Darling! July is upon us and we’re all feeling a little bit more ‘en pointe’ for the ballets that will be showing over the next month. A chance to wow those judges and capture those mesmerized looks. But to really make your mark, your costume must be spectacular. We all know the standard, but what we want to know is what can really set you apart in this ever-competitive, captivating world of ballet.
First off, the leotard: It's got to be classic but modern, showing off those gorgeous lines. Start with the iconic leotard shape. There’s no getting around that iconic cut-out in the back, but the design needs to be updated and modernized for the contemporary stage. The cut must flow perfectly with the lines of the leotard.
- **Think about the colour** : this season the focus is on a soft ivory. I would avoid bright reds. This summer’s leotards must look like soft cream or satin.
- **Add an edgy twist** - let's talk detailing: Now this is where it gets really fun. Think of Swarovski crystal embellishments: they will create just that bit of sparkle. But go for a minimalistic approach - sprinkle them carefully, think clusters or delicate lines rather than an all-over application.
- **It's all about texture** - let's talk about fabrics, a textured fabric really elevates any look, something soft and floaty that shows off your every move but will also have that slightly more rugged, contemporary touch. Imagine delicate chiffon or satin. Or maybe something more modern with some texture and stretch to allow for the contemporary and acrobatic dance styles, but it must have a sleek finish, the movement and line should be paramount, darling!
- **Let's bring in some personality:** This is your leotard, make it your own. Maybe you would love to create a signature look with your leotard to truly bring that personality and confidence. For example a long line or something dramatic.
And now the tutu: We’ve all seen the tutu’s with a fluffy ‘fluffy’ (I don’t know how to describe it - it looks like its had about 10kg of fluff poured on it - and the ‘tutus’ where you don't even see the dancer under it because of all the fabric. This month we’re looking for something much more delicate, with a touch of whimsy. So let's have that traditional tiered skirt, yes darling, but it’s got to have a lightness, it must show off those lovely legs, darling! I’m thinking a light and silky organza or a fine mesh fabric - maybe with just a tiny amount of delicate feather trim at the bottom.
- **Forget the frills** and let those gorgeous legs be the center of attention.
- **Focus on the silhouette.** The tutus must have an organic flow and softness, a perfect blend of delicate femininity and that little bit of something edgy.
- **The colors to choose**: pastels or metallic colours like copper or silver to accentuate the stage lighting and the movement.
- ** The key is movement** . We want a tutu that sways beautifully, like the dancer herself! Let it flow like a gentle summer breeze - light, fluid, and effortlessly beautiful.
I am also loving the delicate tulle fabric from Freya’s Fabrics, which has this lovely silky flow with such soft and airy feel, and Lily’s Laces has some exquisite trimmings for the perfect touches of elegance. If you’re looking for a dramatic, contemporary fabric Silken Stitch on King’s Road London is great for something truly unique - a little pricier darling but definitely the perfect touch. For the ultimate in crystals for a bit of glitter and shine, darling, you must try **Sew-Love’s Crafts & Supplies on Kensington High Street London or go online and have a look at Crystals Unlimited - their selection is divine! Don't be afraid to use colours, darling - think about the dramatic impact you want to have. Just a word about making, please do use a trusted and reliable dressmaker, maybe someone recommended by the Dance School. After all darling you want something perfect and I know you won't want to be fixing your leotard and tutu's just before a big performance - or you're having an emergency run to get your dressmaker to fix something last minute! But most of all remember, darling, that the most essential ingredient of all is confidence. Shine your brightest on stage, make an impact, you’ve got it darling - show them your incredible talent and how stylish and contemporary you really are!