Hello lovely ballet bunnies! Emma here, back with another post about my favourite thing in the world - tutus! As the air starts to crisp and the leaves begin their colourful transformation, I get an overwhelming urge to wear tutus all the time. Autumn just begs for swirling skirts and playful movement.
This time I'm focusing on Ottawa - the stunning capital of Canada, with its historic charm and amazing parks, it's the perfect location to experiment with autumn-inspired ballet style. And don't even get me started on the beautiful photo opportunities in Gatineau Park, just a hop skip and jump away.
Let's get straight into it!
Autumnal Hues
My absolute favourite colour for autumn is definitely pink. I know, you're probably thinking 'pink for autumn?!' Hear me out, though! Pink has this beautiful soft quality that pairs wonderfully with the deep, rich shades of the changing leaves.
Think blush pinks for a subtle touch or vibrant magenta for a more dramatic statement. And don't be afraid to embrace a bit of fiery coral or rose for an autumnal twist! These tones complement the rust, brown, and yellow hues of nature flawlessly.
Fabric of Dreams
Now let's talk fabric. I’m a big fan of lightweight materials like chiffon and silk - they swirl so beautifully. Imagine the perfect fall day: crisp, fresh air and you’re twirling around a beautiful park, your tulle tutu dancing with the leaves. Heaven!
But it's not all about flimsy fabrics. Let's not forget the classics – tulle and satin. Both offer a graceful flow but are slightly more structured, so you'll be ready for the chilly weather with extra layers. For extra warmth, a beautiful, rich velvet or even a soft, supple corduroy could work beautifully for autumnal looks, offering warmth and textural interest.
Twirling Tutus
A tutu is an absolute must! It's the ultimate dance-inspired fashion item. Now, if you're venturing into the wild for your fashion fix, it's crucial to find a practical tutu that won't snag on branches. I love a mid-length, simple-structured tutu that gives a ballerina silhouette. Or, embrace the layers with a tiered, romantic style that provides plenty of movement and doesn't hold you back from exploring. And speaking of exploring...
Where to Find Your Ballet Fashion Fix
For the adventurous shopper, I recommend The ByWard Market. With its vibrant, independent spirit and diverse collection of boutiques, you'll be able to find everything you need to style your autumnal ballet look. My go-to spot there is Threadbare, a wonderful shop filled with statement pieces. You can always find vintage dresses or a whimsical fabric that would make the perfect tutu hack. And, trust me, the staff are excellent at helping you find that unique piece to bring your look to life!
Then there's the stunning Westboro Village with its unique boutique scene, filled with independent fashionistas. There, Black Sheep Boutique is a favourite. It's brimming with modern pieces that blend playful prints and textures with modern, sophisticated lines. They've also got a fantastic selection of funky vintage finds that scream ballerina-chic and make your own fashion dreams come true!
Finally, no trip to Ottawa would be complete without a visit to the National Gallery of Canada. Its exquisite architectural beauty provides a striking backdrop for ballet fashion - not to mention it has several clothing exhibits for serious fashion inspiration! Plus, the Gallery Shop always has a curated selection of fashion books and art prints. Just walking through there inspires my artistic side!
Style Staples
For the quintessential ballet look, we can't forget the essentials!
Leotard: This is the core of your outfit, perfect for adding a touch of elegant drama. If you’re going for a full ballet-inspired ensemble, you can pair your leotard with a matching skirt. But a black or ivory leotard also pairs perfectly with denim or leather pants for an off-duty ballerina look!
Oversized Knitwear: This season's must-have for layering! Choose a chunky knit for an oversized feel that accentuates a ballerina's long lines or try a cosy cable knit for an extra dash of autumnal charm.
Chic Footwear: From chic ballet flats to luxurious boots, this is where you can play with styles! You can embrace a vintage-inspired Mary Jane, or, for something a little bolder, you could opt for ankle boots - the perfect statement for a tutu or even a sleek midi dress!
Bold Statement Jewellery: Don’t be shy to let your inner style queen shine. Think layered necklaces and chunky earrings!
Dramatic Makeup: A classic ballet makeup look is definitely not out of place. If you feel comfortable rocking red lipstick and smoky eyes, why not embrace a little extra drama for your autumn look?!
Tutu for Any Occasion
Don't limit yourself to special events - tutus are totally wearable on a daily basis. Think about these ways to embrace your inner tutu girl this fall:
Weekday Glamour: Opt for a more subtle approach with a short tutu paired with your favourite leggings and a long, flowing shirt. And those black boots? Totally acceptable.
Autumnal Picnic: Pack up your wicker basket, lay down your blanket, and have yourself a delightful picnic. A romantic midi-length tutu paired with a light cardigan or fluffy jumper provides comfort and elegance for the occasion.
Coffee Date: Embrace a comfortable-chic approach for your afternoon latte with a layered tulle skirt paired with an oversized knitted jumper. Let your hair down and have fun with your outfit! Don't forget those statement earrings for a glamorous finish!
A Day of Art: The National Gallery or any local art gallery is a perfect location to admire artistic genius and appreciate a great tutu outfit!
Theatrical Night Out: See a dance show, musical, or theatrical performance and embrace the excitement of your outfit for a memorable night.
Remember: Your own individual style is your superpower!
Have fun mixing and matching to create unique outfits that showcase your personality. Explore your favourite colours, textures, and accessories to curate the ultimate autumnal look. Embrace the joy of dance, movement, and the transformative energy of this magical season! And be sure to tag your beautiful tutu looks with #tutufashion. I can't wait to see what you come up with!
