The Perfect November Tutu
Dearest darlings, as the leaves start to turn and the crisp air fills our lungs, it’s time to turn our attention to the quintessential ballet item, the tutu. For November, we’re channeling the romantic hues of autumn and the alluring mystery of twilight, resulting in a tutu design fit for a Parisian salon, a moonlit promenade, or the final moments of Swan Lake.
Materials:
- Tulle: Our chosen fabric is a whisper-soft, semi-sheer tulle from **Dance World** in blush pink and charcoal grey. Two shades for extra drama! Choose the lightest tulle available for maximum movement and airiness.
- Spandex: A delicate yet firm spandex for the bodice. We recommend the nude tone from **Soles and Stripes**. Ensure it has a high elastane content to hold you securely.
- Ribbons: Velvet ribbon, the colour of fallen leaves – rich burgundy and amber hues. Find yours at **The Ribbon Company**, preferably in a high-quality silk blend.
- Crystal embellishments: Let's not forget some shimmer. We're suggesting crystals in two tones: glistening champagne for a vintage feel and sapphire blue for a touch of midnight magic. You can find them at **Crystal Designs**.
- Lace: For that feminine edge, pick a black Chantilly lace trim from **Lacey's**. Look for delicate floral patterns.
- Sewing notions: The usuals, including fine needle, thread to match each fabric, safety pins, and scissors. If you're feeling adventurous, maybe even some hand sewing needles for intricate lace detailing.
Construction:
- For the tutu itself, start with a basic shape – a classic ‘bell’ shape will make a statement. Cut your tulle into rectangles of different lengths, gradually getting longer towards the base for a graduated effect. Now layer and gather each strip onto a waistband created from the spandex. Use an even amount of blush and grey for a lovely two-tone effect.
- For the bodice, we’re aiming for an elegant, fitted look. Craft a fitted bodice from the spandex, keeping the design close to your form and cinching in with velvet ribbons around the waist. These ribbons should be double layered and knotted securely, echoing the style of the 19th century.
- Next, sew the bodice and waistband together seamlessly. Remember, simplicity and sophistication are key.
- Let’s add that final flourish with strategically placed crystals on the bodice and along the bottom layers of the tulle. Use the champagne crystals in a scattering effect around the décolletage and then arrange the sapphires towards the base of the tutu, mimicking a moonlit night sky. The touch of lace along the neckline and sleeves will make a touch of class.
Confidence is key, ladies. This tutu is not just an outfit, it's a testament to our unwavering elegance and artistic prowess. A statement that we will not be overshadowed, whether it's the flickering stage lights or the moon illuminating the winter night sky.