Hey everyone! It’s Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast and ballet blogger, ready to bring you the latest on Birmingham’s blossoming spring style scene.
With the first hints of sunshine and warmer days finally gracing our city, it’s time to embrace a new season and, of course, update our wardrobes accordingly! And what better inspiration than the ethereal beauty and delicate grace of ballet fashion?
I'm thrilled to be bringing you a guide to all things tutus and ballet-inspired style for this spring, combining that iconic look with Birmingham's unique charm. We'll delve into the must-have pieces, colour palettes, and ways to embrace this trend from the Birmingham Ballet Centre to your own everyday outfits!
Birmingham, my Ballet Muse
Before we dive into the latest looks, let me tell you why Birmingham holds a special place in my heart when it comes to ballet fashion. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, from world-class performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome to the passionate dancers and classes at Birmingham Royal Ballet. Walking through the streets, you can truly feel the artistic energy that pulses through this city, making it the perfect canvas for sartorial experimentation!
A Touch of Pink
As many of you know, pink is my ultimate spring colour – a gentle nod to the blooming flowers and sunshine! When it comes to tutu-inspired outfits, think pastel shades of blush pink, rose, and even lavender. They add a touch of femininity and softness to any outfit. Whether you opt for a silk blouse in rose or a pink statement tutu skirt for a bolder look, pink is your colour for the season!
The Versatile Tutu: Beyond the Stage
Let's face it, the tutu is a fashion statement in itself! But while its origins lie on the ballet stage, its adaptability allows it to shine in everyday wardrobes. Embrace the beauty of a tutu without compromising on your personal style. Look for modern interpretations like:
Tutu skirts: Available in different lengths and fabrics – tulle, silk, chiffon – and often styled with denim, a graphic tee, or a flowy top, they’re a statement piece that seamlessly blends with any outfit.
Layered Tutus: This trend allows you to create a more dramatic and contemporary look. Experiment with layering tulle over a plain skirt or dress, and add accessories to bring out the dramatic effect.
Taking Inspiration from the Dancers
From the delicate tutus to the chic leotards, there’s an abundance of ballet-inspired fashion that’s more than just a trend – it's a lifestyle! Here are some ideas to bring the elegance of ballet to your everyday look:
1. Leotard and Cardigan Combo
Remember the sleek black leotard from your childhood dance classes? Embrace the classic look by pairing a modern black leotard with a tailored cardigan and stylish ankle boots. You can even swap out the cardigan for a loose-fitting knit sweater, creating a relaxed yet polished look.
2. The Perfect Pointe Shoe Inspiration
If you're aiming for an ultra-feminine and refined look, look no further than ballet's signature footwear – the pointe shoe! While we’ll probably not wear the pointe shoes on the streets (leave that to the professionals!), take inspiration from the iconic style. You can find dainty flats and elegant kitten heels with similar silhouette – a sophisticated addition to any spring ensemble.
3. A Touch of Swan Lake Elegance
Swan Lake is one of my favourite ballets – the story, the costumes, and the iconic white swan attire are truly inspirational! White remains a timeless and elegant colour that translates effortlessly into everyday wear. A crisp white shirt, a flowy white maxi dress, or a classic white T-shirt with a denim jacket – white brings an ethereal touch to any outfit!
4. Balletcore Trend:
For those looking to take the ballet fashion inspiration a step further, the Balletcore trend is all about embracing the graceful silhouettes and soft colours that evoke a ballerina aesthetic. Think delicate fabrics, lace details, ribbons, and even a touch of the ballerina’s famous bun. This is your opportunity to experiment and channel the beauty and grace of your inner ballerina!
Where to Find the Tutu Treasures in Birmingham
Here's a list of my favourite spots in Birmingham where you can find unique pieces to build your own ballet-inspired wardrobe:
For the Ballet Enthusiasts:
Birmingham Royal Ballet Boutique: Located in the Hippodrome Theatre, it offers beautiful and stylish ballet apparel, gifts, and memorabilia. A perfect spot for tutus and other stagewear inspired accessories.
Birmingham Ballet Centre: The studio offers dancewear, shoes, and accessories from a variety of reputable brands, so you can find the perfect gear for both casual and practice sessions.
For the Stylish and Versatile:
The Birmingham Rag Market: Explore the treasure trove of vintage clothing and accessories, where you can uncover vintage tutu skirts, elegant blouses, and quirky pieces that will elevate your everyday look.
Grand Central: The city’s shopping centre hosts several independent fashion boutiques, showcasing a mix of trendy, vintage, and high street brands. Explore these shops for everything from the perfect tutu skirt to delicate accessories that complete your ballerina-inspired look.
Independent Shops: Birmingham's independent fashion boutiques are brimming with unique and stylish pieces to inspire your ballet-inspired outfits! Venture beyond the chain stores and uncover hidden gems with distinctive designs and high-quality fabrics – you never know what treasure you’ll find!
Tutu Styling: Bringing Ballet to Your Everyday Life
I'm always thrilled to see how different people incorporate this trend into their own unique style. From effortless day-to-day outfits to glamorous evenings, here are some ways to make the ballerina aesthetic work for you:
1. Everyday Chic
Tutu + Tee: Combine a blush pink tulle skirt with a simple white T-shirt, sleek black sneakers, and a denim jacket for a relaxed and comfortable day outfit.
Leotard + Denim: Style a black leotard with a pair of high-waisted jeans, adding a classic blazer or bomber jacket. Pair with chunky boots or minimalist trainers to add a touch of edgy coolness.
2. Weekend Vibes
Tutu + Cardigan: Take your tutu from a simple skirt to a statement piece by layering a comfy and cosy knitted cardigan. Pair with trainers or loafers for an effortlessly stylish weekend outfit.
Ballet Inspired Accessories: Embrace the beauty of ballerina style with some dainty accessories. Pearls, delicate necklaces, a pretty scarf, or a sleek beret – these are perfect additions for adding elegance to your casual weekend attire.
3. Evening Glamour
Tutu + Statement Blouse: Dress up a tutu skirt with a statement blouse in silk or velvet. Pair with heels, and add a bold lip for a touch of red carpet drama!
Leotard with Blazer: Turn your ballet leotard into a glamorous night-out look! Style with a sleek black blazer, chic tailored trousers, and heels. Opt for a bright coloured leotard to add a vibrant touch!
Embrace the Beauty and the Inspiration
Remember, ballet fashion is not about following strict rules, it’s about embracing your own personal style! Have fun exploring the unique elements of ballet, incorporate them into your wardrobe, and add a touch of elegance and grace to your spring looks.
Birmingham, you are bursting with fashion inspiration. Let's bring a touch of ballet to every corner of our city! Don’t forget to share your own ballet fashion looks on Instagram with #tutufashion – I can't wait to see what amazing styles you create!
Until next time, happy styling!
Love,
Emma
