Contrary to what the magazines would have you believe, there is a way to float through Spring’s romance-spun reverie withough having to overload your garden with never-ending floral prints. A new production of ballerina chic is a vision of femininity restrained, of a restricted softness that can render its wearer an honoury member of the Ballet Russes.

Take your cue from Riccardo Tisci’s “Gothic Ballerina” couture collection at Givenchy. A contrast between dark and light, between tailored binding and soft feathers created a melancholy Swan song.

Back in reality, pleated skirts are a refreshing alternative to last season’s skater skirts, and create a superior twirl. Give delicate pleating and innocent colours a gothic edge with studded belts and dark tailoring – think phantom of the ballet, not sugar plum fairy.

Frills, pleats and ribbons capture the feminine spirit of the season whilst keeping the look refreshingly ‘different’. Most importantly, this may be the closest I ever get to realising my childhood ‘ballerina’ ambition – I always knew the path was through pretty clothes, not stretches.