Darling, the time has come for you to unleash your inner prima ballerina, even if you are only at the barre in your living room. February brings us all to thoughts of romance, so let's get this party started with a bit of tutu and a little leotard that will make everyone feel like they're on stage. Remember, my dears, you can only be your most glamorous self if you feel comfortable.
Our February must-haves are all about bold colour - the brightest, most saturated pinks and blues. Let's go! This Month's Inspiration - Leotard & Tutu!
- The leotard must be fitted with a flattering scoop neck, low back and some stretch. Nothing too baggy or too tight here, darlings!.
- For the Tutu? Well darling - We are talking classic: A single layer of gauzy, romantic tulle in an adorable shade of lavender, held by a satin waistband that accentuates the waist. Oh, it will look exquisite, my dears.
- Fabrics: One metre of stretch cotton Lycra fabric in Pink (for the leotard) & One metre of the most gorgeous tulle, lavender, for our tutu! And for the finishing touches, we will need some beautiful pale lavender ribbon, maybe a satin band for the tutu? Find these lovely things at your local haberdashery, darling. But if all else fails - head over to Amazon or Ebay - but do choose carefully!
- Tools: Now let's make sure we have our essential sewing kit on hand, darling! You'll need:
- Measuring Tape
- Fabric Scissors - not your household scissors - they won't cut properly and you will find you can't manage them
- Needle & Thread - You want something a bit stronger than normal thread, darling!
- Safety pins
- A Sewing Machine - if you have one!
- Chalk - Or tailor's chalk for the ultimate glamorous look - this will help with marking fabric as you're cutting!
First, make a pattern for the leotard, if you don't already have one! Find an old one that you love and use it as a pattern to make a perfect new version! If you are making this on a machine, then make sure that the right side of the leotard fabric is on the outside. Then pin it all carefully and let's give this baby a sew! Then for the fun part!
You want a beautiful round tutu that gives us the perfect romantic shape - so take the tulle, fold it over so it is four layers and measure the waistband to suit the leotard. Then create a little gather of tulle along the top - or even buy some stretchy material that we can use to help give that wonderful drape. Once that's on the waistband, give that a little stitch! We're done with our ballet attire!
For those of you who don't have a machine - that's perfectly fine, darlings, there is always the good ol' trusty needle! You could even just try glue for some parts if you don't want to use your machine. Whatever you decide, go with it! There is always a method, even for the simplest tasks!
Remember, my dears, there are many paths to greatness. Whether you're a seasoned ballerina or a curious beginner, feel the rhythm of the dance. Go with what works for you! Make sure you feel beautiful, strong, graceful and radiant.
As always, keep twirling and smiling!