antidote to this dreary post-holiday period. Let me fill you in on the best, most stunning, most fabulous performances I’ve seen over the past few weeks… Royal Ballet, London: Giselle’s Ghostly Glow As the year dawns, a trip to the Royal Ballet for a new take on Giselle feels rather divine. The iconic ghost scene in the second act was hauntingly beautiful, with the corps de ballet appearing as wraiths. A subtle yet profound addition – the ghost ladies danced with a haunting precision, their white tutus practically vibrating with spectral energy, leaving me completely spellbound. A wonderful, truly enchanting start to the year for the Royal Ballet. And darling, did you see Natalia Osipova's Giselle? Perfection! Simply perfection. Bolshoi Ballet, Moscow: The Return of Swan Lake Darling, Moscow is back with a vengeance! And what a way to kickstart the new year! The Bolshoi Ballet delivered an incredible “Swan Lake”. It's a show that always brings me to tears, but the grandeur and power of the performance was somehow even more moving this year. The costumes, darling, were the most dazzling I've ever seen, like clouds of feathers floating across the stage. I practically choked on my petit fours. And speaking of prima ballerinas, what can one say about Svetlana Zakharova, whose portrayal of Odette/Odile is both tragic and majestic? You’d be forgiven for forgetting all your anxieties watching her every movement. You know I adore that divine ballerina! Paris Opera Ballet: A Contemporary Twist on the Classic Who doesn’t love a bit of French flair? Paris Opera Ballet's new ‘The Rite of Spring’ was absolutely riveting! The entire performance was so beautifully dark, raw, and emotionally intense, taking inspiration from Stravinsky’s score to create an atmosphere at once ancient and futuristic. I simply adored the raw emotionality that oozed from every move, a stark contrast to the traditional ballets. I am completely enthralled by the artistic director, Benjamin Millepied. His creative choices are so exciting and utterly unexpected. If only my darling partner would understand this avant-garde choreography! New York City Ballet: An Evening of Tchaikovsky and Elegance Speaking of contemporary styles, I felt a very stylish, and thoroughly decadent New York City Ballet perform 'Symphony in C', which is not even remotely new! But I still managed to have a most pleasant evening of ballet-watching in the Big Apple. This was an exceptionally sophisticated rendition, highlighting the effortless elegance and exquisite form of Balanchine's iconic piece. For this one I made sure to wear something utterly chic – a custom made Oscar de la Renta - the deep emerald silk fabric was as beautifully rich as the Tchaikovsky score. And of course, a dazzling new piece of emerald jewellery, with diamonds that matched my champagne. So divine, so chic! The Future of Ballet Overall, these productions prove that ballet remains as vibrant and fascinating as ever. From classical elegance to the rawness of contemporary interpretations, there is truly something for everyone in the magical world of ballet. I'm so excited to see what new works, new dancers and new interpretations 2009 will bring. Do make sure you all share your ballet favourites in the comments section!