The November Tutu: Be the Envy of the Stage
Darling, the crisp air of November calls for something utterly divine in the world of dance. This month, we're ditching the dusty pinks and embracing a sleek, sultry silhouette - one that oozes elegance and sophistication. Here's how to create the most sought-after tutu and leotard look that'll have everyone whispering "She's simply divine!"
For the Tutu:We're ditching the fluffy, full-on Romantic tutus for a more modern, almost avant-garde, look. Imagine layers of silk chiffon, rippling with every arabesque, catching the stage lights like glittering fireflies. The key is to make it dramatic, but refined. For the Leotard:
Go sleek and sculptural, dear! Black, in a rich, luxurious stretch fabric - it hugs your every curve but remains effortlessly chic. Imagine a leotard with a plunging back or interesting cutouts, just a whisper of skin that reveals, but doesn't reveal too much. Think power and elegance in perfect balance.
Your Shopping List: * Silk Chiffon: Liberty Fabrics (London) is always my go-to for luxurious silk - look for a rich black or a dramatic plum. (Shop online at libertylondon.com). * Black Lycra: * Barrie's Dancewear: Their 'Elite' Lycra has that perfect amount of stretch and a lustrous sheen that makes you shine under the stage lights. (Visit www.barriesdancewear.co.uk for stockists near you) * The Dance Shop: Look for their 'Contour' fabric - designed for performance and maximum movement freedom. (www.thedancseshop.com for stores in London) * A Black Satin Ribbon: This will be your finishing touch for the tutu, a simple black ribbon that gives that final flourish. (Any good haberdashery store will do). * Needle & Thread: For the tiny alterations. The world is your oyster, dear - be adventurous!Let's Assemble!
The Tutu:- Start by cutting panels of chiffon – think triangles that flow beautifully from the waist, creating a layered effect. (Remember to allow for pleating, and it’s always best to use a sharp rotary cutter to avoid fraying the edges).
- Sew together your layers of chiffon with your sewing machine, securing them carefully to a black stretch-elastic waist band. Experiment with pleats - long, shallow ones create a rippling, airy look.
- Once complete, secure your black satin ribbon just below the waistband as a finishing touch. The simple black against the silk chiffon is striking! The knot, tied to one side, creates a subtle asymmetric look that is both chic and dramatic.
The Leotard:
- Pick your leotard base - black stretch Lycra for a modern look, or a basic leotard if you feel daring enough to use Lycra to cut out interesting details or add paneling for a truly bespoke design. Remember to be adventurous, as details add to the elegance!
- Try adding black stretch fabric details to the shoulders, sides, or back of your chosen base - don’t forget those interesting cut-outs. Use the stretch fabric and sew carefully to form a stunning neckline, cutouts at the shoulder or along the back of the leotard to add that unique twist to your look. This will require the use of a sewing machine. If unsure, try looking for basic sewing tutorials or lessons in your area to achieve the desired result.
And that's it, darling! Now you've created the most captivating tutu and leotard that will leave everyone speechless - you are the ultimate dancing muse!