Outfit Inspiration: Ballets Russes
Extravagant materials constructed the costumes of the Ballets Russes. Rich tapestries, ornate embroideries, lavish jewels, and bright colors brought the stories to life on the stage, and aided in producing an avant-garde and revolutionary experience for the audience which gave the Ballets Russes its fame today.
Otherworldly tales inspired the performances: pagan themes such as sacrifice infused The Rite of Spring, Firebird stemmed from a magical, folkloric character, puppets and jesters streamlined Petrushka. Such imaginative ideas necessitated exotic costumes.
Much of the culture detailed in the Ballets Russes was that of the “other.” An unfamiliar land and faraway people entertained the audience, costumes were flowing and mysterious. Bohemian trends appeared that are in vogue today.
Harem pants are one such silhouette that have found their way to modern streets. Brightly printed, comfortable and well-traveled, they are for the free-spirited. Feel like an artist in this Ballets Russes inspired outfit!
Flowy harem pants allow you to move as freely as the dancers from the Ballets Russes: Labour of Love printed harem pants
Show a hint of those toned abs in a flutter-sleeved crop top: Zara Studio cropped top
In performance art, it’s all about the accessories. Druzy jewels complete the look and tell the story of a rich past: Kimberly McDonald necklace, earrings and bracelets
Tie in a head wrap to pull this statement together: Missoni zig-zag head wrap
Wedges keep you on your toes: Jimmy Choo Preya wedge sandals
Mollie Rifkin finds energy in fashion and art, and understood her calling at a young age. The fix she got from reading her mother’s copies of Vogue while growing up led her to fashion writing. Mollie is passionate about scouting trends before they hit the streets and putting them into words. She sees fashion as wearable art and reports on style and culture, all the while exploring how the two are interrelated. Mollie is based in New York City.
