Tutu fabulous!  Check out Robert Sandla's article, " Bedecked, Bedazzled & Bejeweled: Costume Ornamentation at New York City Ballet ".  It describes in careful detail the construction, maintenance, and love that go into prima ballerinas' costumes at New York City Ballet.  Make sure to scroll through the online exhibition, which includes vintage costumes- many of which were designed by Madame Karinska herself.