By Francesca Claybrook
Ballet-inspired updos and soft makeup have been all over the runways, which means that very soon ballerina style will be making its way to the streets. Need proof? Check out Demi Moore in her whimsical Oscar dress. I had the chance to sit down with Donna Salgado, a New York City dancer, who gave me some tips on how to translate ballet style to your style.
What are some easy tips for translating ballet style into everyday style?
No matter what time of year, curve-hugging styles hit the runways and store shelves all over the world. An attempt to look sexy and stylish can fall flat when the garment is ill-fitting. Well, ballet style can be summed up in two words: tights and leotard. Dancers are constantly aware of how they look in such tight clothing! Despite how snug all leotards may appear to be, the variety of fabric and cuts create a dizzying array of options for the dancer. Most dancers meticulously find the best cut- the one that squeezes the body in the right places, the one that has the proper bust support, and the one with the proper leg cut to make the legs look long. Take this inspiration and pay attention to the details- the cut, your support and your actual size. A little extra attention to these details will allow your silhouette to take center stage.
Marie Claire recently did a feature on the ballet-inspired hair and makeup. How can we incorporate this look into our makeup routine?
My favorite aspect of stage make up is false eyelashes. While false eyelashes may not be appropriate for everyday, a similar but subtle look can be created by using individual false eyelashes. Ardell individual fashion lashes can be purchased at Target or CVS. The smaller grouping of 3 or 4 hairs allow for more control over where the lashes are applied. On special occasions I put two groupings on the outer sides of my top lashes. The effect is very glamorous.
My favorite makeup reminiscent of the “ballet pink” shade is Stila’s award winning kitten eye shadow! Sephora has this pinky champagne colored eye shadow in dry and wet formulas. The shimmery quality is very rich and concentrated.
What about those elegant updos? Do you have any foolproof tricks that help it stay up even while you’re moving around so much?
My secret for keeping hair in place: Goody Ouchless Bobby Pins and Ouchless Elastics are a must. For french twists and complicated updos I use Goody Extra Large Bobbys and Bunheads Hair pins (get them here). Before putting my hair up, I wet it slightly and will often use a little hair product to bind the hair together or smooth out the whispys. If I use product in my hair, I prefer pomade to hair gel to avoid the crunchy look when I take the bun out!