Darling, the start of a new year is always such an exciting time for us ballerinas! A clean slate to create something fresh, new and exciting in the world of dancewear. Now, don’t think you need a lifetime of experience in the theatre to design a killer tutu or leotard. I’ve got a little trick up my sleeve for you. With the right ingredients and a sprinkle of imagination, we can turn even the simplest garment into a star!
For our new month's style, we are going to be drawing inspiration from the modern art scene. Think Kandinsky, Matisse, Picasso and more! That vibrant explosion of colour, sharp angles and geometric designs. The key to making this trend work, darlings, is finding a happy medium. We want a look that is bold and confident, but still maintains that beautiful, delicate ballet aesthetic.
To get you started on your new look here are a few tips.
- **Embrace the Colour Wheel.** It is time to ditch those pale pastels and embrace bright, bold hues, darlings! A vibrant leotard in a splash of cobalt or emerald is an excellent base for your look. You could even layer it with a chiffon skirt in contrasting colours.
- **Embrace Geometric Shapes.** Now, we don’t want to go full costume here, but we can still introduce sharp angles and curves. How about a leotard with an artistic cut out design? You could create a panel with contrasting colours in the centre of the leotard.
- **Experiment with Textures.** Satin, chiffon, and tulle, these are the hallmarks of a ballerina’s look but, why not give them a bit of a makeover? Experiment with silk or textured velvet! Let that shimmer reflect those studio lights in a dazzling way.
- **Add your Personal Touch**. What is better than creating a trend, darling? Taking the lead on a new look! Adding a handmade pearl or gemstone detail on your costume is just the perfect finishing touch.
But to make all those fabulous ideas come true, you need to get started.
Where to get started.
- **Your fabric store.** Start with a vibrant base fabric. It could be lycra, velvet, or even lace, experiment and don’t be scared to mix your materials!
- **Scissors that are super sharp and never dull** I am all about precision, honey!
- **Measuring tape**. Measure twice, cut once is your mantra! This avoids nasty mishaps.
- **Threads.** This could be anything from silk to embroidery thread! It can create texture and detail
- **Beads and gems.** Adding embellishment with pearl and crystal trim really elevates a look from great to fabulous
- **The internet**. My favourite site for unique inspiration is www.pinterest.com You can find all those contemporary trends on Pinterest for free!
I am ready for the new year, darlings, are you? Don't be afraid to unleash your creative side and dance in those colours, darling!