My project is a Black Swan inspired tutu, specifically designed for the role of the Black Swan in Tchaikovsky’s iconic production, Swan Lake. As a dancer myself, starting ballet classes from the age of 4, dance has been a ubiquitous aspect of my life and something that I find extremely rewarding and have grown to love over the years, so, when the time came to choose the concept of my project, I incorporated my passion for dance through challenging myself to construct a tutu. I also decided to frame my inspiration around the role of the Black Swan, which is considered the most arduous role to perform due to its technical difficulty and intriguing character. The construction was a complex process, and although I was acquainted with the components of a tutu, having worn them during performances, I was inexperienced and unfamiliar with the level of difficulty that was required. Yet, with the guidance and endless support of my teacher who was, however, also unfamiliar to the fabrication of a tutu, we were able to break down the complex steps and achieve the desired result. In designing the tutu, it was constructed to provide functionality to the dancer by not interfering with complex motions and associated partner work involved in the role and providing comfort. This was achieved using multiple types of boning, lining, built in lycra underwear, hook and eye tape and adjustable hook and eye tape, nude straps, piping, and an inner elastic connecting the bodice to the basque. Each of these components enhances the performance of the costume without disrupting the movement of the dancer and fulfils the necessities it was designed for. Moreover, the aesthetic components of the tutu were also thoughtfully considered to portray the role of the Black Swan whilst also incorporating the elements and principles of design and enhancing the functional properties. These included the use of satin fabric, lining, illusion mesh, feathers, piping, free hand machine embroidery, beaded embellishments, triangular overlay plates, silver braid, nude straps, the tulle and net skirt, and hook and eye tape. Overall, the construction was definitely a complex and challenging process that taught me to become more adaptable and flexible, however, as a result of this, I thoroughly enjoyed every single time I was in my textiles classroom with my friends, classmates, and teachers, and it was such a rewarding experience I will forever be grateful for.
