From the Wardrobe of the Ballerina:
A Global Fashion Guide for July 1997
My darlings, July! Itās positively blooming with possibilities, both on and off the stage. And for a dancer, nothing says ānew beginningsā quite like a dazzling new costume, isn't it? Of course, the thrill of a fresh design, the delicate whisper of silk against bare skinā¦ all that is exquisite, but thereās a real art to costume choice. A costume can make or break a performance. The perfect one elevates you, blends seamlessly with the choreography, and becomes part of your performance - a living extension of your character.
This month, I'm taking you on a global tour of costume trends - from the dazzling diamonds of Paris to the breathtakingly bold beauty of Russia - itās a celebration of the artistry that brings our characters to life. Are you ready? Then let's raise the curtain!
Paris, mon amour:
You just canāt ignore the Parisian panache. And their ballet costumes are no exception! Expect sumptuous fabrics, a symphony of textures, and of course, that undeniably Parisian flair. Think: decadent velvet for the grandest roles, whispers of tulle for ethereal characters, and shimmering lace to add a touch of drama. But elegance never feels ostentatious. In Paris, everything is so perfectly measured, so meticulously curated. A delicate rose in the hair, a single strand of pearls cascading down the backā¦ just enough to hint at the story unfolding onstage.
What I love most about the Parisian style is its commitment to femininity. The cut of the costumes flatters the dancerās form - long, flowing lines, graceful silhouettes, that create an impression of exquisite movement. The overall look? Pure fairytale charm, draped in sophistication. They always get the colours just right - think rich blues, romantic pinks, and soft pastels, which, oh darling, are utterly dreamy!
**Highlights for the season: **
- **The Royal Ballet's new production of Swan Lake** is sure to cause a stir with its gorgeous tutus - traditional in shape but rendered in breathtaking shades of turquoise and teal. - **Les Ballets de Monte Carlo's āLa BayadĆØreā ** is renowned for its gorgeous Indian-inspired costumes. Exquisite fabrics and an intricate gold embellishment create a majestic air and will transport you straight to the opulent courts of Mughal India.
Across the Atlantic:
Now, darling, America has always been known for its boldness, its vibrant energy. So naturally, the ballet costumes reflect this spirit! Here we see a fusion of styles, a playful approach to design. They don't shy away from vibrant hues - the brighter, the better! And modern techniques play a big part - from the introduction of bold graphic designs to innovative cuts that emphasise the dancersā movements, everything is daring and dynamic.
A recent highlight, dear readers? The **American Ballet Theatre's** new interpretation of 'Don Quixote.' Their use of vibrant reds and yellows, alongside flashes of gold and silver, is pure energy, creating a sense of joyous movement. This vibrant palette really adds something special to the choreography! And donāt get me started on their beautiful use of lightweight silks! I am practically *aching* to wear it on stage!
**My top picks: **
- **New York City Ballet's āThe Sleeping Beautyā. **This stunning production utilizes a vibrant spectrum of colours. Think sparkling coral, dazzling emerald, and rich sapphire. All those beautiful jewels inspire some gorgeous looks for our sleeping beauty!
Eastern promise:
Ah, the majesty of Russian balletā¦ From the grand, iconic tutus to the intricate designs - there is nothing quite like a traditional Russian costume! Itās so full of life, such exquisite drama, and utterly captivating in its history.
Traditionally, think bold reds, fiery oranges, and deep sapphire blues - truly a vibrant symphony of color! Fabrics like satin, silk, and velvet make it luxuriously beautiful. Of course, embellishments are key, with beautiful, often elaborate beadwork and intricate patterns. Think sparkling crystals, precious stones, even a sprinkle of genuine diamonds, darlings. The Russian costumes arenāt just worn, they are truly lived in!
**Must-see productions: **
- The **Bolshoi Theatre's 'Swan Lake'** is renowned for its glittering, decadent costumes - think ornate tutus in the purest white, paired with black for the darker swans. The black, you see, is often crafted with the most luxurious fabrics imaginable, creating an exquisite contrast. It is all quite spectacular! - The **Mariinsky Ballet's āGiselleā.** These beautiful costumes really exemplify that iconic Russian look. Expect lush velvet, shimmering sequins, and of course, a crown of braided flowers for Giselle herself - a visual delight that tells a truly beautiful story!
A word on bespoke:
Now, for you real enthusiasts, the world of bespoke dancewear opens up an incredible realm of possibilities! There are so many skilled, talented costumiers in the world - those who truly understand a dancer's needs. My love? Finding a costumier who crafts each piece with an eye to my individual physique - not a cookie cutter, you understand. Someone who knows how to sculpt a tutu to my movements, someone who can craft a costume that flows seamlessly with my every pliĆ©, arabesque, and pirouette. Itās an intimate partnership, dear reader, and such a deeply satisfying one, too!
Let the music play, my darlings:
In a world that often moves too fast, the beauty of a well-chosen costume - in its elegance, its artistry, and its undeniable charisma - truly takes my breath away. As always, my dears, itās not about simply āwearingā the costumes. Itās about embodying them. Allowing the fabric to tell the story, the jewels to shimmer with your passion, and the whole ensemble to become an unforgettable piece of performance art. So remember, my darling readers, find a costume that lets your light shine and take the stage with your very own magic!