Darling, it’s the start of a brand new millennium! With the excitement of the New Year upon us, we all need a refresh – a touch of joie de vivre in our wardrobe! Of course, I’m talking about our balletwear, the first touch of brilliance in our performances. Now, there are those who go for a classic look - perfectly fine, but my darlings, we need something *different* to wow the audiences.
I’m going for an opulent and yet sophisticated touch this year. Picture shimmering tulle with the elegance of black swan, but with an almost *otherworldly* feel. Let’s talk about this gorgeous concoction and make it *yours*! This season, you *need* the 'Black Galaxy' Leotard and Tutu.
Here's what we're going for:- **A black leotard:** A good, plain black leotard – no fussy embellishments, we’re working with minimalist chic here! Let’s go with a high cut, with a stunning, sharp neckline, and ensure you can move freely with stretch fabric that contours your beautiful form, like a second skin. Try the **‘Classic Black’** leotard from Dancewear.com (they have all sizes, my dear, it’s like they have something for *everyone*).
- **The Star Dust Tutu:** Ah, the crowning glory. We want something airy, shimmering like a starry night, with a hint of a romantic touch, don’t you think? You can buy **a blank tutu base** at your favourite shop or order one online - **‘The Ballet Shoppe’** always delivers on quality and service (find it at www.ballet-shoppe.co.uk). You know how they say 'it's the little details that make a big difference?' - this time it's **Sequin Tulle** (think subtle silver and gold sequins like a starlit sky - it’s heavenly!) – find yours online at Etsy.com (I can’t stress enough how gorgeous their unique designs are!), then layer with layers of delicate netting in **midnight blue and black** - the kind with that sheer and flowy drape, just *sigh* (shop at **‘The Fabric Store’** – it’s a London staple with a phenomenal range).
- **Metallic Thread:** To finish it off, let’s bring the ‘galaxy’ theme home! Grab **iridescent gold and silver thread** and thread them through your black leotard, creating fine, but dramatic, accents at the seams and neckline - it’s about subtle pops of shimmer! It's also time to give a little touch to the tutu base. Using delicate sewing skills and some patience, try incorporating a few of the metallic threads in small motifs into the tutu's underlayers. Don’t go overboard with the gold and silver threads darling! Subtlety is your key, to truly embody the shimmering elegance.
Voilà, you have your ‘Black Galaxy’ leotard and tutu! Make it your own by accessorising – think beautiful black crystal earrings that echo the starry-night feel of your tutu, a deep black satin bun and – for an absolutely stunning final touch - black eyeliner that smudges a little, like a star trail against the deep night sky!