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 ...