Well, darling, it's Valentine's Day and I simply *must* get my thoughts out on something I've been pondering: the state of ballet tutus. I know, I know, a daring subject for such a romantic day. But hold your horses! It's all about a matter of sartorial elegance. Ahem, let's get down to it.
We all love a good tutu, right? A whirl of tulle that takes us back to our dreams of swirling around in our own little ballet world. But frankly, dears, sometimes, there's simply *too* much tulle.
Look, I'm not going to say the *little* ballerinas haven't got a good thing going. I mean, come on, white fluffy cloud dresses – I'm practically weeping with joy just thinking about it. They *do* need a whole lotta skirt to cover the pirouette-a-thon they unleash on us in class, or, you know, when they *actually* perform! But darling, what happens when we hit the big leagues? Do we need that much *fabric* for our performance?
Think about it. A *massive* confection of tulle on a girl twirling around *could* be overwhelming. I know what I like to see – a sleek silhouette with enough fabric for the artistry to *really* pop, but enough space to see the amazing athleticism, those pointe shoes slicing the air and defying gravity like they’re at the Met Gala, *not* at a Disney production! A little bit of white, pink, or maybe, *heaven forbid*, a bit of a pattern - *but* just enough to set it off, not bury it in a mountain of…*tulle*.
My own sartorial taste tells me there’s something so romantic about a *subtle* amount of tutu – maybe a short and sweet version in pale pink, with some delicate beading. That's what gets my pulse racing. Or, maybe, just a sliver of white at the edge of a leotard – so chic! It's *sophisticated*. A ballet tutu that doesn’t scream "I'M HERE FOR THE TUTU", but "I'M HERE FOR THE *ART*".
I'm just saying, dear reader, we've gotta have some *real* consideration about the state of the tutu. The whole point is *not* just to *show* a mountain of fabric – it's about art, you see? About creating the illusion of something beautiful, *almost* *impossible*. Don't bury that artistry under an excessive, overflowing ocean of *frill* and *frou*.
This brings me to the *leotard*, of course! What’s a *real* dancer to do with those? I can only weep in despair and offer this *much* needed advice…
I think I’ve cracked the leotard code
- First, it *must* be stretchy and supportive, you want something that moves *with* you, not against you.
- But it also has to *breathe*, especially if you're training, the last thing you need is *sweat* and *chafing* to spoil the flow!
- For my *dearest* dancing lovelies, there is nothing more exciting than a leotard with *detail*. That might be some delicate straps that accentuate the *shoulders*, a flash of a little color at the bottom, or a tiny cut-out at the back, just *so* much *fun*!
- If you want *drama*, it *must* be *all* about a contrasting design, maybe a geometric pattern, or a *striking* colour, *against* the rest of your attire – it is all about contrast, dears.
- Let's talk about colour for a moment. For a leotard, *always* go for a deep shade - navy blue is simply *fabulous*, even burgundy works a treat. Something bold, yet classic.
- Lastly, remember: *comfort* comes first. Your leotard needs to hug you *perfectly* – that *means* making sure you’re picking the *right* size – nothing is less stylish or, quite frankly, flattering than a leotard that *rides* *up* – don't go getting your tights caught in it!
And what’s a ballet leotard without *ballet tights*? Well, this Valentine’s Day I've also been ruminating about these little treasures. I love tights, darlings! I love their delicate *hug*, the *silky* feel of nylon… it all makes me so happy.
Tights that speak to me:
- For an extra-special performance, why not opt for some *super*-sheer? I know what I'm talking about - nothing makes a leg look better than a pair of sheer tights. Let those muscles shine.
- I *must* mention, nothing gives you that little bit of confidence like a good foot in the dance world. Now, if you want a *beautiful* look that enhances a strong, dancer's leg, try ballet shoes with *pointed* toes! The effect is simply dazzling! And with those ballet tights, I can't imagine a better foot. But when you are training in the studio, go for something supportive that protects those little toes - and please, dear reader, *do* try a nude colour.
Valentine’s Day has inspired me, you see! Not just to give out *chocolate* – although that is *always* welcome! - but to celebrate these delightful dance-wear items that really elevate the sport, and help make that ballet magic so much *more* enchanting. A truly chic approach to a glamorous and dynamic art.
As I write, the last little notes from the studio fade into the night. I’m just *off* to watch the kids in class - that glorious little tutu, a soft glow emanating from the barre. In my own dance wardrobe I see nothing *but* potential. Pink tutus and black leotards - *my* favourites, all awaiting a *perfect* moment to step into the spotlight.