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Professional ballroom dancer Vilhelmina Lavrov takes a moment to explore our exciting NEW 2025 Chrisanne Clover Dancewear Collection, sharing her insights and impressions along the way.
As she tries on the latest designs, Vilhelmina offers a unique perspective on the fit, style, and overall feel of the garments, highlighting what makes this collection stand out for dancers everywhere.
Temptress Skirt and the Penelope Top
I absolutely adore the side split on this skirt; it adds a touch of sexiness and drama! This design makes it incredibly versatile for various dance styles, including Ballroom, Smooth, and even Paso Doble. The way it flows with movement is just fantastic. I've paired this skirt with the Penelope top, which I find to be very flattering. The shape of the top is lovely, and the slash neckline allows for the option of wearing it off the shoulder, adding an extra flair to the outfit.
Cressida Ballroom Skirt and Charlotte Top
The silhouette of the skirt with the petal shaped hem truly captivates me; it's so on trend right now in dance fashion. I adore how it fits and the graceful way it flares out. Pairing it with the Charlotte top creates a stunning combination. The sheer stretch net beautifully contrasts with the solid skirt, flattering the arms perfectly. The low cowl back is a lovely touch, with the subtle Chrisanne Clover logo peeking through at the center back. Altogether, it makes for a sophisticated outfit and dancing in it feels amazing.
Daphne Ballroom Dress
The georgette float effect sleeves are absolutely stunning and sway beautifully during dance. The flared skirt complements the movement wonderfully, while the keyhole back adds a touch of sophistication. This look is Alex's favourite from the collection on me! Although the georgette panels can be tied at the front for a different style, I prefer to leave them loose and allow them to flow naturally. The fit and flare design of the dress is incredibly flattering, and the soft crepe fabric feels delightful against my skin.
Eternity Top and Emanuela Trousers
I absolutely adore these trousers; they truly embody everything you could desire in a pair of dance pants! The sharp pin tuck detail brings a sophisticated flair, and the splits from calf to ankle are a brilliant feature that allows for easy movement without the risk of tripping over them. The tie option is fantastic, providing that extra bit of security to prevent any mishaps with the fabric. I'm so excited to wear these while teaching! I've styled them with the eternity top for a polished and elegant look.
Isla Top and Anya Trousers
These palazzo trousers are absolutely fantastic; they look just like a ballroom skirt! The flared trouser design combined with the tie detail adds a touch of elegance, and I adore how they flow with every step. Pairing them with the Isla top is a brilliant choice, as it beautifully complements the trousers, highlighting the graceful movement of the flared palazzo with its georgette cape and flowing drop hem. The stretch net back adds a sleek element, and the keyhole detail at the back provides a sophisticated touch to the overall look.
Favourite Pieces?
I adore the Cressida Ballroom skirt and the Emanuela trousers they are my 2 favourite pieces I this collection with their design detailing of the skirts petal shaped hem, and the trousers pin tuck lines with calf splits with the added ties – perfection! The stretch crepe fabric makes all theses pieces feel so light, but soft and doesn’t make you sweat – this collection is so good!
Hotfix crystals vs Non Hotfix crystals
Creating dancewear and luxury couture garments requires attention to detail, and one of the most important elements in achieving a dazzling finish is the use of hotfix crystals and non hotfix crystals. Whether embellishing ballroom gowns, stage costumes, or haute couture pieces, choosing the right type of crystals plays a crucial role in the design process.
At Chrisanne Clover, we offer an extensive range of crystals, including the highly sought- after Preciosa VIVA 12 hotfix crystals and VIVA 12 non hotfix crystals. Understanding the key differences and best applications of these crystals can ensure a flawless and long-lasting result.
What is the difference between hotfix crystals and non hotfix crystals?
When it comes to embellishing dance costumes, the choice between hotfix and non-hotfix crystals can impact both the application process and the final look. The main difference lies in how they are applied—hotfix crystals have a heat-activated adhesive on the back, while non-hotfix crystals require a separate adhesive.
What are Hotfix Crystals?
Hotfix crystals come with a heat-activated adhesive already applied to the back. Designed for quick and secure application, these crystals can be attached using a hotfix applicator, heat press, or even an iron (with care). When heated, the adhesive melts and bonds seamlessly to the fabric, making this method ideal for large-scale embellishment projects or garments requiring a firm hold, making hotfix crystals an ideal choice for high-performance dancewear that requires durability and flexibility.
When to Use Hotfix Crystals
For time-saving application – The pre-applied adhesive means there is no need for extra glue. On fabrics that absorb heat well – Hotfix works best on non-coated fabrics, such as Lycra, cotton, or jersey. For a secure, long-lasting hold – The heat-activated adhesive ensures a stronger bond compared to standard glue applications.Chrisanne Clover stocks a wide range of Preciosa hotfix crystals in various shapes, sizes, and colourways, ensuring that your costume has the exact sparkle needed to make an impact.
What Are Non-Hotfix Crystals?
Non-hotfix crystals do not come with an adhesive backing, giving you more control over placement and allowing for application on a wider range of materials. These crystals require a separate adhesive to attach them securely to fabric, accessories, or even hard surfaces like shoes and jewellery. This method is favoured by designers working on luxury couture garments and delicate fabrics where precision is paramount. Whether embellishing lace, chiffon, or other intricate textiles non hotfix crystals allow for artistic freedom and creativity. With the ability to layer adhesives to achieve a stronger hold or use them alongside embroidery and other embellishment techniques, these crystals provide unmatched flexibility in couture design.
When to Use Non-Hotfix Crystals
For precision placement – Perfect for intricate designs where each crystal needs to be carefully positioned. On delicate or heat-sensitive fabrics – Ideal for materials that cannot withstand high temperatures, such as silk, tulle, or chiffon. For embellishing hard surfaces – Unlike hotfix, non-hotfix crystals can be used on dance shoes, headpieces, and accessories.At Chrisanne Clover, we supply an extensive collection of Preciosa non-hotfix crystals, handpicked for their exceptional clarity and brilliance—the ideal choice for dressmakers looking for ultimate flexibility in their designs.
Hotfix vs. Non-Hotfix: Which Is Best for Your Project?
Both hotfix and non-hotfix crystals have their advantages, depending on your design needs. Hotfix is perfect for fast, secure application, while non-hotfix provides ultimate flexibility and precision. Many professional dressmakers combine both methods—using hotfix for broader coverage and non-hotfix for intricate detailing—to achieve a flawless, high-impact finish.
For dancewear that demands durability, movement, and secure attachment, hotfix crystals are often the preferred choice. They can be efficiently applied in bulk, ensuring a uniform finish across large surface areas. Additionally, they are less likely to detach during vigorous movement, making them ideal for competitive dancewear where garments are subject to intense performance conditions.
In contrast, for garments intended for occasional wear, couture runway pieces, or bridal gowns, non hotfix crystals offer a more tailored and customisable solution. These crystals can be hand-placed with precision to achieve intricate patterns and unique designs that elevate the overall aesthetic. They are often applied using a specialist fabric glue or sewn onto the garment for a more traditional approach, ensuring they remain securely in place even on delicate fabrics.
Our Preciosa VIVA 12 range provides a premium selection of both hotfix crystals and non hotfix crystals, each offering exceptional clarity and brilliance. The VIVA 12 hotfix crystals are widely used by professional dancewear designers for their ease of application and durability, while the non hotfix variant is favoured by couturiers and costume designers seeking the ultimate in bespoke embellishment. With an extensive choice of colours and sizes available, designers can achieve a truly bespoke look that complements their creative vision.
To explore our full range of Preciosa VIVA 12 crystals and discover how they can enhance your designs, visit our Preciosa page. We stock a range of sizes from SS6 to SS48.
We are excited to present you with a fantastic 20% discount on STRETCH NET this February!
With more than 40 vibrant colors available, Chrisanne Clover Stretch Net is a premium fine net known for its impressive durability and remarkable elasticity!
To achieve a variety of shades, effects, and textures, consider layering stretch net over metallics and fabrics in different colours and patterns. This technique allows you to play with the interplay of light and colour, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your ensemble.
By mixing and matching stretch net with various fabrics and prints, you can create a dynamic look that stands out. The contrast between the shiny metallics and sheer texture of stretch net adds depth and interest to your outfit, making it more engaging.
Experimenting with these combinations not only showcases your creativity but also allows you to express your personal style. Embrace the versatility of layering to transform your wardrobe into a canvas of unique and eye-catching designs.
Dive into techniques such as ruching, twisting, and knotting to add depth and character. With Stretch Net, the possibilities for innovative and stunning creations are boundless!
Discount offer available until the 28th February
Trade discounts apply
Whilst promotional stocks last
This January, dancers from across the globe gathered in the UK to participate in the renowned UK Open Dance Festival held in Bournemouth.
Our talented couture team put in a tremendous effort to create gowns for our sponsored dancers and customers, ensuring that each costume showcased the unique style and personality of the individual dancer, with every outfit adorned with sparkling Swarovski® crystals. Our couture designer Becky, gives us an insight into the inspirations behind each couture gown …
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Spearmint Final Ballroom Dress
For the final Irina wore this dazzling spearmint Ballroom dress adorned with ostrich feather boas and embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours crystal blue, silk sage delite and laguna delite…
‘Inspired by Oscar de la Renta’s latest bridal collection and the movement of fringing on a soft ballroom skirt, this dress blends elegance with fluidity. The stoning embellishment, influenced by Kendall Jenner’s Givenchy gown at the Met Gala, enhances the cool spearmint tone. The overall look remains delicate yet striking, with a cohesive palette of cool-toned hues.’
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Red Ballroom Dress
In earlier rounds Irina wore this striking red Ballroom dress adorned with delicate lace dripping with beads and fringe and embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours light siam, fire opal and scarlet. Complete with luxury ostrich feather boas draped gracefully over each arm.
‘A dramatic and gothic-inspired design featuring full-length sleeves and a bold boa detail across the biceps, cascading over the shoulders. Crystal chain accessories add edge, while the vintage open-weave net bodice, fully adorned with fire opal Swarovski crystals, crystal droppers, bead accents, and fringing, amplifies movement and elongates the silhouette.’
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White Final Ballroom Dress
For the final Anna wore this beautiful white halter neck Ballroom dress embellished with Swarovski crystals in colours crystal, electric white, white opal and crystal white pearls.
‘Designed for height and an hourglass silhouette, this dress features mirrored pearl and crystal embellishments that contour the body. The high halterneck leaves the shoulders and back open, while sweeping floats from the wrist and back add fluidity. The overall aesthetic channels 1920s–30s glamour with a modern twist.’
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Sassy Yellow Ballroom Dress
In earlier rounds Anna wore this vibrant Sassy Yellow Ballroom dress, adorned with ostrich feather fringe and embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours jonquil, light topaz, sunshine delite and sunflower.
‘A bold, sassy take on yellow, this design balances warmth and vibrancy by incorporating sunflower and light topaz crystals near the face. The shading transitions into a voluminous Ofri skirt, creating a dynamic visual effect. Inspired by a wing pendant, the large geo floats and mirrored stoning enhance presence on the dance floor.’
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Wine Ballroom Dress
Vilhelmina wore this dazzling Wine Ballroom dress adorned with 3 dimensional petal shapes and embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours crystal AB, rose, fuchsia and light siam shimmer.
‘This design reimagines Vilhelmina’s past styles with fresh colors and an innovative underskirt. Long, twisting lycra cut-outs sculpt the body, complemented by cascading stoning in petal-like formations. Bondaweb petal and flower embellishments on the bust, hip, and wrist enhance the organic flow, while multi-layered floats and signature long gloves complete the look.’
For more information about any of the couture featured in this email, contact our couture team [email protected]
Anna and Eric achieved an impressive 6th place at the UK Open this January, maintaining their ranking since they teamed up again and made a memorable impact at last year's Blackpool Dance Festival. We had the chance to chat with Anna about her experiences at the UK Open and the stunning dresses she showcased during the event.
Once again, it’s truly an honour to be able to enter the Final Round of the Open Professional Ballroom! My appreciation to my teacher Hanson Yang. Thank you for the ongoing support from Ms. Lin Bing & the Cimen Family.
Thanks to my sponsor @chrisanne_clover & @ads_adsdance_shoes !
And my dance partner -@ericlisicheng , We made it
It’s still in my memory that the last finalist solo dance of UK Open was in 2018 when I was dancing in the Amateur Final. Deeply in love with this stage…it’s magical
Congratulations on your finalist result at the UK Open how was this years’ experience for you?
Honestly, it was quite exhausting to dance from the first round all the way to the finals. However, every moment was worth it! I’m thrilled and honored to have secured sixth place once again, which means we’ve achieved this in all three major UK finals: Blackpool, International, and UK OPEN.
We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from our teachers, friends, and sponsors throughout this journey. Their encouragement has been invaluable, and it truly makes a difference in our performance.
I want to extend a special thanks to Chrisanne Clover for their unwavering support. It really boosts my confidence and makes me feel unique in this competitive environment!
Tell me about the colour choices you made in choosing sassy yellow and white as your chosen colours for the UK Open?
Last September, I discovered my passion for the vibrant shade sassy yellow while visiting the Chrisanne Clover showroom. The moment I laid eyes on it, I just knew it was the perfect colour for the UK OPEN.
Regarding my final dress, I chose a timeless white, which I believe is an elegant choice for the final round. I couldn't be happier with my decision to wear it.
Both colours hold a special place in my heart, and I feel they truly represent my style and confidence on the dance floor.
Did you have a particular favourite?
I truly adore both dresses, and picking a favourite is quite the challenge. The vibrant yellow is incredibly striking on the dance floor, drawing everyone's attention, while the classic white exudes elegance and grace. With the stunning designs from Chrisanne Clover, my appreciation for these two colours has only deepened.
When I wore these dresses at the UK Open, I feel a sense of pride and confidence that truly enhanced my experience on the dance floor. The way the sassy yellow pops against the backdrop was simply unforgettable, and the sophistication of the white dress added a touch of magnificence to my movements.
Every time I stepped out in either of these beautiful creations, I feel more at ease and ready to shine. The combination of Chrisanne Clover's exquisite designs and the captivating colours truly elevated my competition dancing, making it all the more enjoyable.
You have had an amazing collection of couture dresses made by Chrisanne Clover over the years, can you tell me which one is your favourite and why?
It's certainly a challenging question to answer. Each dress represents a unique competition and a different chapter in my life, and I treasure every experience I've had on the dance floor. I'm incredibly grateful for the effort that Chrisanne Clover put into creating my dresses; each one is a true work of art.
However, the sugar pink dress I wore at the Blackpool Dance Festival last year holds a special place in my heart. Being back on the competition floor in the UK with Eric was an unforgettable experience, and that dress made it all the more magical.
The apple green dress I donned for the internationals was a real hit with the audience. I received countless compliments on it! The full skirt in that vibrant apple green, enhanced with the heavily embellished Swarovski crystal bodice, truly made it a showstopper. It was a dress that really turned heads and left a lasting impression.
What are your plans now after the UK Open?
Celebrating Chinese New Year with my family and creating precious moments with my son. As well lots of practicing and teaching with Eric.
We are eagerly anticipating our return to the UK for the Blackpool Dance Festival in May! It's an event we always look forward to, and we can't wait to immerse ourselves in the excitement and energy of the festival.
YOU CAN BROWSE ANNA'S COUTURE COLLECTION HERE >
BROWSE THE UK OPEN COUTURE HERE >
For more information about any of Anna’s dresses, or to have a dress made inspired by her look, contact our couture team who will more than happy to help make your dream dress a reality [email protected]
Irina Cherepanova and Stanislav Zellanin have successfully defended their title as Professional World Champions, once again emerging victorious at the UK Open. We had the opportunity to chat with Irina following their flawless performance, celebrating their impressive achievement…
Congratulations on winning the UK Open how was this years experience for you?
This year's competition held a unique significance for us, as we felt a newfound freedom to truly express ourselves. Our performances came straight from the heart, creating a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with everyone present. It was a night filled with passion and joy, but also one that tugged at our heartstrings.
The evening was particularly memorable due to the heartfelt tribute we paid to our beloved teacher, Andrew Sinkinson. His influence on our lives and dance journey was profound, and honoring him added a layer of emotion to the event. We all felt a deep connection, not just to our art, but to each other and to the legacy he has left behind.
As we danced, the memories of Andrew filled the room, making it a night we will cherish forever. The blend of celebration and remembrance created an atmosphere that was both uplifting and poignant. It was a beautiful reminder of the impact he had on us, and we will carry that spirit with us in all our future performances.
Tell me about the inspirations you and our designer Becky had behind your red and spearmint dresses?
My Chrisanne Clover Ballroom dresses truly made the evening unforgettable, allowing me to feel like a star straight out of Hollywood—radiant and brimming with confidence...
I collaborated closely with our designer, Becky, to bring my vision to life. My final spearmint gown drew inspiration from Oscar de la Renta’s latest bridal collection, featuring a soft ballroom skirt adorned with crystallized fringing that blends elegance with fluidity beautifully. The Swarovski crystal embellishments were inspired by Kendall Jenner’s stunning Givenchy gown at the Met Gala - perfectly complementing the refreshing spearmint shade.
My red dress that I wore for earlier rounds took on a dramatic, gothic flair, it was complete with full-length sleeves and a striking boa detail that gracefully draped over the shoulders. The addition of crystal chain accessories provided an edgy touch, while the vintage open-weave net bodice, lavishly adorned with fire opal Swarovski crystals, crystal droppers, bead accents, and fringing, not only enhanced movement but also elongated my silhouette beautifully.
You have an amazing collection of couture dresses made by Chrisanne Clover over the years, can you tell me which one is your favourite and why?
It is difficult to choose as each dress holds its own charm each one distinct and one of a kind. If I were to pick my absolute favourites, I would definitely highlight the stunning white pearl dress from last year's UK Open final. Additionally, the champagne flower dress worn during the world championships in Blackpool truly stands out, along with the delightful sugar pink dress from the internationals at the Albert Hall.
However, I am completely enamoured with the vibrant red and spearmint dresses I have just worn for the UK Open. Each one of these gowns brings something special and with it such fond memories, making it difficult to choose just one as the best. The way they capture attention and express individuality is simply remarkable.
It's amazing how every dress tells its own story, reflecting different moments and experiences. From the elegance of the white pearl to the playful charm of the sugar pink, each one has a place in my heart. I can't wait to see what new designs will come next, as my love for these beautiful creations continues to grow!
What are your plans now after the UK Open?
Once we enjoy a little break in Paris, we'll be right back to our practice and teaching schedule. Our time at the UK Open was incredible, and it was a brilliant way to usher in 2025. We’re already looking forward to our return to the UK in May!
You can shop irina’s couture collection here >
Shop the UK Open couture collection here >
For more information about any of Irina’s dresses, or to have a dress made inspired by her look, contact our couture team who will more than happy to help make your dream dress a reality [email protected]
For more information about any of Irina’s dresses, or to have a dress made inspired by her look, contact our couture team who will more than happy to help make your dream dress a reality [email protected]
Designed for dancers: The importance of exceptional dancewear
The Chrisanne Clover Dancewear 2025 collection introduces a refined selection of practicewear, designed to meet the highest standards of quality and style. For dancers, the right attire is more than just clothing—it is an essential part of their craft. The latest collection reflects the elegance, functionality, and durability that have become synonymous with the Chrisanne Clover name.
Comfort and durability: the foundation of exceptional dancewear
Dancewear must provide both comfort and resilience, allowing for complete freedom of movement without compromise. Crafted from lightweight, breathable fabrics, the 2025 collection offers garments that feel like a second skin. Whether for daily practice or intensive rehearsals, each piece is designed to support the demands of the dancer’s lifestyle.
Durability is equally important. Every garment in the collection is carefully constructed to maintain its shape and quality, even with regular use. This focus on longevity ensures that dancers can invest in pieces that continue to perform, day after day.
Charlotte top
Dancewear tailored to every style
Understanding the distinct needs of different dance disciplines, the 2025 collection presents practicewear designed with versatility and purpose:
Contemporary dance: Minimalist designs and clean lines enhance movement and form, allowing for confident self-expression. Ballroom and Latin: Flowing skirts and structured silhouettes combine elegance with practicality, ensuring dancers can perform with ease and poise.
Innovative design and materials
With a focus on innovation, the 2025 collection incorporates advanced fabric technology and thoughtful construction. Materials such as stretch crepe and stretch net provide the perfect balance of structure and flexibility, supporting dynamic movement while maintaining shape and comfort.
Key features include:
Enhanced stretch to support a full range of motion. Breathable fabrics for comfort during extended sessions. Durable construction to preserve the luxurious finish over time.Each detail, from precision tailoring to subtle embellishments, has been considered to create garments that transition effortlessly from the studio to semi-formal settings.
Eloise Latin Dress
A collection for every dancer
Whether a seasoned professional or just beginning a dance journey, the 2025 collection offers something for everyone. With adjustable waistbands, elasticated finishes, and versatile separates, each piece is designed to flatter a variety of body types and suit different skill levels.
The all-black collection showcases exquisite craftsmanship with refined tailoring and subtle design elements, allowing dancers to personalise their look with mix-and-match options tailored to their style and needs.
Eternity top & Cressida Ballroom skirt
Choosing the perfect dancewear
Selecting the right dancewear goes beyond aesthetics; it is about finding garments that support movement and reflect dedication to the art of dance. When exploring the collection, consider:
Fit: Choosing styles that complement individual movement and form. Functionality: Selecting pieces suited to specific dance disciplines. Quality: Investing in materials that deliver long-lasting performance.By focusing on these elements, dancers can build a practice wardrobe that offers both elegance and practicality.
Discover the collection
Explore the 2025 collection on our practicewear page and find pieces designed to support and inspire your dance journey.
It was great to catch up with our sponsored dancers Vilhelmina and Alieksandr Lavrov while they are in the UK ready to compete at the UK Open..
How do you feel about competing at the Uk Open taking place next week?
V: Excited! A lot of practice has gone into it and I'm so excited to wear my new dress!
You danced at the Star Ball 100 year anniversary this week how was that for you?
V: It was really good, and always amazing to dance to a live orchestra with Len Philips. The dress felt great we always like dancing on that dance floor with good judges and a great atmosphere!
A: the lights are amazing at this event and when we are dancing to a live orchestra it gives us a great feeling and so much energy!
V: Yes, Len Philips is our favourite orchestra!
A: Plus, I like it in the final that they change from Latin to Ballroom which means the dancers have the time to recover and give their best performance and they don’t look tired lol
Vilhelmina in her hot red feather shaded dress at the UK Open 2024
Is the UK Open one of your favourite competitions?
A: The Internationals at the Albert Hall is my favourite
V: The Internationals is n1, UK Open n2, and Blackpool Dance Festival n3. These are the top 3 competitions in the world and they are all in the UK and they are our favourite The world championships is always changing places so we can’t really make that a favourite as it is different every year.
A: But the next world championships taking place this year will be in Tokyo, so we are really looking forward to going there! For me it will be my first time in Japan, Vilhelmina has been several times – we will try and stay for a few more days either before or after the competition to explore!
How different does it feel now you have turned professional compared to what it was like when you were in amateur?
A: I feel it was the right time and the right moment. When I look at amateurs dancing now they are so much younger!
V: I feel when we first turned professional it was scary, a scary decision and scary on the floor, but once we were on the floor as professional, the other competitors were so much more respectful.
A: Yes, I like the floor craft of the professionals, they don’t dance dirty – no pushing or blocking…
V: yes much more respectful and mature
A: This is what I felt we were doing in amateur but when on the floor it was like ‘run forest run’ lol keep your frame and go go go haha
V: In professional it really feels more about the dancing and much more gentle.
A: Pro’s are more skilled, with more technique and experience so they know what to do in stressful situations
Vilhelmina's shaded sugar pink ombre feather Ballroom dress at the Blackpool Dance Festival 2022
How long have you lived in America now?
V: 2.5 years
And how are you finding it living in America?
V: at the beginning it was so hard, for the first 6 months it was really bad!
A: We were seriously thinking of moving back lol
V: I think we had made the decision to move back …
A: Vilhelmina made the decision to move back, I said lets wait a few more months and then if we feel the same way we move back
V: And then you said we should move back and I said no lets stay lol!
Oh no so what changed your minds?!
V: It was a complete culture shock! But with the dancing everything was great!
A: We had a great place to practice, we have great teachers,nice competitions, the students also appreciate you a lot. But it’s a chain of documents! We couldn’t get this document without this document – we needed to practice so we rented a car and all our savings from Sweden went into renting this car! For foreigners it is so difficult!
Vilhelmina in her hot magenta shaded Ballroom dress at the Blackpool Dance Festival 2024
But everything has worked out and you are settled?
V: Yes we are settled now and we are going to extend our visa’s lol
A: During our dance career we will 100% be in the USA, when we retire and think about a having kids/family we will see about that … because Sweden is number 2 in the world for raising children, however USA is the top 3 in the world for the dancing industry
What makes USA so great for the dancing industry?
A: ProAM
V: I think that they have so many competitions and they are super well organized, every competition is well organized!
A: Sometimes just the local competitions here in New Jersey are on par with some of the world championships! The lights and music are just as amazing almost every competition here is 5 days long, they have rhythm and smooth also here so it has a completely different feel, and each day covers each area of competition – Ballroom, Latin, Rhythm and Smooth.
V:They respect the dance so much and the students really admire the dancing and want to learn so much, and for us as professionals – we have access to the best teachers! Like just 15 minutes from our house we have Katusha Demidova!
A: The location where we are in New York - everyone from Europe comes to this area to teach lessons and everyone from the US comes to New York to give lessons – its like the epicentre of dance!
Vilhelmina wearing the Cressida Ballroom Skirt and Charlotte Top from the NEW 2025 dancewear collection
You have just tried on the our NEW Chrisanne Clover Dancewear 2025 collection – what pieces stood out to you the most and why?
V: The pants definitely! The Emanuela Trousers I really like those, I love the style with the pintuck pleat and the ties at the ankles because it makes them so comfortable to practice in. And the Cressida Ballroom Skirt! The style is so in fashion on the dancefloor right now – it feels light and I love the feel of the stretch crepe. Every single item in the Chrisanne Clover dancewear collections has the perfect material! It is light, but soft, not sweaty lol they are really good!
A:I have a shirt in the Chrisanne Clover stretch crepe material I like to wear it a lot – it is so breathable – everyone always asks where I got it from lol
Vilhelmina wearing the Emanuela Trousers and Eternity top from the new 2025 dancewear collection
You have a certain style- look trending at the moment with the 3 dimensional petal shapes - how do you explain your style and why you like it …
V: It is very important that your Ballroom dress accentuates your best features, and also to look stylish and elegant, I like to look very feminine, and love that these 3d flowers gives me some shape – being very tall and thin I can look very flat, but by adding these 3 dimensional features helps give me some shape and it makes the dress look really luxurious and expensive!
A: I feel no matter what shape you have these flowers will create a 3 dimensional picture to your look
V: I like to have floats and feathers to accentuate our shape, like at the moment I have some hanging from the right shoulder, and I like it when the skirt is tighter on the hips as it makes the skirt look a lot lighter.
A: You were the queen of shades now you are the queen of flowers lol
V: I love the shading too because it is not just a column of colour, but now we have the 3 dimensional style … maybe we need to combine them both for the next dress lol
A: I remember when Vilhelmina first had the shading ombre feather boa floats, people though it was crazy …
V: Now everybody does it! Although I don’t think they as good a job at doing it as Chrisanne Clover! Sometimes it can look like 2 colours just stitched together
Vilhelmina in her fire ombre feather shaded Ballroom dress at the Internationals 2022
What would you say are your favourite colour/s at the moment?
V: Always red, red is my favourite colour! I also love hot magenta. Apple green is super beautiful! Aleks likes the tropic lime…
A: I do, I also I love the animal print
What would your future colours be? As all of your favourite colours you have had made into dresses?
A: oh no that’s a secret! Just say black lol
V: We are looking at blues – maybe blue/green. Or yellow – as yellow looks good in Blackpool. Definitely more the blue green style …
A: You had a dress in cobalt before and that looked really good
V: I got my cobalt dress right before the pandemic, so it was hanging in my wardrobe – pride of place - waiting to be worn throughout the pandemic
A: I think maybe one day we could do blueberry as it kind’ve sits between blue and purple depending on the lights and the crystals
Vilhelmina's cobalt Ballroom Dress worn in 2020
What are plans after the UK Open?
V: After the UK Open, actually the day after we come back we have a competition in America, we have the Eastern United States Dance Championships, and we will be representing New Jersey as the best Professional couple on the team match. Then after that in February and March it is a super busy intense time for competitions in America, so we have the New York Dance Festival, Eastern United States Championships, Tri State Championship and many more. Then we are thinking of coming back to England sometime in April for lessons, and then it is the big Blackpool Dance Festival!
A: I loved that we saw Ronnie and Jamie in the US before Christmas! Come back again we cant wait to see you!
Vilhelmina's most recent white Ballroom dress worn in Las Vegas 2024
Everyone at Chrisanne Clover wishes the best of luck to Vilhelmina and Alex at the UK Open!
You can watch Alex and Vilhelmina dance here >
Stretch Satin Fabric: A Chrisanne Clover Guide to Elegance and Performance
When it comes to dancewear and couture, the choice of fabric plays a pivotal role in defining both style and functionality. Stretch satin fabric, a luxurious yet versatile material, has become a staple in creating garments that demand elegance and flexibility.
At Chrisanne Clover, our commitment to innovation and quality ensures that every piece of stretch satin fabric we provide meets the high standards required for professional dancewear and couture fashion.
What is stretch satin fabric?
Stretch satin is a unique material that combines the rich, glossy finish of traditional satin with the flexibility of stretch fabrics. This combination makes it ideal for garments that require both a sophisticated appearance and the ability to move seamlessly with the body.
The satin weave gives the fabric its characteristic smooth surface and lustrous sheen, while the addition of elastane or spandex introduces elasticity. This combination of materials results in a fabric that offers comfort, durability, and a touch of glamour, perfectly suited to the demands of the dance industry and high-end fashion.
Why choose stretch satin for dancewear?
Dancewear must strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Stretch satin rises to the challenge, offering benefits that make it an ideal choice:
· Flexibility: The elasticity of stretch satin allows dancers to move freely, ensuring comfort and support through even the most complex routines.
· Aesthetic appeal: With its glossy finish, stretch satin elevates the visual impact of costumes, enhancing their presence under stage lights.
· Durability: Chrisanne Clover’s stretch satin fabric is crafted to endure the rigours of rehearsals and performances, retaining its shape and lustre over time.
· Tailored fit: Stretch satin moulds to the body, creating a sleek, form-fitting silhouette that enhances a dancer’s lines and movements.
Uses of stretch satin fabric in the dance industry
Stretch satin’s versatility makes it a favourite for various dancewear creations, including:
· Ballroom and Latin dresses: The fabric’s fluidity and ability to catch light create a stunning visual effect during performances.
· Bodices and accents: Its snug fit and luxurious sheen make it ideal for bodices, as well as decorative elements like sashes or bows.
· Accessories: From gloves to headpieces, stretch satin is often used to craft accessories that complete a dancer’s ensemble.
Beyond dancewear: Couture fashion
Stretch satin’s appeal extends far beyond the dance floor. Designers prize it for its ability to drape elegantly and its adaptability to intricate designs. From flowing evening gowns to tailored jackets, stretch satin brings sophistication and timeless beauty to couture creations.
Tips for working with stretch satin fabric
To achieve the best results when designing and sewing with stretch satin, it’s important to handle it with care. Here are a few tips:
· Cutting: Use a rotary cutter to achieve clean edges and reduce fraying. Pay attention to the stretch direction to optimise garment flexibility.
· Needles and thread: Choose a ballpoint needle and polyester thread to prevent snags and ensure smooth seams.
· Seams: Stretch-friendly stitches, such as zigzag or overlock, accommodate the fabric’s elasticity while maintaining durability.
· Pressing: Protect the satin’s finish by using a low-heat iron and a pressing cloth.
Why stretch satin remains a timeless choice
The enduring appeal of stretch satin lies in its ability to combine comfort, style, and durability. This versatility ensures its place as a favourite in both the dynamic world of dance and the refined realm of couture fashion. At Chrisanne Clover, we take pride in offering stretch satin that not only meets but exceeds expectations, empowering creators to bring their visions to life.
Explore our stretch satin collection or browse our full range of fabrics to find the perfect foundation for your next masterpiece. Whether you’re designing for the stage or the runway, our fabrics provide the elegance and performance your creations deserve.
January is famously recognised for launching the year with the UK Open Dance Festival held at the Bournemouth International Centre. Let's take a moment to reflect on some of our couture highlights from the past five years, with each dress exquisitely adorned with Swarovski® crystals, and made in London at our head office by our professional design team...
GOOD LUCK!
Check out the Uk Open Dance Festival for more information about this event and results HERE >
THE 2025 COLLECTION IS HERE!
We are thrilled to present our NEW Chrisanne Clover Dancewear collection for 2025. This collection features a variety of sophisticated dresses, tops, skirts, and trousers that beautifully complement the female silhouette while facilitating graceful movement in dance. With an emphasis on rouching and draping, floats and delicate finishes, this collection merges contemporary styles with luxury, ensuring both comfort and durability.
A collection of seamless interchangeable looks that will bring a timeless elegance and effortless style to your dancewear attire on and off the dancefloor.
Our beloved Stretch Satin collection is now available at a 20% discount this January! The Chrisanne Clover Stretch Satin features a fantastic one-way stretch and an impressive mechanical stretch on the bias, making it incredibly versatile for your projects. With its stunning glossy finish, it’s perfect for use as an all-over fabric or for creating skirts for juvenile wear, American smooth, and Ballroom styles, as well as menswear. The creative options with this fabric are limitless!
BDD597PP
8.5m of electric pink stretch satin has been used to create this shaped empire styleline gown that is attached under the stretch net bustline. Stretch satin flows beautifully down the dress into flared skirt panels that are hemmed with 77mm crinoline; resting over electric pink organza underskirts and embellished with Swarovski® crystals.
3.5m of stretch satin is ruched expertly across the bodice of this sugar pink Ballroom dress worn by the world professional Ballroom champion Irina Cherepanova at the Internationals 2024. Embellished beautifully with Swarovski crystals in crystal and crystal AB.
The Dancefloor's Secret: Exploring Double Looped Fringe
When it comes to competitive dancewear, every detail counts. From the fabric's flow to the sparkle of crystals, each element plays a vital role in creating an outfit that captivates both judges and audiences alike. One often-overlooked but essential trimming in this equation is fringe—particularly double looped fringe, a staple of Chrisanne Clover’s luxury trimmings collection.
But what exactly is double looped fringe, and why is it a favourite for competitive dancers worldwide?
double looped fringe shown in colour Midnight Sky
What is double looped fringe?
Double looped fringe is a refined and luxurious version of traditional fringe, meticulously crafted for high-performance garments like competitive dancewear. The key difference lies in its unique structure: each strand is finished with two small loops, rather than a single layer of thread. This subtle yet impactful detail creates fringe with exceptional volume, durability, and a more polished appearance.
The double-loop design gives the fringe a dynamic flow that enhances movement, making it ideal for outfits where fluidity and motion are essential. This added dimension allows the fringe to ripple and sway dramatically with every twist and turn, capturing light and creating a striking visual effect. The texture is soft and silky, avoiding the stiffness often associated with standard fringe, which can sometimes restrict natural drape and movement.
Another significant advantage of double looped fringe is its weight. The double loops create a slightly heavier trimming compared to single-layer fringe, which ensures it stays in place during high-energy performances. This weight adds depth and richness to a costume while maintaining its practicality for vigorous routines. Whether embellishing a hemline, bodice, or sleeves, double looped fringe creates an air of sophistication and effortlessness, making it an indispensable trimming for designers and dancers alike.
double looped fringe shown in colour Tropic Lime
Why is Chrisanne Clover’s double looped fringe exceptional?
At Chrisanne Clover, we understand that fringe is more than just an embellishment—it’s an essential component of a dancer’s performance. That’s why our double looped fringe is meticulously crafted to combine stunning aesthetics with unmatched functionality. Renowned for its softness, our fringe drapes effortlessly over the body, moving fluidly without snagging or becoming stiff. This makes it the perfect choice for dancewear where both comfort and dynamic motion are essential.
Our double looped fringe is specifically designed with the competitive dancer in mind. We use only premium materials to ensure each strand maintains its integrity, even after hours of rehearsals and competitions. The result is a high-quality trimming that not only enhances your outfit but also withstands the demands of your lifestyle on and off the dancefloor.
What truly sets Chrisanne Clover apart is the way our trimmings seamlessly integrate with our luxury fabrics. Whether you're working with our signature stretch velvets, crepe fabrics, or bespoke printed textiles, our double looped fringe is expertly colour-matched to ensure a flawless finish. This attention to detail allows designers to create cohesive, professional-level garments with ease, delivering show-stopping results every time.
double looped fringe shown in colour Silver
Perfect for Latin and rhythm-inspired dancewear
Double looped fringe finds its natural home in Latin and rhythm-inspired dance costumes. These styles demand outfits that amplify the sensuality and energy of movement. Whether you’re performing a cha-cha, samba, or rumba, the fringe becomes an extension of the dancer, accentuating every hip movement and turn with fluidity.
For professional and amateur dancers alike, Chrisanne Clover’s fringe helps bring costumes to life. Its luxurious finish elevates outfits beyond the ordinary, allowing dancers to exude confidence and grace on the floor. From ballroom competitions to salsa performances, this trimming adds a polished, professional edge.
double looped fringe shown in colour Emerald and Black
Practical benefits of double looped fringe
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, double looped fringe offers practical benefits for designers and dancers:
- Easy to work with: The softness and high-quality construction make it easy to sew onto garments, whether by hand or machine.
- Durable: Unlike lower-quality options, Chrisanne Clover’s fringe resists fraying, ensuring longevity.
- Versatile: It can be layered for a dramatic effect or used sparingly for subtle embellishment, making it suitable for a wide range of dance styles.
Not just for dancers
While double looped fringe is a favourite in competitive dancewear, it’s also a versatile trimming for fashion designers. Its elegance and quality make it an excellent choice for evening gowns, costumes, and even bespoke accessories. Paired with Chrisanne Clover’s matching fabrics and embellishments, it offers endless creative possibilities.
double looped fringe shown in colour Ice Blue
Elevate your dancewear designs with Chrisanne Clover’s double looped fringe, the perfect combination of style, movement, and quality. Whether you’re creating a competition piece or enhancing an outfit, our expertly crafted fringe ensures a flawless finish every time. Shop Chrisanne Clover's double looped fringe online and bring your dancewear vision to life.
From us all, at Chrisanne Clover, we would like to take the time to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and all the best for the New Year 2025.
We want to thank you for your continued support and we hope to remain your partner on and off the dancefloor for the new year ahead as we continue to supply you with fabric, trimmings, crystals, dancewear, menswear, and couture for 2025.
The last guaranteed day of dispatch is Monday 23rd of December. We will be closed from the 25th of December until the 1st of January 2025. Any orders placed at this time will be processed and dispatched the week commencing 2nd January.
This is a busy time of year for delivery companies, so delays may occur in shipping which is outside of our control. Please accept our apologies for any delays and the inconvenience this may cause.
Looking forward to a happier and healthier 2025, with lots of new and exciting products we cannot wait to share with you!
All the best
Ronnie Li
Managing Director, Chrisanne Clover
Get in a tassel this Autumn season wrapped up in feathers and fringe to add more drama, movement and pure luxury to your designs…
OSTRICH FEATHER FRINGE & BOA
With over 30 colours options available why not add a touch of pure luxury to your couture and designs with our ostrich feathers that truly transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary! Use feather boas for chiffon float alternatives or additions to add drama. Experiment with ombre effects mixing colours and shading, or just add pieces to your couture for added movement and texture.
Lace Ribbons: An Elegant Touch for Dance Costumes
Lace ribbons bring an unmatched elegance to dance costumes, enhancing everything from ballroom gowns to contemporary dancewear with intricate detailing and sophisticated flair. In the dance industry, where appearance is closely tied to performance, high-quality lace trimmings can make a costume stand out under the spotlight.
The Art and Function of Lace in Dance Costumes
Lace has been a fabric of choice for centuries, beloved for its intricate patterns and delicate appearance. When applied as a trimming, lace ribbons and lace motifs provide a refined finish, especially suited to the dance industry. Lace not only adds an artistic element but also enhances the fluidity of a costume, creating a harmonious blend of style and movement.
Exploring Chrisanne Clover’s Lace Ribbons
Chrisanne Clover’s lace ribbons are designed with the dance industry in mind, offering dancers and dressmakers a variety of colourways and lace motifs. The assortment available ensures that every design need can be met, whether it’s a classic black lace for ballroom or a striking red lace motif to accentuate a Latin dress.
Colourways that Compliment Every Style
The Chrisanne Clover collection includes a range of colours tailored to suit diverse costume aesthetics. From timeless black and white lace to vibrant colours like red and royal blue, the colour options cater to different dance styles and personal preferences. Subtle lace trimmings in shades like lilac dream or ice blue are popular for understated elegance, while bolder colours like pink fizz add a dramatic flair. This variety allows designers to find the perfect match to enhance their vision for each costume.
Distinctive Designs for Unique Creations
Chrisanne Clover’s lace motifs also stand out for their unique designs. Each lace ribbon is crafted with attention to detail, featuring florals, geometric patterns, and delicate filigree designs that range from understated to elaborate. This variety provides dressmakers with creative freedom to customise dance costumes, ensuring that each design reflects the performer’s personality and the spirit of the dance.
Applications of Lace Ribbons in Dancewear
In dancewear, lace ribbons serve both decorative and functional purposes. Their versatility means they can be applied in multiple ways, adding flair to costumes across various dance genres.
Accentuating Bodices and Skirts
A popular use of lace ribbons is as a trimming along bodices and skirts. In ballroom and Latin dance costumes, lace motifs are often placed strategically to accentuate movement, drawing attention to a dancer’s silhouette. The lace ribbons along the skirt add fluidity, moving gracefully with each step and enhancing the visual effect on stage. Similarly, lace motifs on the bodice can add dimension and character, framing the dancer’s upper body with elegance.
Creating Statement Sleeves and Necklines
In the world of dance, sleeves and necklines are opportunities for creative expression. Lace ribbons make beautiful trimmings for both, lending sophistication without overpowering the overall costume. Adding lace to the neckline brings a sense of refinement, while lace-trimmed sleeves or cuffs create a striking look that complements movements like arm extensions and spins.
Layering for Depth and Texture
Lace motifs are also used as overlays, creating a sense of depth and texture. Designers may layer lace ribbons over different fabrics to add a subtle contrast or highlight specific sections of a costume. For example, a nude base fabric layered with black lace can create a vintage or Gothic-inspired look, while brightly coloured lace on a matching or contrasting fabric adds a bold visual element.
Lace Motifs for Tailored Embellishment
Chrisanne Clover’s lace motifs allow designers to add custom embellishments to specific areas of a costume. Motifs can be placed on the waistline, shoulders, or even asymmetrically for a unique, contemporary look. This selective use of lace helps in drawing the audience’s eye to the costume’s intricate detailing, enhancing the costume’s visual appeal while maintaining a balanced design.
Expert Colour Matching and Design
With Chrisanne Clover’s wide range of colours, designers have the freedom to match lace ribbons seamlessly with other materials. The brand’s expertise in providing colours tailored for the dance industry also allows for greater creativity and cohesion in costume design.
With Chrisanne Clover’s collection of high-quality lace motifs and carefully crafted lace ribbons, designers have access to an array of colours and designs that allow them to create unique, performance-ready costumes. Whether it’s a dramatic red lace motif on a Latin dress or an elegant black lace ribbon on a ballroom gown, these trimmings bring a timeless elegance that enhances every performance.
SHOP HERE >
Understanding Crinoline: A Dancewear Essential
In the world of dancewear, selecting the right fabrics can make all the difference in creating the movement, volume, and support dancers need on stage. One such fabric is Crinoline, a versatile material with a fascinating history and an important role in modern dance costumes.
What is Crinoline?
Crinoline, often recognised for its ability to create structured forms, is a stiffened, open-weave fabric initially made with horse hair and cotton. Today, it’s typically produced from synthetic fibres, which offer greater durability and flexibility. Its unique structure provides volume and body without adding weight, a key feature in dance costumes that require both aesthetic appeal and functional movement.
Origins of Horse Hair in Crinoline
Historically, Crinoline was woven from horse hair, giving it both its name and its distinctive stiffness. This early use of horse hair became the foundation for modern-day Crinoline fabrics. Though synthetic materials have largely replaced horse hair in production, the term remains synonymous with Crinoline’s enduring qualities of resilience and form.
Key Qualities of Crinoline for Dance Costumes
1. Lightweight yet Supportive
Crinoline provides dancers with structured garments that are surprisingly lightweight, allowing for ease of movement without sacrificing design. It’s ideal for costumes where volume is essential, such as ballroom skirts or petticoats, giving them that signature “swoosh” and lift during spins.
2. Breathability and Comfort
The open-weave nature of Crinoline makes it breathable, preventing discomfort even during intense performances. It keeps costumes airy and comfortable, especially when layered with other materials like tulle or satin.
3. Flexibility with Soft Boning
In dancewear, Crinoline soft boning offers an alternative to the traditionally stiff boning used in corsets. This type of boning is ideal for supporting areas of the costume where some flexibility is necessary, enabling dancers to move freely without losing the structured silhouette.
How Crinoline is Used in the Dance Industry
The versatility of Crinoline means it’s found in various applications in dance costumes, from creating voluminous skirts to adding structured detailing to costumes. Here’s how Crinoline serves different roles across dancewear design:
Creating Volume in Skirts
Whether it’s a ballroom gown or a tutu, Crinoline is commonly used to create fullness and volume. Dancewear designers frequently layer crinoline with other fabrics to give skirts their desired shape, often incorporating Crinoline soft boning to retain form. This layering technique provides dancers with skirts that are both visually captivating and responsive to movement.
Soft Boning for Corsets and Bodices
Crinoline soft boning is an innovative solution for designing bodices and corsets in dance costumes, especially in styles where support is necessary but complete rigidity would hinder flexibility. Unlike conventional boning, soft boning with crinoline offers a balance between structure and comfort, allowing for a defined silhouette without restricting movement.
Horse Hair Trim for Added Drama
While crinoline as a fabric has moved away from actual horse hair, the term horse hair trim persists in costume design. This trim is applied along hems of skirts or dresses to add bounce, creating a dramatic flair when dancers spin or move. Horse hair trims in crinoline are renowned for their durability, keeping costumes in excellent shape even through rigorous performances.
Tips for Working with Crinoline in Dancewear Design
- Layer Strategically: When designing skirts or petticoats, layering crinoline with softer fabrics allows for a voluminous look that remains soft against the skin.
- Incorporate Soft Boning Wisely: Use soft boning in areas where costumes need support without being restrictive. This technique works well for corsets or structured skirts, especially when dancers require a combination of structure and comfort.
- Finish with Horse Hair Trim: Adding a horse hair trim to hems provides additional lift and movement, enhancing the dramatic effect of skirts on stage.
Crinoline, with its unique structure and versatility, remains an essential fabric in dance costume design, contributing both visual appeal and functional support. With Crinoline soft boning and horse hair trims, designers can bring an extra dimension to dancewear that makes every movement come alive on stage. At Chrisanne Clover, high-quality crinoline is part of a commitment to supporting dancers and designers with materials that look exquisite and perform exceptionally. Explore our Crinoline range in a variety of our Chrisanne Clover signature colours and bundles.
This November we are thrilled to release our NEW 2024-25 online Catalogue Digital Flipbook! Bigger and better than ever this catalogue is now available to download, browse and shop!
Effortlessly flip to the pages you want to see using our easy to follow contents page guide. You can also shop each product page with links to take you directly to the product pages on our website!
Browse by fabric colour collection or by product type, whatever you are looking for you are sure to be inspired!
This November we are thrilled to offer you 20% off our Matt and Lustre Lycra fabric range!
No need to enter a promo code the price is already deducted on each product...
We have two main types of Lycra: Matt and Lustre Lycra. Lustre Lycra has a slight sheen finish that adds a different quality to your design. We have over 29 colours available in Matt Lycra and over 15 colours in the Lustre Lycra each one colour matching to our essential colour collection range... Read more >
Discount offer available until the 30th November
Trade discounts apply
Whilst promotional stocks last
The Versatility of Lycra Fabric in the Dance Industry
Many of us are familiar with Lycra – whether your experience be due to cycling, comfortable leggings, swimming costumes or leotards. Amongst those that love this fabric are dancers, who need garments that enhance movement, provide comfort, and exude elegance. This is why Lycra, a fabric known for its stretch, resilience, and luxurious feel come to front of mind.
At Chrisanne Clover, we specialise in offering premium Lycra fabrics tailored to meet the demands of professional dancers. Our expertly crafted Lycra fabric is not only versatile but also reflects the superior quality that Chrisanne Clover is renowned for on the world dance stage.
What is Lycra and Why Is It Essential in Dancewear?
Lycra, often referred to as spandex or elastane, is a synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity. It has revolutionised performance fabrics due to its ability to stretch up to five times its original size while maintaining shape retention. For dancers, this characteristic is critical. Dancewear crafted from Lycra offers a second-skin fit, ensuring unrestricted movement during even the most demanding routines.
Lycra’s unique properties make it a popular choice across various dance genres. Whether it’s for ballroom, Latin, contemporary, or jazz, Lycra is favoured for its flexibility, durability, and lightweight nature. Its adaptability allows designers to create form-fitting costumes that move seamlessly with the body, essential for those sharp pivots, fluid extensions, and powerful leaps seen on the dance floor. Moreover, Lycra’s breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities keep dancers comfortable, ensuring they can focus solely on their performance.
Chrisanne Clover Lycra: Luxury Meets Performance
At Chrisanne Clover, we pride ourselves on providing not just any Lycra fabric, but a premium product that meets the exacting standards of professional dancers and costume designers worldwide. Our Lycra fabric is celebrated for its luxurious feel, rich colour options, and long-lasting performance. Each metre of fabric is meticulously crafted to ensure it supports the movement and endurance of dancers while maintaining its sophisticated aesthetic.
What sets Chrisanne Clover Lycra apart is our commitment to quality and precision. All our Lycra fabrics are expertly colour-matched to complement our entire range of luxury fabrics and components. This means you can effortlessly coordinate your costumes, creating a cohesive and polished look for any performance. Our attention to detail ensures that the vibrancy of the fabric remains consistent, wash after wash, maintaining its integrity for multiple performances.
In addition to our standard stretch Lycra, we offer fabrics that can be used for a variety of costume elements, from body-hugging leotards and unitards to dramatic skirts and elegant accessories. This versatility makes our Lycra a go-to for designers seeking both function and flair in their creations.
Lycra Fabric Uses in the Dance Industry
Lycra has an unmatched ability to accommodate the dynamic nature of dance. Some common uses of Lycra in dancewear include:
- Leotards and Bodysuits: Lycra’s stretch allows for leotards and bodysuits to fit closely to the body without restricting movement. This provides a sleek silhouette while allowing for the full range of motion needed for performances.
- Dance Skirts and Dresses: Lycra can be combined with other fabrics to create skirts and dresses that drape beautifully but remain lightweight and easy to wear. Its stretch also ensures that these garments stay in place as the dancer moves.
- Accessories: Lycra is ideal for creating accessories like arm cuffs, leggings, and belts, adding a touch of finesse to any costume.
Additionally, Lycra is frequently used in ballroom and Latin dance outfits, where a balance between stretch and style is paramount. Dancers in these disciplines require costumes that are both figure-flattering and functional, allowing for freedom of movement while enhancing the elegance of their routines.
Why Chrisanne Clover Lycra Stands Out
At Chrisanne Clover, we understand that dance costumes must be both beautiful and durable. Our Lycra fabric is crafted with the performance dancer in mind, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of competition and regular wear. What truly makes our Lycra a standout fabric in the dance industry is its:
- Luxurious Finish: Our Lycra is soft to the touch and drapes beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to every costume.
- Stretch and Recovery: With excellent elasticity, our Lycra stretches with the dancer’s movements and recovers its shape time and time again, maintaining a flawless fit.
- Durability: Our Lycra fabric is designed to be long-lasting, withstanding regular use without losing its shape or vibrancy.
Expertly Colour Matched
At Chrisanne Clover, we are renowned for our expert colour-matching services. Every piece of Lycra fabric is meticulously matched to our full range of luxury materials, ensuring seamless coordination with other costume components. This attention to detail is particularly crucial for costume designers who need consistency in their creations, whether they are crafting a single ensemble or multiple costumes for a team.
This colour-matching expertise also extends to our embellishments, including rhinestones and crystals, ensuring that each piece enhances the overall design. With a Chrisanne Clover costume, performers can rest assured that their look will be flawless from head to toe, exuding the sophistication and professionalism that is expected on the competitive dance floor.
Complementing Lycra with Chrisanne Clover Components
Beyond the fabric itself, Chrisanne Clover offers a wide range of luxury components that perfectly complement our Lycra. From elegant trimmings and appliqués to crystals and rhinestones, these elements can be used to elevate any design.
For example:
- Stretch Velvets: Our stretch velvets pair beautifully with Lycra to create stunning contrasts in texture and depth. Used together, they offer both stretch and opulence, perfect for creating unique and standout costumes.
- Embellishments: From delicate lace trims to sparkling crystals, our embellishments are designed to add that extra touch of luxury. Paired with Lycra, they create costumes that not only perform well but also captivate on stage.
- Crystals and Rhinestones: For dancers, sparkle is often synonymous with performance. Our wide range of Swarovski and Preciosa crystals can be applied to Lycra-based costumes, offering a dazzling effect under stage lights.
Whether you’re preparing for your next competition or looking to elevate your dance wardrobe, our Lycra fabric offers the perfect foundation for creating exceptional costumes. Explore our full range today and experience the Chrisanne Clover difference for yourself.
Behind the sequins and the sparkles, the competition is about to turn deadly . . .
When a promising young dancer collapses during the opening tango of a major competition, Lily Richmond, dance legend, teacher and one-time world champion, is convinced that murder is afoot.
There’s only one person who can help Lily solve the mystery: her former student, now turned private detective, Susie Cooper. But Susie vowed she’d never return to the ballroom …
As the competition gets fiercer and the bodies pile up, Susie will be forced to go undercover in Blackpool and come face to face with a man she thought she’d left behind. Can Lily and Susie unravel the rumours from the rumbas and expose the murderer’s identity before they strike again?
Sex, lies and ballroom dancing. Murder on the Dance Floor is a backstage pass to a world where the most ambitious will stop at nothing to win.
If you like your crime deadly and your romance spicy, look no further
It was with great surprise that CHRISANNE CLOVER was featured in her book ...
…“straight into the changing room, darling. We don’t have time for faffing around.’
Susie didn’t budge. ‘I think I’m capable of picking out my own dress.’
Not here at Chrisanne Clover’s ballroom-gown showroom she wasn’t…’ Lily.” Susie stuck her out of the door. ‘You don’t have to pay for it, just pick a cheap one.’
‘Inexpensive darling. Never cheap. There’s a difference.’ Lily got to work in what she called ‘the business end’ of the shop.
The couture section where dresses ran into the thousands and, as such, didn’t come with price tags.
Beyond the showroom lay a well-lit, sprawling room filled with every haberdashery item under the sky. At the far end was an inviting array of glue guns, specialized adhesives and threads, if personal embellishment was more you style. Feathers were available in every shade known to mankind. There were pompoms and tassels and enough sequins to bathe in. Reams of lace, Swarovski crystals by the fistful, and even diamonds, depending on the colour of your credit card.
Countless textured and imaginatively coloured fabrics filled yet another enormous hall. Silks, satins, georgette, milk fibre, mesh, chiffon, organza and tulle. Lily allowed herself a brief moment to close her eyes and inhale. It even smelt expensive. There had been more days in her life than there hadn’t when she wouldn’t have even allowed herself to think of walking in this store, let alone buying one of the couture dresses…
… So instead of returning home, she asked the driver to take her to the studio. She decided to try on the rehearsal skirt she might have accidentally bought while Susie was in the early phases of I-hate shopping. It was called the ‘Temptress’, and for good reason. Jet black, like the rest of her rehearsal clothes, the four-panelled skirt was made of a luxury crepe and featured a thigh-high split on the left. It was perfect for a dramatic dance like the paso doble...
Get your hands on the Temptress Practice Skirt featured in the book >
Who are Chrisanne Clover?
Founded originally as Chrisanne in 1986, now Chrisanne Clover is a dynamic company rooted in the competitive ballroom dancing scene, specialising in high-quality dance fabrics and costumes. Founded by passionate dancers, the company has evolved to become a leader in its niche, committed to quality, innovation, and collaboration.
Their story ????
Chrisanne Clover was born from the shared vision of two dancing couples who noticed a big gap in the market for dance-specific fabrics. Before they came along, dancers often struggled to find matching materials across different shops, making costume creation a bit of a hassle. This challenge inspired them to create a one-stop solution for the dance community, making it easier for dancers to find everything they need in one place.
How they started ????
The journey began when the founders, driven by their passion for dance, decided to fill the void in the market.
As Giles Hatch, Executive Director, says, “We realised that creating costumes shouldn’t be a struggle; it should be an enjoyable part of the dance experience.”
By combining their expertise and insights from the competitive dancing world, they set out to provide high-quality, matching fabrics tailored specifically for dancers.
What focus means to them
For Chrisanne Clover, focus is all about keeping a clear vision and making sure their actions match their goals.
Giles puts it simply: “Focus, to me, means always keeping the ultimate goal in mind and making sure your actions line up with it. You might need to change your approach along the way, but the goal stays the same.”
He highlights that this dedication to focus has really helped shape their business strategies and spark innovation.
The challenges ????
As Chrisanne Clover grew, they faced a few challenges along the way. One of the big ones was managing the rapid expansion after merging with Crystal Clover in 2015. Bringing teams together and adjusting to the new dynamics required a thoughtful approach to keep everyone’s spirits high and productivity flowing.
“Change can be daunting,” says Giles, “but it also opens up opportunities for growth and improvement.”
On top of that, the competitive landscape called for a unique product that balanced creativity with quality.
“We always have to find that sweet spot between excitement and durability. Our costumes need to hold up to the demands of competition while still looking absolutely stunning,” he adds.
The solutions ✅
To address these challenges, Chrisanne Clover focused on four key areas:
Quality: They are committed to providing the best products and exceptional customer service. Integrity: Honesty and ethical practices are central to their culture. People: The company prioritised hiring individuals with the right attitude and passion, recognising that their team is the heart of the business. Collaboration: Open communication and alignment among team members encourages a sense of ownership and creativity.Giles points out a major shift in their management strategy, saying, “A key change in focus happened a couple of years before COVID, and it was all about people and management development. Instead of just training people to fix their weaknesses, we started concentrating on what they naturally excel at.”
He notes that this approach has really boosted productivity and workplace satisfaction, adding, “When people work in their strengths, it not only benefits them but the whole organisation.”
Breathe plays a key role in how Chrisanne Clover runs things day-to-day by encouraging individual responsibility throughout the business. With Breathe, each department can handle its own workflow, which means team members can approve their holidays and breaks without getting caught up in a long approval process.
As Giles puts it, “This autonomy creates a sense of self-responsibility and keeps everyone accountable for what they do.”
On top of that, Breathe gives useful insights into personal data, like sickness reports, which helps keep things clear across the team.
Giles really appreciates how unobtrusive Breathe is, saying, “It operates seamlessly in the background, supporting team management without being intrusive.” He adds, “Overall, Breathe is a reliable tool that everyone knows how to use, fitting perfectly with our focus on trust and accountability.”
The results ????
The focus on quality has really paid off for Chrisanne Clover. They’ve built a solid reputation in the dance community, known for their innovative approach and dedication to quality.
“We’ve created a brand that dancers not only trust but also feel proud to be a part of,” says Giles.
The customer feedback has been great, consistently highlighting the perfect blend of excitement and quality in what they offer.
The future ????
Looking ahead, Chrisanne Clover is excited to keep growing while adapting to the changing market landscape. They recognise that moving towards a more digital approach can be challenging, especially as customer engagement shifts from in-person experiences to online platforms.
Giles is clear about the path they want to take: “We’re focused on enhancing our website and boosting our social media presence to connect with customers around the globe.”
He envisions a future where Chrisanne Clover stays true to its core values of integrity, quality, and collaboration, even after he moves on.
“I’d be proud to know that the principles we’ve built will carry on long after I’m gone,” he adds.
As they navigate the fast-changing dancewear industry, Chrisanne Clover is all about exploring new ways to reach and engage customers. Their commitment to the dance community remains strong, and they aim to uphold their reputation as a market leader while fostering a culture of creativity, responsibility, and trust.
Giles sums it up nicely: “At the end of the day, it’s about making a positive impact in the lives of dancers and creating products that inspire them.”
This October saw dancers from all over the world come to the UK to take part in the prestigious International Dance Festival with the final taking place at the iconic Albert Hall in London.
Our couture team worked hard to dress our sponsored dancers reflecting each dancers style and personality, each one embellished with Swarovski® crystals…
IRINA CHERAPANOVA
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Sugar pink & white final Ballroom Dress
Winning the professional Ballroom Irina wore this beautiful sugar pink and white Ballroom dress for the final. Stretch satin is expertly rouched over a sweetheart bodice and is shaped and rouched elegantly over the hips for a dramatic effect. Clusters of rich embellishment in Swarovski crystals in colours crystal and crystal AB creates a dazzling texture. 3 layers of handkerchief georgette godets adorns the skirt with a roll hem finish, accessorized with white stretch satin gloves with ostrich feather boa floats attached completing the look.
IRINA CHEREPANOVA
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Espresso Ballroom Dress
In earlier rounds Irina danced in a Ballroom dress made with our gorgeous NEW colour Espresso. Stretch net is expertly rouched over a sweetheart bodice draping elegantly down the back sides from a halter neck neck piece. Beautifully embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours crystal, light silk, golden shadow, light colorado topaz and metallic sunshine. Ostrich feather fringe is appliquéd with individual strands on georgette godets creating great volume and texture, resting over white organza underskirts. Accessorized with embellished stretch net gloves with georgette floats and ostrich feather boas attached to finish.
EMANUELA NAPOLITANO
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White Ballroom Dress
Dancing for the last time at the Albert Hall Emanuela danced her retirement showdance with partner Gaetano Lavarone. Dancing in this striking white stretch satin Ballroom dress embellished with Swarovski crystals in colours crystal, crystal AB, white opal and silver shade. Georgette and satin chiffon godets rests over organza underskirts hemmed with crinoline. Accessorized with georgette floats attached to embellished stretch net sleeves.
ANNA ZHOU
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Ice Blue Final Ballroom Dress
Placing a fantastic 6th place danced in this dazzling ice blue Ballroom dress for the final. Stretch net flesh adorns the sleeves and top, while ice blue stretch net is shaped in a sweetheart bust line flowing down the dress in 8 panels - flared and hemmed with crinoline and resting over white organza underskirts. Beautifully embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours crystal, moonlight, light sapphire, cobalt and majestic blue. Accessorized with a pair of georgette floats completing the look.
ANNA ZHOU
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Apple Green and Cappuccino Ballroom Dress
This beautiful cappuccino and apple green Ballroom dress Anna danced in in earlier rounds. A cappuccino shaped bodice is embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours crystal, citrus green and peridot shimmer. Satin chiffon godets rests over organza underskirts trimmed with crinoline. Accessorized with a pair of embellished cappuccino stretch net gloves with georgette floats attached, adorned with bead droppers for an elegant finish.
VILHELMINA LAVROV
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White Ballroom Dress
Placing 6th in the Professional Rising Stars Ballroom Vilhelmina looked stunning in her white Ballroom dress adorned with three dimensional petals, beautifully embellished with Swarovski crystals including colours crystal, crystal AB, light rose, light silk and topaz shimmer. Georgette godets rests over satin chiffon and organza underskirts, accessorized with a pair of georgette floats attached to embellished stretch net gloves.
For more information about any of the couture featured in this email, contact our couture team [email protected]
photo credit Tomasz Reindl Photography
Add a touch of brilliance this Autumn with a fantastic 20% off our Lumié Crystals collection!
Offer ends 31st October 2024
UP TO 44 CAPTIVATING COLOURS
In a kaleidoscope of captivating colours, Lumié crystals are flawless, on trend and the perfect colour-match for your own unique applications. In dramatic monochrome, or vibrant, multicolour combinations, our crystals sparkle like the finest gemstones and set the world alight!
The Timeless Elegance of Velvet Fabric for Dancewear and Couture
Velvet has long held a special place in the world of luxury fabrics, revered for its rich texture, lustrous finish, and inherent elegance. However, it’s not just couture designers who have embraced this opulent fabric—velvet has also made a name for itself in the world of dancewear. At Chrisanne Clover, we specialise in offering premium velvet fabrics, including performance-grade stretch velvet, perfectly curated to meet the demanding needs of dancers and designers alike. Whether for ballroom, Latin, or stage performances, our velvet fabrics combine beauty with functionality, offering unparalleled versatility.
In this blog, we’ll explore why velvet, particularly stretch velvet, is such a favoured choice for both dancewear and high-end couture. We’ll also highlight the key reasons Chrisanne Clover’s velvet fabric stands out, from its expertly matched colour range to its high-performance qualities.
Velvet in dancewear: beauty meets performance
When it comes to dancewear, aesthetics and performance need to go hand in hand. The fabric must not only look stunning but also support the physicality of dance—allowing freedom of movement, durability, and comfort. Velvet fabric, especially stretch velvet, has become a popular choice for dancewear designers for these very reasons.
The luxurious appearance of velvet
Velvet is renowned for its depth and softness, giving it a natural elegance that enhances any performance costume. The way the fabric reflects light creates a beautiful shimmer, adding dimension to the dancer’s movement. Whether it’s used for a dramatic ballroom gown or a sleek Latin dance outfit, velvet instantly elevates the look, adding a sophisticated richness that few other fabrics can achieve.
Stretch velvet: movement without compromise
Traditional velvet, while beautiful, lacks the flexibility required for dancewear. This is where stretch velvet comes into play. At Chrisanne Clover, our performance-grade stretch velvet is specifically designed with the needs of dancers in mind. It offers the same luxurious look and feel of traditional velvet but with added elasticity, ensuring that dancers can move freely without restriction.
Unlike some stretch fabrics, which can compromise on appearance, our stretch velvet retains the sumptuous texture and high-gloss finish that velvet is known for, without sacrificing functionality. The perfect balance between comfort and glamour makes it a go-to for designers working in the competitive dance industry.
Durability for high-performance costumes
Dance costumes endure rigorous wear, from rehearsals to performances, and they need to last. In an industry where quality is key, Chrisanne Clover’s velvet fabric stands out for its reliability. The fabric maintains its plush texture and elasticity, ensuring that costumes continue to look as good as new even after months of use.
Curating velvet for couture: a designer’s dream
While velvet’s performance attributes make it ideal for dancewear, its undeniable luxury means it has a permanent place in couture fashion as well. For designers creating bespoke garments, the tactile richness and elegant drape of velvet make it the ultimate fabric for curating truly memorable pieces.
Velvet in high fashion
Velvet has been associated with royalty and high fashion for centuries. Its dense pile and rich sheen lend an air of exclusivity and refinement. Whether it’s for a show-stopping evening gown, a dramatic cape, or a tailored suit, velvet fabric exudes a sense of opulence that makes it perfect for couture collections.
At Chrisanne Clover, we offer velvet in a wide range of colours, expertly colour-matched to our entire fabric collection, making it easier for designers to create cohesive, luxurious ensembles. This meticulous attention to colour matching is one of our USPs, ensuring that every hue is precisely what designers are seeking for their collections.
Elevating bespoke designs with expert craftsmanship
When curating couture garments, designers rely on the quality and consistency of their fabrics. Velvet fabric is crafted to meet the highest standards, ensuring that each piece drapes beautifully, holds its shape, and offers a smooth finish that is ideal for precision tailoring. Whether a designer is working on a floor-length gown or intricate detailing, our velvet fabric can be sculpted to create dynamic, unforgettable silhouettes.
The added stretch in our velvet options makes it even more versatile for couture, allowing designers to experiment with body-hugging designs that remain comfortable for the wearer.
Couture embellishments with velvet
Velvet's thick, luxurious pile makes it an excellent canvas for couture embellishments. Intricate beadwork, embroidery, and appliqué details all stand out beautifully against the rich backdrop of velvet fabric. Whether it’s Swarovski® crystals or delicate lace trims, designers can use velvet to enhance their creations with eye-catching, three-dimensional elements.
At Chrisanne Clover, we offer a wide selection of trims and embellishments that are expertly matched to our fabric range, allowing designers to create cohesive, show-stopping looks. This attention to detail and commitment to quality makes our velvet a top choice for designers seeking to make a statement on the runway.
In the world of dancewear and couture, velvet fabric continues to reign supreme for its blend of luxury, performance, and versatility. With Chrisanne Clover’s high-quality velvet fabrics, designers can craft garments that not only look exquisite but perform flawlessly.
Explore our full range of velvet fabrics today and discover the possibilities for your next creation. Whether you’re designing for the dance floor or the runway, Chrisanne Clover has the perfect velvet fabric to elevate your work.
We are thrilled to let you know that our Chrisanne Clover Dancewear 2023 Collection and Limited Collection are reduced by 25% off! If that’s not enough then we even have a selection of C by Chrisanne Clover practice wear pieces reduced by 50% off!
So stock up on your favourite dancewear pieces this Autumn because once they are gone, they’re gone!
The Limited Animal Print Collection is now reduced by 25%
FREYA LATIN SKIRT ANIMAL
WAS £145
NOW £108.75
ANYA TROUSERS BLACK
WAS £135
NOW £101.25
ISLA TOP
WAS £145
NOW £108.75
MARCELLA TOP
WAS £120
NOW £90
RAYA TROUSERS ANIMAL
WAS £95.00
NOW £71.25
The Chrisanne Clover Dancewear collection is reduced by 25% off
(excluding the Isla Top and Eternity Top)
ANYA JUMPSUIT
WAS £190
NOW £142.50
ELLA BALLROOM DRESS
WAS £225
NOW £168.75
EMMA TROUSERS
WAS £95
NOW £71.25
FREYA LATIN SKIRT
WAS £135
NOW £102.25
KIRA LATIN DRESS
WAS £145
NOW £108.75
LUNA BALLROOM SKIRT
WAS £195
NOW £146.25
MARCELLA TOP
WAS £110
NOW £82.50
MAYA LEOTARD
WAS £115
NOW £86.25
OLIVIA TOP
WAS £130
NOW £97.50
RAYA TROUSERS
WAS £85
NOW £63.75
TEMPTRESS PRACTICE SKIRT
WAS £145
NOW £108.75
6 pieces of the C by Chrisanne Clover Practicewear collection are reduced by 50% off!
GEMINI DANCE TOP
WAS £49
NOW £24.50
LYNX DANCE LEOTARD
WAS £45
NOW £22.50
MERCURY LATIN DANCE SKIRT
WAS £75
NOW £37.50
SCORPIUS LATIN DANCE SKIRT
WAS £70
NOW £35
VENUS BALLROOM DANCE SKIRT
WAS £89
NOW £44.50
VIRGO DANCE TOP
WAS £65
NOW £32.50
With the International Dance Festival fast approaching we take a look back down memory lane at some of the couture created for our sponsored dancers over the last few years, beautifully embellished with Swarovski® crystals ...
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In 2018 Natascha wore this striking Sassy Yellow Ballroom dress. Nude stretch net flows down the sleeves and through the dress embellished with Swarovski crystals and adroned with silver bead droppers. Crushed pleated satin chiffon floats and godets captures elegant texture.
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In 2019 Nataliya wore this dazzling Cobalt Ballroom dress beautifully embellished with Swarovski crystals. Velvet strips criss cross the bodice and georgette godets and flare shaped sleeves are trimmed with ostrich feather boas creating a dynamic effect.
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In 2021 Natascha wore this stunning fluo red and flesh pleated Ballroom dress featuring ruched stretch net and flesh fishnet embellished with Swarovski crystals, adorned with an array of bead droppers for the ultimate dazzle.
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In 2022 this striking reveal/interchangeable dress was Natascha’s farewell show dance couture. The underbody features black sequinned jersey attached over a nude stretch bodice, beautifully embellished with Swarovski® crystals. Once revealed (unattached), a dazzling gold metallic fabric rests over shaded godets trimmed with feather fringe along the hem.
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Last year for the finals Irina wore this red and cappuccino shaded Ballroom dress. A cappuccino dress is adorned with red ostrich feather boa and embellished with Swarovski crystals in light siam. Red to white shaded satin chiffon godets and floats creates a dazzling ombre shine for a beautiful contrast to the textured bodice.