Darling, I simply must tell you all about the divine shows I've been catching around the globe this month! Let me paint a picture of sheer artistic genius, of ballets that set my heart aflutter and leave me swooning like a debutante at her first ball. The Royal Ballet - London * The Royal Ballet in London was simply divine this month. You wouldn't believe the sheer perfection of their "Swan Lake"! My darlings, the corps de ballet, each swan-like in her own right, took my breath away with their feathered grace. Their execution was nothing short of perfection, making me wonder how these women remain so buoyant - almost like they're levitating! Darling, the Swan Queen, a woman who simply can't be named, is utterly mesmerising. A vision in white tulle and a poignant interpretation that simply leaves you speechless! **New York City Ballet - The Big Apple** * As for New York City Ballet - they took their season to another level, you know, darling. That new work by Jerome Robbins, oh my! I was transfixed, as always. His choreography is always an explosion of emotions and simply *fabulous* storytelling. And the dancers... divine! My favourite was a newcomer, a girl called Serena - she's a force to be reckoned with, darling. Her leaps are like soaring birds and her extensions simply defy gravity. It's as if her body were made of rubber, just incredibly fluid and impossibly graceful. Her beauty, let's just say, would make the very most refined Parisian blush. **Paris Opera Ballet - A Touch of Gallic Flair** * And speaking of Paris, darlings, did I mention I saw a new production of "La Sylphide"? Now this is where my true love for classical ballet resides. Such delicate moves, such impeccable technique, oh, the elegance! This is art, dear, pure art. The ballerinas in the corps de ballet... all perfectly coordinated, creating a symphony of fluttering silk and movement. Their pirouettes, a marvel, and that signature French style of effortless chic in every move - *magnifique*! Modern Masterpieces** * Of course, the month would not be complete without experiencing some avant-garde brilliance. Oh my dear, you simply must witness this company called "Batsheva". They perform barefoot, and with incredible abandon and expressive freedom. My dears, I've never seen such unbridled passion poured into dance! Imagine, a tapestry of raw emotion in movement - simply mind-boggling, absolutely mind-boggling. It made me wonder, "Is this truly a ballet? Does it need the formality, the rules and the frills?" Yet, in this supposed 'roughness', there's a profound sense of honesty and freedom, a sheer unadulterated truth that left me breathless and profoundly moved. **From the Stage to the Gallery** * Darling, I'm always fascinated by the interplay between the stage and the gallery. This month I had the exquisite pleasure of seeing a new exhibition dedicated to Edgar Degas, that captivating artist who was so enamoured with ballerinas. He captured them with an almost scandalous intimacy, a realism so raw and unflinching. You feel their raw energy, their fierce concentration and dedication. Just as dancers strive for beauty on stage, he portrayed it through brushstrokes and line, leaving me pondering the enduring allure of dancers and art, oh my! **The Ballet Fashion Report** * Now, no discussion on dance, particularly ballet, would be complete without touching on the glorious world of ballet attire. It's more than mere costumes, it's art, dear, art in its own right. I adore a traditional tutus, with their layers and layers of tulle. Those beautiful, feminine lines that evoke a dreamlike aura of lightness. I saw a new designer named Anya create exquisite pieces in exquisite shades of blush pink and lavender that had me captivated. They were not only impeccably cut and flawlessly fitted, but radiated an aura of classic romance and a delicate touch of whimsicality. They truly were haute couture pieces made for a heavenly stage! And the gentlemen! Their sleek and sculpted physique accentuated by simple, beautifully tailored designs by that rising star in London, Oliver. From the Runway to the Ballet Studio** * Even though you may be feeling, as we all do darling, a slight "off-season" as the autumn days get colder, don't worry. Don't think of the upcoming months as a decline in excitement or style. You need only look at the Fall runways and you will discover the next inspiration in your dance wardrobes. As Chanel declared, the "New Black" for this season is the perfect navy. Dark but incredibly chic - an undeniably alluring shade with enough elegance to carry it into your daily wardrobe and right to the ballet studio. Don't be afraid of mixing classic black with this season's Navy blue. Imagine those rich velvet wraps, or sleek leather jackets in a vibrant sapphire, adding a striking, contemporary element to the iconic ballet-chic silhouette! **My Inspiration: "A Dance Through the Centuries"** * There’s something magical about ballet. This month I've felt completely enveloped in the world of dance, a world where history comes alive through grace and form, where even the simplest gesture can communicate profound emotion. So as you embark on your autumn adventures, whether you're gracing the stage, exploring a new gallery, or even indulging in the simple elegance of ballet fashion, remember my mantra: dance, as always, darling, with passion and elegance. May this season find you full of grace and brilliance!
