Black Swan is released in the UK tomorrow and I for one am feeling inspired! Ballerina style (pink, ivory, tutus, leotards, ballet slippers, satin, etc, etc) appeals to real girly girls (me, to a certain degree) but what I particularly like about Black Swan is the dark, gothic side to the usually pretty ballerina style – this is no fairy tale.
Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis and Winona Ryder star in the movie – all actresses with dark tresses and a moody, mysterious attitute to match – definitely not your average Hollywood babe* – and are perfect for this psychological thriller directed by Darren Aronofsky. (Black Swan is the dramatic and tense story of a ballerina who wins the lead in Swan Lake as the delicate White Swan, but soon finds herself losing her mind, becoming more like her evil twin, the Black Swan).
A beautiful yet slightly twisted movie; who better to create the costumes than Rodarte? A match made in heaven. Laura and Kate Mulleavy (sisters) are the designer duo of Rodarte and regulary note that the inspiration behind their line often stems from horror movies and thrillers. (See the Rodarte SS11 collection on Vogue.com).
If you don’t feel particularly strongly about the whole ballerina theme, let me convince you – Harvey Nichols has the Swan Lake look nailed. Their favourite pieces will work with your existing wardrobe, rather than having you stepping out a la Carrie Bradshaw in the opening sequence of SATC.
For instance, the YSL Shimmer Tribute heels are classics and could be worn with a pair of cigarette pants and tailored jacket, while Sonia Rykiel’s pearl encrusted purse will fit neatly into your work handbag. Stella’s knitted sequin top will work just as well with jeans as it would with a tutu and the Lanvin gown has enough leather and gem detailing to translate as tribal (given the right accessories) if you get fed up of the ballerina style skirt. (But, let’s be honest, how could anyone get fed up of this?)
If like me, Swan Lake seems a bit too frothy then inject some Black Swan into your look. Think spikes, crochet, blacks and dark, berry stained lips. I might go look out a black tutu and cobweb sweater in honour of the movie’s release this weekend. Keep things pretty though – no Doc Martens allowed.
Swan Lake style at Harvey Nichols.
Image courtesy of Harvey Nichols, with thanks.
