Darling, it’s February already and you know what that means! The world of ballet is abuzz with the latest designs and the hottest new looks for this season.
If you want to turn heads at your next class or performance, you need to create something that whispers elegance, screams sophistication and will simply take your breath away.
Don’t worry darlings, I’ve got you covered! As a veteran of the stage, I’m here to divulge my little secrets to create a truly timeless and breathtaking costume. Prepare to become a muse, a goddess of grace, and enchant the stage with your exquisite vision!
**This Month's Essential**
My darling, the absolute **must-have** for February 2004 is a leotard, adorned with delicate tulle, but not just any tulle… We're going for an ethereal, slightly romantic and a touch bohemian feel. Imagine those lovely Parisian evenings… think Monet's Water Lilies, soft sunset hues, and a touch of that Parisian je ne sais quoi. The colour palate for this leotard? Subtle peach and blush hues, soft champagne tones with perhaps a dash of charcoal grey. Absolutely ravishing, don’t you think?
**Items Needed**
* A soft, stretch, blush-toned leotard in the softest jersey imaginable, so it feels like a second skin, like a caress! You can find amazing things in Dancewear Essentials and Dance Zone - both are just fabulous darling. * One yard of fine blush tulle – not too stiff, mind you! We are aiming for fluidity, so think about that, darling, - for a floating, ethereal effect, you want it light and airy. Head down to The Fabric Shack, - you'll find beautiful options and expert help too! * A small pack of light gold beads – to add a touch of opulence to our look. There’s a place called 'Braid & Bead’ on Kensington High Street, if you’re in London – just heavenly, darling! * Clear nylon thread and a needle – the finest sewing you can find. For this, I always recommend John Lewis or Liberty London – top quality and excellent customer service, darlings.**Let’s begin our magical creation**
1. First things first – we're going to create the most enchanting neckline, a beautiful sweetheart shape that will give the illusion of a graceful swan, darling! I recommend folding over a narrow section at the top of your leotard, carefully stitching along the edges to form a soft, flowing sweetheart shape. Just a whisper of the leotard fabric to frame your lovely decolletage!
2. Now, the fun part - your magical tulle skirt. I’m thinking two soft tiers of tulle – a delicate layering for movement. Measure the leotard’s circumference and cut your tulle panels to allow for ample gathering around the bottom edge. For the bottom layer, double the measurement for an impressive volume. We’re going for a cascade of soft blush, dear!
3. With your needle and thread, create tiny gatherings in your tulle - this gives it the perfect airiness we crave! Then, meticulously sew them onto the leotard's waistband in delicate layers, like an intricate dance of lace. Use your clear nylon thread to avoid any bulky appearance and give it a more ethereal touch.
4. **A final touch of magic** We’re going for something exquisite, and here's the trick! For your finishing touch, carefully hand-sew the golden beads in a subtle design around the top tier of tulle - for example, around the waist of your beautiful tulle. The sparkle and gleam will illuminate the stage with you, making it unforgettable.
**Remember darlings** It’s about achieving perfect elegance, so when working with tulle, you’ll find that gentle pleating and a delicate touch go a long way! Always have your perfect blush-coloured tights at the ready for that cohesive look and finish.
** Now go out there and radiate** You’ve got this. The stage is your canvas, darling. Be a muse, and dazzle your audience!