Darling, August is the month for blossoming. The heat brings out our best and our tutus just have to be fabulous! The best way to create a sensation this month is a combination of sheer chiffon, soft tulle, and a touch of embellishment.
**First, let's talk about the fabric:**
- Get your hands on some exquisite silk chiffon in a delicious pastel color. Pale pinks, lavender, or buttery yellow – think soft hues for summery warmth.
- To add texture, we'll use tulle! Choose a delicate, high-quality tulle with a slightly stiff hand. Remember, darling, the perfect tulle will hold its shape, creating an airy yet dramatic look. A dusky shade of peach or apricot would complement the chiffon beautifully.
**Let's construct a dream tutu!**
- For this month's style, we are making a layered tutu with soft chiffon and then layers of tulle that cascade beautifully down your legs. I’d suggest you cut about 20-30 circular pieces of both the chiffon and the tulle and have a good-quality sewing machine or use a reliable seamstress (perhaps someone you know, they will make sure you are looking divine!).
- Start with the chiffon – creating two layers, and then attach layers of the tulle to this creating a beautiful cloud of femininity. Use a gentle zig-zag stitch and tie it to the fabric and tulle together. The lightness of this chiffon will add a breath-taking fluidity.
- Now, for a touch of glam, why not add a scattering of tiny, sparkling beads around the tutu? Think dainty crystals, or perhaps small, shimmering sequins. Remember, less is more.
- And for an extra dash of elegance, attach a long silk ribbon in a contrasting colour (a vibrant turquoise or a shimmering emerald would be perfect). This creates a beautiful trail that adds an extra touch of drama!
**Where to buy everything you need**
- **Fabric:** Fabric wholesalers are a godsend for beautiful silk and tulle, and are a wonderful place to find your fabrics. Just do some searching online and you’ll be sure to find them. Alternatively, head to John Lewis for stunning fabrics (they also do alterations, so very helpful if you aren't the most skillful sewer in the world). If you’re based in London you can pop down to a Fabric Shop in Tottenham Court Road – such a riot of colour and fabric. I swear, they have fabric to cover every mood.
- **Sequins and Beads:** Search online or look out for crafting shops, like Hobbycraft or local, smaller stores (these can be a lovely treasure trove!) for sequins, beading and all the bits and pieces you need.
- **Ribbons:** Every good haberdashery store should have the perfect selection! I also love Liberty of London for special ribbons.
**To complete this look**
Let's now talk about the Leotard! This will need to compliment your tulle design. If your tutu has a hint of yellow, consider a nude or ivory leotard in silk or a light, stretchy material.
You could also go for a dark-coloured, silk leotard and have a very elegant colour contrast - which could look absolutely divine.
This will be a dream look to finish a performance - or even for some fun in a class. So put those sewing skills to work darling, and make the most of this fabulous month, filled with beauty and dancing.