Tutu Tuesday 6

Nottingham: Where Ballet Dreams Take Flight Hey everyone! It's your girl, Elara, back with another post, and this time we're taking a little trip to Nottingham. Known for its Robin Hood legacy and historic charm, Nottingham also boasts a vibrant dance scene, with numerous studios, classes, and, of course, shops dedicated to the art of ballet. And let's be real, a ballet dancer can never have too many leotards, tutus, and those oh-so-important pointe shoes, can they? 😉
Pointing Your Toes in Nottingham As someone who’s lived and breathed ballet for as long as I can remember, shopping for everything from basic leotards to professional pointe shoes is a pure joy – and let's be honest, a necessary indulgence! So, where to begin our ballet shopping adventure in Nottingham? Here are a few of my favourite haunts that every ballerina should add to their list!
**For the "Look" That Sets the Tone:** * **The Dance Emporium:** This shop, a true gem tucked away in the heart of Nottingham, is the go-to spot for leotards, tights, and accessories. Think sleek and simple styles in classic colours, like black and pink, but also eye-catching pieces in bright and bold shades for when you want to make a statement on and off the dance floor! And let's not forget their range of adorable little ballet bags! Seriously, you'll want one in every colour! * **Bloomingdales Balletwear:** This store's curated collection of designer balletwear is definitely for the discerning ballerina who values quality and a timeless look. It's the place to find exquisitely designed leotards with intricate detailing and gorgeous tutus in both romantic and modern styles, perfect for performances or a glamorous studio session! If a beautiful ballet bag is on your shopping list, this store has some truly exquisite ones that will add a touch of class to your dance kit!
**When it's All About That Pointe:** * **Dancewear Direct Nottingham:** If it’s about pointe shoes, this is the shop that has your back (or rather, your feet)! With a huge range of popular brands like Bloch, Grishko, and Gaynor Minden, this is where you find that perfect pair to support your feet and help you soar to new heights. The knowledgeable staff is ready and waiting to help you select the right shoe, fit your feet perfectly, and make sure you leave with a smile (and not a bruised toe). 😉 * **Nottingham Dance & Gymnastics:** Located at a handy spot just outside the city centre, this shop caters not only to ballet dancers but to gymnasts as well. But for ballet lovers, it’s worth the trip for the extensive pointe shoe collection, offering something for everyone – from the newbie dancer trying her first pointe shoe to the seasoned professional looking for a specific fit and feel. The friendly team provides personalized fitting advice, making sure you leave confident in your choice.
Beyond Leotards: Tutus, Tutus, and More Tutus! What's a ballerina's dream closet without a fabulous tutu? The ultimate symbol of ballet elegance, tutus come in all shapes and sizes, each adding its unique flavour to a ballet dancer's persona. From the iconic **classic romantic tutus**, featuring layers upon layers of delicate tulle, to the more **modern variations**, with minimalist and asymmetrical styles that accentuate movement and express contemporary choreographies, there's a tutu out there for every taste! And let’s not forget the **ballet pancake** tutu, that playful short, flat-layered design which is all the rage now and is perfect for those fun, whimsical ballets.
**Finding Your Perfect Tutu in Nottingham:** * **Bloomingdales Balletwear:** I mentioned it before, but this store deserves another shout-out for their incredible selection of tutus! You'll find yourself wandering through racks adorned with beautiful pieces, from the traditional romantic tutu with layers and layers of soft tulle to the more contemporary styles. It's truly a dream for any ballerina looking to express their individual style! * **Dancewear Direct Nottingham:** This shop also offers a nice variety of tutus, from the basic tutu ideal for class to those stunning custom-made creations for performances! Their staff is helpful with finding the perfect tutu for your budget and occasion!
Taking the Spotlight: A #ballet Lifestyle in Nottingham From stunning performance spaces like the Royal Concert Hall, the Nottingham Playhouse, and the Broadway Cinema, to local schools and studios like the The Ballet Theatre Nottingham, the Dance Academy of Nottingham, and Dance Nation Nottingham, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the beauty of ballet in Nottingham.
Adding Some Glam to Your Life To really make ballet a part of your everyday life, consider venturing into the wider fashion scene, as Nottingham is a fabulous spot to discover pieces that can be styled for both daily wear and special occasions. You might find the perfect statement dress to add some flair to your post-ballet outing or an elegant jacket that you can wear to your next dance competition.
The Nottingham #ballet Story Don't miss a chance to dive deeper into Nottingham's ballet history. Visit the National Justice Museum and the Museum of Nottingham Life to learn about the fascinating evolution of dance in the city.
Final Touches: From Dance Studio to Chic Street Style Now, it’s not just about the clothes and shoes; it’s about finding the perfect accessories to make your look stand out. From chic tote bags to ballet-inspired jewellery that’s both stylish and a little bit whimsical, Nottingham is a great place to find those essential finishing touches.
**And, Of Course, a Touch of Magic...** There's no denying that a dash of magic comes with shopping for anything ballet related. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just taking your first steps into the world of dance, the stores and studios of Nottingham are a place to find everything you need to make your #enpointe dreams come true!
So, what are you waiting for? Head on down to Nottingham, discover a world of ballet inspiration, and let your dance story unfold.
Stay Tuned! Be sure to follow me on social media, and I’ll be sharing my latest finds and adventures as a dancer! Stay stylish and #ballet forever!