AI Ballet Review 232

## A World of Tutus: August’s Hottest Looks Darling, let's face it, a ballerina's life isn't just about pirouettes and pliés - it's about fashion, darlings! The costume is practically a second skin, and oh darling, the August 2015 runway is brimming with a bewitching blend of classic elegance and avant-garde chic. I've got my eye on some utterly fabulous creations from around the globe, each with its own story to tell... Let's start with Paris. The City of Lights, as always, is overflowing with sophistication. At the Palais Garnier, the Paris Opera Ballet is currently mesmerising audiences with *Giselle*, and what a dream! Their costumes, impeccably crafted by Christian Lacroix, capture the fairytale romance of the story, with shimmering tulle and delicate beading. The romantic peasant look is a winner, with a whisper of vintage lace adding that ethereal touch. Those floral wreaths, darling, *divine*. It's truly a love letter to bygone elegance. But Paris is also home to bolder fashion. The stunning *Carmen* by the Paris Opera, choreographed by the brilliant Angelica Dell'Acqua, is a fiery feast for the eyes. The dancers' costumes are like walking artworks - think sumptuous crimson and deep velvety hues, all accented by gold jewellery. Those sharp lines, that peekaboo mesh… It's modern, sassy, and perfectly reflects the passionate heart of the piece. Across the Channel, London is also ablaze with a fabulous array of costumes. The Royal Ballet has a rather splendid *Sleeping Beauty* on, darling, with some *very* striking tutus. This time it's the 1946 production designed by Cecil Beaton - a triumph of vibrant colour and sumptuous detailing. Those voluminous skirts and sparkling bodices are absolutely dazzling. They create an ethereal feeling of magic and royalty, but with a hint of playful fun, don't you think? Now, let's whisk over to New York. American Ballet Theatre, the epitome of glamorous Americana, has a spectacular *The Firebird* running now, with costumes designed by the ever-so-talented, the oh-so-wonderful, Maria Bjornson. She's taken the classic story and breathed new life into it with costumes that are a masterpiece of modern artistry. They are ethereal and mystical, using vibrant colours and sleek lines. It's all very dramatic and oh, so effective - really shows off the powerful athleticism of the dancers. Finally, we must venture a little further afield, darling, to the breathtaking Beijing Dance Theatre. They have a production of *The Peony Pavilion*, with amazing costumes that are a true delight. They showcase ancient Chinese aesthetic - a delicate symphony of colours, graceful flowing silk, and the most stunning embroidery. I simply must get my hands on some of that exquisite hand-crafted embellishment! The elegance of the silhouette is perfect, accentuating the grace of the dancers' every move. The piece itself, with its stunning choreography, blends beautifully with these breathtaking garments - true artistry in its finest form! But my darlings, this is just a taste of the many exciting costume choices that await! As we move into Autumn, the world of dance will reveal even more captivating designs. Whether it's the bold minimalism of a contemporary work or the grandeur of a classical ballet, a perfect costume can make or break a performance, and I daresay I can’t wait to see what treasures these innovative designers conjure up for us next. A few final musings, darling: As always, it’s the little details that make all the difference, the subtle tweaks that elevate the whole look. Look out for those delicate feather accents, the unique way a seamstress has manipulated the fabric. A stunning neckline here, a clever silhouette there - these are the details that will set the best looks apart. And of course, the final flourish? A touch of the truly extravagant, like a bejeweled tiara or a cloud of perfectly placed feather boas. Because, darlings, sometimes we just want a little extra sparkle, don’t we? Keep your eyes peeled for my top ten hottest costume looks! This August, we are absolutely in for a fashion extravaganza. The dance world is our oyster, and it’s time for us to dive right in! Don’t forget to pick up a copy of *Ballet Belle* next month to see all the latest runway hits! Until then, keep on swirling!