Darling, it’s February and you know what that means? Love is in the air! And while Cupid may be aiming for our hearts, my heart is set on crafting the most fabulous tutu or leotard that’ll have everyone whispering, ‘Did you see *her*?’.
This month’s inspiration? Oh darling, the iconic Audrey Hepburn. Her style is timeless and elegant, and perfect for bringing a touch of sophistication to your dancewear.
Let’s get started!For the tutu, we’ll be aiming for a classic, romantic silhouette. Think layers upon layers of soft, delicate tulle, shimmering with elegance. To start, you'll need:
- At least 10 yards of ivory tulle - (try ‘Dance & Beyond’ for exquisite, light-as-a-feather tulle).
- A soft, white leotard with a classic round neckline - (my absolute favourite: ‘Freya’s Dancewear’ has a wonderful selection.)
- A satin ribbon, wide enough to make a beautiful bow, in ivory or blush pink - (check out ‘The Fabric Shop’ for an exquisite choice)
- A few tiny, glittering rhinestones - (look for them in your local craft shop or order them online from ‘Etsy’ for endless creative possibilities.)
Once you’ve gathered your supplies, the next step is to cut the tulle into long strips and layer them to create the beautiful fullness of the skirt. Make sure you alternate the layers slightly to create a visually appealing cascade. And don't forget, a touch of glitz goes a long way! Sew a few sparkling rhinestones strategically across the leotard or even on the ribbon, for a touch of undeniable sparkle.
Now for the leotard, we’re going for a chic and simple silhouette. For that Audrey Hepburn charm, think elegant lines and understated elegance. This is the perfect piece to be both classic and daring at the same time.
- A sleek, black leotard, preferably with a low scoop neckline - (‘Bloch Dancewear’ is the epitome of timeless elegance).
- A satin ribbon, preferably black or a rich, ruby red, in a delicate thickness - (‘The Ribbon & Stitch’ will help you find the perfect ribbon).
- A single, dramatic earring, either pearl or diamond shaped - (I always say, a woman can never have too many earrings, so head over to ‘Aspinal of London’ for an eye-catching find).
The trick to achieving that Audrey Hepburn effect is in the simplicity of the leotard. You need nothing more than an elegant neckline and a sleek design, and of course, that touch of classic femininity. You can either tie the ribbon around your neck or your waist for a simple and sophisticated statement. Add a beautiful and timeless earring to enhance that sleek look.
Darling, with these designs, you are not simply stepping into the spotlight, you are taking center stage! Don’t forget, confidence is your greatest asset. Now, let’s take the dance world by storm.