Darlings, it's September! The season is in full swing, and the whispers of the next great tutu design are on everyone's lips. This month, we’re looking for something **utterly original** – something that will cause the seasoned audience member to gasp and the newest prima ballerina to twirl with utter joy. So, where does one begin?
The Essential Items:
- **The Fabric:** For this month, I recommend an **exquisite velvet** - a jewel tone of emerald green perhaps, or a deep, sultry sapphire. You can find an incredible selection at **Liberty Fabrics** in London – a must for any serious design enthusiast. Ensure it's a luxuriously dense velvet – the better the drape, the more dramatic the movement on stage!
- **The Inner Structure:** A simple **tulle** skirt - one of those shimmering tulle nets that makes every dancer's leg seem a mile long. **Debenhams** have a fabulous array for a good price – I swear, I picked up this amazing black tulle there only last month. The perfect accompaniment to any decadent velvet. Remember, a little *something under that velvet* is going to be essential.
- **Embellishment, Darlings!:** Now here's where we get **truly creative!** This month, my eye is drawn to **feather trim**. You can get glorious colours in feather boas from the ***fantastic folks at Etsy**.* Think peacock blues, perhaps a hint of flamingo pink? The key is to use them sparingly, with elegant swathes placed carefully on the bodice or around the edges of the skirt.
- **Accessorize:** Don't forget those delicate *Swarovski crystal accents*. These, dear readers, can be acquired from ***John Lewis**, or any respectable craft store.* Don’t go overboard – less is more. A sprinkling across the feather trims and on the bodice would be simply sublime.
- **The Final Touches:** A tiny tiara - nothing gaudy. Just something small and simple to *complement* the ensemble, rather than steal its limelight. Try the stunning new range at **Accessorize** on Oxford Street – a **small sparkling, gem-toned tiara** is exactly what we need.
A Touch of Theatre:
Once the design is complete, dear readers, it’s not just about the look. **Remember the stage** - how the tutu will move, dance and play with the lighting. A dark sapphire velvet with glistening tulle, touched with just the right amount of iridescent feather will create an unforgettable *magical moment* on stage.
This month's challenge is a captivating one, darling! It's all about finding that balance - between the dramatic and the delicate. I predict many of you will truly **create the new fashion sensation of the year!** I will, of course, be in the front row, clutching my vintage opera glasses, to witness the results, every one. Have fun, darling. Be daring. Let your creativity soar.