Dearest darlings, the July air is already abuzz with the exciting thrum of a new season! Are you ready to embrace the sunshine with your own utterly captivating new ballet looks? We are, dears, and we're going to be taking inspiration from the sublime – no less than **our** Michel Fokine, darling! We all remember that magnificent *Schéhérazade* from 1910, its sumptuous orientalist imagery perfectly translating onto the body. This month, it's all about** that* look, **the** exotic and romantic!
You’ll need, my loves:
- A luscious, richly textured fabric in sumptuous jewel tones, a peacock blue or ruby red that screams extravagance, **absolutely no boring old pink this month** darlings. Try a double georgette or an opulent silk velvet for the ultimate dramatic touch. **Be bold and stand out!**
*Suppliers: The silk section of Liberty’s is my personal heaven, dears, or try Sew-Fit Fabrics, they have everything! - **Embellishments that shimmer and enchant**! It's about making your dance wear a luxurious accessory. Imagine sequins, my pet, but not just any sequins, oh no. Go for rich metallic tones – shimmering golds, glowing sapphires, or decadent emerald green. Be **generous with your sequins,** but please ensure they don’t detract from your delicate form. Less is more in terms of placement! Remember that glorious dancer's line, darling, keep that movement unhindered.
*Suppliers: There's always Sew & Save for sequins, but, honestly, my dear, I love to search for little vintage beading shops on those charming side streets. The possibilities are endless, and you can really find some real treasures. * - **Feather accents!** Yes, darlings! Nothing gives a look **a hint of opulence and romanticism like a touch of feather** – I recommend long ostrich or peacock feathers, either subtly attached around the bodice for a whimsical touch or cascading down the back of the tutu like a dreamy veil. Don’t be shy about them – you want to evoke a touch of a magic carpet!
*Suppliers: Feather World in central London is truly fabulous, but remember my pet, always wash those feathers before you touch them near fabric as those things **are ** dusty! *
- **Your tutu shape.** Choose a graceful and flowing Romantic tutu. Not a stiff or severe Romantic, my dear, no no no. One with a dreamy, slightly uneven tiered effect, *the * **most essential look**. Don’t overthink it darling, a beautifully constructed Romantic tutu will have its own inherent beauty.
*Suppliers: Freed of London is a sure-fire winner here and they have wonderful, dedicated and knowledgeable staff – but try smaller specialist makers like Atelier De Danse for real luxury. * - **And your Leotard.** Now, now, this is not the moment for some little sporty item darling! Keep it simple. Go for a body hugging stretch fabric, in black, navy or perhaps a daring burnt orange, *that * *will * give a contrast and show off the dramatic beauty of your sequined design!
*Suppliers: You really can't go wrong with Wear Moi for quality, but for true classic shapes look at Danskin, their fabrics really last!
You will need a **lot of sewing and embroidery skill, dears, to get it *right*. **Don’t **try this unless you have some experience, darling!** Let your seams flow softly. A stiff line does not flatter you. Think **curves, and lots of curves,** in the right place! Now my darlings, once you've chosen your pieces, go forth, and be bold, embrace the elegance and the magic of that grand dance. Make the summer air shimmer with your own *Schéhérazade* flair! Until next month darlings, and never forget… there’s no dancing without beauty!