AI Ballet Review 210

## The En Pointe Edit: October's Must-Have Ballet Costumes Darling, it’s October! The air has a crispness to it, and I’m already dreaming of cozy evenings at the ballet. Speaking of which, let’s dive into what the leading ladies around the world will be twirling in this season. The Classics Reimagined I always find myself drawn back to the timeless elegance of a classic tutu. But this season, designers are injecting a modern touch with unexpected silhouettes and textures. * **The Royal Opera House, London**: They’ve taken a traditional *Romantic* style and embellished it with the most exquisite beadwork. I’m thinking "Giselle" but with a glamorous edge, all flowing tulle and shimmering sequins. * **New York City Ballet:** Their costumes are so modern and clean. A classic pointe shoe but paired with minimalist *saut-de-basse* designs for a streamlined aesthetic. * **Paris Opera Ballet:** These ballerinas are known for their impeccable style. This season, expect to see sleek, architectural designs in shimmering fabrics. It's a touch of the futuristic, paired with the grace of traditional *bourrée* movements. The Colour Palette Colour this season is all about expressing individuality. Forget the pale pastels, darlings. * **American Ballet Theatre:** They’ve really embraced a strong, saturated palette. Imagine deep emerald green for a dramatic *fouetté*, or crimson red to command attention. * **Moscow Ballet:** They are keeping things more traditional but using jewel tones. A classic *grand jeté* never looked so regal in sapphire or topaz. * **Australian Ballet:** We’re seeing pops of colour mixed with sleek silhouettes, like a shocking pink tutu paired with a *pa-de-deux* in a stunning silver fabric. It’s like they're letting loose after years of sticking to beige and blush! Embellishing The Dream This year's costumes are all about detailing that truly elevates a dancer’s presence. * **San Francisco Ballet:** Think statement jewellery, but for the stage. Gorgeous necklines, sparkling bra straps, and accents that mimic nature – think delicate leaves or intricate flowers crafted from rhinestones. * **The Bolshoi Ballet:** Their costumes are legendary for their exquisite embroidery. Imagine elaborate, cascading tutus, like intricate tapestries in movement. * **The National Ballet of Canada:** Their dancers look simply radiant with their meticulous, handmade details. You’ll be looking for the delicate, almost-invisible lace accents and the iridescent beading that glistens like moonlit dew. For The Curious Ballerina: A Look Behind the Scenes As a dancer, I can’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship that goes into these breathtaking costumes. * **Ballet costume makers are real artists**: They are meticulous in their attention to detail. Each piece, from the tiniest sequin to the flowing tulle, contributes to the artistry on stage. * **Every costume is handmade, often by individuals**: This gives every piece a unique charm. Each stitch, each bead is a testament to the craftsman’s dedication. * **These artists are an important part of the ballet world**: They’re the unsung heroes who create the beauty that makes the art form truly unforgettable. Our Picks For The "Must-Have" Items A ballerina's wardrobe isn't complete without a few must-have pieces that can take you from the studio to the stage and everywhere in between. Here are my favourites this season: * **A Classic Leotard**: I adore a timeless, versatile leotard in black or navy. It's the ultimate *must-have* for every dancer. * **A Shimmering Skirt**: For a pop of glamour, look no further than a beautiful, flowy chiffon skirt. This piece will transform any outfit for a special occasion. * **The *Grand Jeté* Wrap**: When you're not on stage, you'll want a cozy wrap to shield your ballerina muscles from the cold. Choose one that is drapey and elegantly chic. * **The *En Pointe* Heels**: Let's face it, darlings. Even we ballerinas have to wear heels sometimes! Invest in a comfortable, chic pair that doesn't sacrifice comfort. The "En Pointe" Guide: Where To Shop For those of you who are looking for your own ballet-inspired wardrobe, I always recommend checking out the designers who are creating innovative and elegant pieces. Here are a few of my favourite stores: * **Ballet Beautiful**: Known for their beautiful, comfortable wear designed specifically for the dancer’s physique. * **Danzart**: A brand that caters to dancers, offering both casual wear and stylish stagewear. * **La Bella Dancewear**: They carry an incredible selection of dancewear, from shoes and leotards to accessories, all at a range of prices. * **Lorna Jane**: Known for their performance-based athletic wear. They offer chic leggings, tops, and accessories that can work just as well in the studio as they do in the city. The Verdict This season is all about expressing our individuality while embracing the timeless grace of the art form we all adore. The costumes are more elaborate, more dynamic, and more reflective of the stories they tell. The stage is a canvas for these artistic masterpieces. And so are we, darlings! So go forth and twirl!