This Christmas, I want to be with the ballerinas.

During the holidays, my mother always plays Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, often gushing about her love for the show. Acting as clumsy ballerinas, my brother and I would often "perform" to the music, whether it be on tables or leaping across our bedrooms. Truth be told, I have gotten past a need to criticize the characteristically feminine and not only appreciate, but love ballet and those who perform. With the presence of The Nutcracker and the less classically celebrated Black Swan, I see no reason to not celebrate the look and work of a ballerina. I still have yet to see Natalie Portman's latest triumph and it's absolutely killing me. Marc Jacobs' Spring 2010 collection—inspired by dancers leaving rehearsals in a fashion that is both casual and created—led to my adaptation of what my friends call the "mini-bun," a high bun on top of my head. The beautiful tension between reality and fantasy within that show has yet to let me go from its grasp. This is just one of fashion's many takes on ballet, as it seems to be a recurring infatuation. I know it is for me, whether they be lovely girls in hyper-feminine attire or a naughtier, more twisted version. When I go out tonight—I know it's Christmas—I'll be thinking of the unearthly creatures that look as if they walk on air. While their form of dancing is controlled and disciplined, mine is aggressive and unbridled. Even so, passion will be present. Didn't your mother ever tell you? Dancing can set you free.

The album in question

Karlie Kloss by Tim Walker for Vogue UK






Marc Jacobs Spring/Summer 2010



Karlie Kloss by Dusan Reljin for Vogue Paris



Marc Jacobs Spring



Karlie Kloss by Tim Walker for Vogue UK




Rodarte sketches for Black Swan



Caroline Trentini by Arthur Elgort for American Vogue



Karlie Kloss by Dusan Reljin for Vogue Paris



Valentino Spring/Summer 2011



Natalie Portman by Peter Lindbergh in American Vogue



Karlie Kloss by Dusan Reljin for Vogue Paris



My favorite Tchaikovsky to leap to



Hold me closer tiny dancer...

Classic Vinyl, Runway images via style.com, editorial images via Fashion Gone Rogue, Black Swan images via NY Daily News