Ballet Russes in AW11-12

As a dancer, I’m constantly inspired by the contribution costuming can have upon not only art, but fashion also. Beautiful in itself, ballet has had an overwhelming influence on fashion and art for centauries for its classic image; tutu’s and 50’s style skirts, wrap around dress and tops and of course, the famous ballet slippers.

Ballet costuming, like everything, has evolved through time and taken on many images and styles. And albeit beautiful, modern day stage style doesn’t have quite the same effect as that of the early 1900. Of course I’m referring to one of the strongest ballet companies of the 20^th Century; Diaghilev’s Ballet Russes.

Diaghilev’s Russes contributed a high level of skilled ballet with a contemporary collaboration of art and composition to the avant-garde Parisian period; an infectious career spanning 20 years.

The unconventional and innovative essence of the Russes Couture can be found in so many of the Autumn Winter catwalks for 2011-12; Roland Mouret, Temperley London and Balenciaga to name a few. I’ve chosen my favourite collections for this season with the best Ballet Russes inspired looks, and narrowed it down to my top 5 (okay 6, it was too difficult to choose)…

1) Mary Katrantzou

2) Ana Sekularac

3) Bunmi Koko

4) Elie Tahari

5) and Finally, it’s got to be Alexander McQueen

all images sources vogue.com