Darling, oh darling! December has arrived, the festive season is upon us and we’re all feeling a little bit naughty. It’s time to shimmer, to sparkle, and most importantly, to show off our gorgeous costumes.
For me, a dance costume is so much more than just what I wear to perform. It’s a piece of art, a reflection of my soul, and a symbol of my dedication. You wouldn't believe the lengths I go to for a fabulous costume! After all, who hasn't been glued to the internet researching all those incredible hand-sewn tutus by artisans, dreaming about that exquisite embellishment or dreaming up their dream ballerina look? But this season, my love, it’s all about taking inspiration from the global dance world! And you've got to admit, that we've been spoilt rotten by the dazzling displays we've seen, and my, have we seen some beauty!
From the refined elegance of the Royal Ballet to the daring avant-garde creations in Berlin, let's explore what’s hitting the stage this December, darlings!
The Classics Never Go Out Of Style
The Royal Ballet has been absolutely captivating this month, dear, and it’s no wonder when they keep delivering exquisite performances in stunning costumes.
Of course, there’s always a touch of the traditional in their performances. From their magnificent **Giselle** with its quintessential **white tulle** tutues, to **Swan Lake**, that breathtaking **white tutus** and their famous **black swan** costumes! Darling, when I imagine ballet, those iconic costumes spring to mind. A ballerina, bathed in the spotlight, wearing an impeccably white tutus – nothing screams ballerina more than those **bodice** with delicate **sleeves** in a subtle yet oh so feminine ivory that perfectly accentuates the ballerina's form and movements.
Don’t even get me started on **Sleeping Beauty**, the delicate embroidery and embellishment are enough to make a grown woman weep, let alone make a tiny 9-year-old swoon with delight when she steps onto the stage and becomes Aurora! There’s something about the **pink tutus**, it truly takes you back to your childhood, **the sparkle** – oh my, they really go all out for a classical ballerina, don’t they?
But they don’t always rely on the past, darling! Take their rendition of **Romeo and Juliet** for example – what a stunner, that stunning blue satin, flowing gracefully. The perfect combination of elegance, beauty and, dare I say, a touch of drama!
And what would December be without their festive performance of **The Nutcracker**, that breathtaking spectacle that includes their **sugar plum fairies**, the delicate costumes – and I mean absolutely exquisite– are a triumph. It truly does feel like a dream to me!
But Darling, I’ve Found Myself Attracted to…
Modern Ballet - A Whirlwind Of Innovation!
Of course, the classical always holds a place in our hearts, and we need our tradition! However, darling, it's the modern dance world that’s truly been blowing my mind. And it's been so refreshing to see! From intricate **Leotards**, sleek **tights**, and that ever-so modern, super sexy **chiffon skirt**. The use of simple fabric - so elegant yet practical – oh, I’m head over heels for those sleek, slinky numbers.
Let’s head to the modern world now…Berlin
Oh darling, **Berlin**, the dance scene, so exciting and pushing those creative boundaries. We’ve witnessed those dramatic dance routines in a simple black, classic leotards! Just brilliant. I have to give a shout out to their brilliant costume designers – it’s not about the bling bling or excessive use of feather boas. It's about that statement, the choreography! It's absolutely captivating!
One performance, however, that left an imprint on my mind, dear, was a daring showcase by one of Berlin’s up and coming dance companies, I mean this **dramatic, striking costumes** were literally breath-taking. Think, black leotards, adorned with **a single silver stripe**, a symbol of pure beauty. It was this delicate touch of metallic detail, that spoke volumes and created this unexpected sense of rebellion and raw beauty.
There's nothing more captivating than when an artist uses restraint to showcase the human form, you just can’t help but stare at the artistry. Of course, the choreography, well, that's a completely different story!
New York - Don’t Hold Back, Darling!
Speaking of captivating, let's talk about **New York City Ballet** – oh my, where do we even start? Those stunning ensembles always push those creative boundaries with a combination of modern ballet with just a hint of extravagance. Take their version of **The Nutcracker** – wow – just wow! Those costumes, darling – **sparkly bodysuits** combined with shimmering **chiffon skirts**. It’s all about creating an experience. Think modern meets classical, an elegant nod to tradition. They definitely know how to make an entrance!
New York continues to innovate and embrace every color, style, and fabric. You can practically hear the **crunch of ****sequins** as their performers take to the stage. Their designers are certainly not afraid to go all out when creating stunning dance costumes. For them, every stitch counts, dear. The attention to detail is second to none. The **beadwork** and **embroidery** – those glistening threads – simply fabulous.
The use of colour? It's truly mesmerising. You don’t need a massive array of bold and bright shades when you’ve got the likes of those striking **royal blues** – oh the grace! Oh, the glamour! They have this exquisite way of playing with light, shadow, and form. Their approach? Always think big and bold, darling, a complete visual feast!
Parisian Perfection – The Magic Of The Dance
From New York’s bravado we head to the Opèra de Paris. Ah, what can I say about Paris except “chic”? The city of romance always manages to turn its hand to breathtaking and exquisite performance art, and their costumes never fail to be breathtaking and effortlessly beautiful.
This December I found myself glued to the screen for one performance - **“La Bayadère”** . A story of love and heartbreak and a journey through the depths of despair, which took its inspiration from the elegance of Indian dance and fashion. Those iconic **silk and satin costumes**, with the detailed use of gold and a touch of silver – those shimmering fabrics? The use of colour? So elegant – they were like a touch of silk dancing through my screen.
As a true ballet enthusiast, this performance moved me on so many levels. They made a conscious effort to merge traditions with the graceful elegance that embodies French culture. Darling, they don't hold back!
This performance captured that feminine touch. And, darling, as a ballet dancer who knows **a thing or two about what looks good on the stage, these** fringed bodices, sheer skirts, and jeweled embellishments made the dancers glide effortlessly and the movements truly effortlessly gorgeous!
Australia - A Land of Enchantment!
Now, let's head to a completely different continent! Darling, did you know **Australia’s ballet scene** is blossoming with extraordinary talents and their unique take on dance? Think, vibrant costumes that burst with colour – an exciting expression of dance!
Let's chat **The Australian Ballet** for a moment, the costumes are simply divine, that whimsical style of **colour and print**. There’s such **an elegance** about the **flowing chiffon** which just gives it this romantic, ethereal charm and such vibrant, beautiful colours – those vibrant orange and red designs for their version of **“The Sleeping Beauty" ** were a stunning and refreshing change. I was immediately enchanted with those vibrant colours.
They’ve embraced the fusion of modern trends with traditional elements. **What's wonderful about them?** The boldness and vivacity – this touch of playfulness. It’s simply incredible!
I particularly adore those unique **headdresses**. The designers certainly haven’t shied away from showcasing a bolder side. The costumes, an incredible combination of modern and contemporary ballet! Oh darling, it's truly enchanting! And **that creative, adventurous flair**. They dare to be different. A breathtaking mix of classical elegance, with an undercurrent of individuality!
And if there’s one thing to embrace about their take on the ballet scene is that confidence** that seeps from their performers through their **daring choices**. Those incredible bold statements in their choreography? Oh, they are just incredible. Darling, it’s something to behold.
Dance Beyond The Curtain
This December has really been about the big hitters in the world of dance – New York, London, Paris, Berlin. There’s something for every taste. What we're seeing is the dance world as a melting pot of inspiration.
There’s no need to be afraid of going all out when it comes to dressing up. Whether you’re performing at a local amateur dance class, or in front of a packed theater. Embrace what feels comfortable. After all, as a ballerina in her 30s I've found that those simple yet classic pieces can truly capture the magic of dance, it’s a celebration of creativity.
Remember that beautiful black leotard – it’s an iconic piece that every dancer must own! That simple classic black always wins for me. It allows your beauty and grace to shine, like the ballerina on stage, oh my! It makes you feel empowered and that inner strength shine through – let's face it, dancing takes more than beauty, it’s about that commitment to passion.
Just be yourself, my dear. Have some fun and express your unique artistry! It’s your moment, on or off the stage, to create magic.
Oh my darling! The end of the year has flown by. Where’s the time gone? However, it’s always the most exciting time of year and my December wardrobe has been updated – the costumes I’m now eyeing for my new year routine. You simply must explore what works for you! After all, we have to shine!
Wishing you happy and blissful Christmas and a fabulous new year! Happy dancing my darling!
Yours always,
Audrey xxx