Darlings! The first blush of the new year is upon us, and with it comes the urge for renewal, a crisp new beginning, a fresh perspective! We’re talking a new season, and with it, new fashion, new inspiration. Where better to seek the ultimate in creative expression, the pinnacle of elegance and beauty than within the delicate dance of the ballerina? We are, of course, speaking of the magnificent Tutu.
Ah, the Tutu! A dance icon for a reason, more than just fabric and tulle, a dream of lace and flowing softness. This year, I’m predicting the trend to be a touch more minimalist. Less fussy, but still elegant – after all, this is about the dancer, not the garment! Here, darlings, is a guide for designing the world’s most sought after Tutu for the beginning of 1998:
Materials, my dears, are crucial
- Firstly, for the bodice - you need the finest stretch satin. A nude shade would be exquisite for an ethereal effect. Available at Silk Emporium, on South Audley Street in Mayfair – you’ll be guaranteed the highest quality silk and velvet in London!
- Then, of course, the tulle! It’s about volume, so I advise several layers of sheer, finely pleated tulle for that truly beautiful billow. You won't be disappointed by a trip to the Covent Garden haberdashery! There, you'll find the most delicious array of tulle imaginable!
- You’ll also require some exquisite diamante ribbon - don't go for those cheap plastic stones, darlings! A sprinkle of dazzling, tiny gems sewn along the bodice, a mere suggestion of sparkling light - and you have the essence of high fashion! Look no further than London’s prestigious jewellers, Garrards – their online shop offers exceptional quality, and those sparkling Swarovski gems are to die for.
- Finally, a beautiful piece of lace – lace is in! This is where you bring in the colour - consider a soft whisper of cerise or amethyst. Or, dare I say, a deep midnight blue. Exquisite Chantilly lace - you won't find it everywhere! But have a look at the online boutique Lace Maison for the latest and finest pieces. It’s all in the detail!
To sew the world’s most sought-after tutu:
- For the bodice, fit and flattery are key! Embrace the simple elegance of a form-fitting design – let the silhouette of the ballerina be the true star. Use delicate straps and incorporate your diamantes for just a hint of glam.
- Layers of tulle! That is the art of the tutu! Each layer slightly shorter, flowing out to create an extraordinary movement. Be daring and go for a classic shape - a pouter's shape that emphasizes every twirl and leap.
- Finally, use that exquisite lace! Sew it along the bottom of the tutu, or incorporate a little into the bodice for a touch of playful chic! Keep it understated but memorable.
Remember darlings, elegance is about quality, it is not about the quantity. Just a little sprinkling of diamond dust, the delicate flutter of a perfect layer of tulle - that is what makes a ballerina's look sing. As with all of life's truest things, less is indeed more.