Hello lovely people! Emma here, your resident tutu-obsessed, ballet-loving fashionista. It's finally spring, and my heart is singing! With warmer weather comes blossoming flowers, sunshine and… you guessed it, the chance to break out our fabulous tutu outfits!
Hastings, with its charming seafront, quirky independent shops, and breath-taking coastal scenery, provides the perfect backdrop for embracing this whimsical style. This week, we’re focusing on taking the classic ballet-inspired look and transforming it for the spring season.
Let's get into it!
The Quintessential Spring Tutu Outfit
This look is all about airy, romantic textures, and fresh, spring colours. Picture it:
- A flowy, tiered maxi-skirt in a soft pink hue: Look for skirts with delicate floral patterns or pastel prints. The tiered layers create a beautiful movement when you walk, echoing the graceful flow of a ballet dancer's skirt. (Find these beauties at the quirky shop ‘Bohemian Blooms' on George Street.)
- A delicate crop top or bralette: Choose something that complements your skirt and has a feminine silhouette. (Shop "Indie Threads" on the High Street for cute, versatile crop tops.)
- A fitted cardigan: The perfect way to add a touch of warmth without hiding those gorgeous lines. Pick a light knitted cardigan in white, beige or even lavender for that perfect spring vibe.
- Tutu touches: For the ultimate tutu inspiration, choose a pale pink or nude ballet wrap-around skirt for that "en pointe" style, or add a soft, pink ribbon tied around your waist. You can find some truly lovely ballet accessories in ‘Vintage Charm' on Priory Road, which is well worth a look.
- Shoes: Go for comfy flats like ballet pumps or pretty sandals. They add a touch of elegance without sacrificing comfort. A light, floral print or bright pink colour can add a splash of colour. (‘Shoes and Soles’ is my go-to for gorgeous ballet flats on the High Street.)
- Finishing Touches: This is where you can really have some fun! Add a delicate silver necklace, pearl earrings or even a cute pink headband with a flower embellishment. If you want to add a pop of colour, look for a bright pink scarf or a stylish handbag.
Don't be afraid to experiment! Mix and match colours and patterns, try out different fabrics, and find what makes you feel most confident and beautiful.
Let's Talk About Details!
It’s all in the detail when it comes to tutu fashion! These elements will give your outfit a ballerina feel and make you feel ready to take on the spring sunshine:
1. The Power of the Ribbon: Ribbons are your new best friend!
* Hair Ribbons: A simple ribbon tied in a bow or woven into a braid gives you a classic ballerina look. Choose silk or satin ribbons in blush pink, pale green or a muted purple for a softer aesthetic.
* Waist Ribbons: A satin ribbon tied at the waist, accentuating your figure and giving your look a ballerina touch.
* Handbags: Look for totes with ribbon detailing, a bright pink ribbon as the handle, or a classic ribbon-tie fastening. (I recently picked up a stunning handbag with a ribbon strap in "The Frock Shop" on Pelham Place).
2. Tulle: You can't go wrong with tulle! * Add a tutu: Go full ballerina and wear a classic, fluffy tulle tutu. (I swear, "Pretty Things" on the High Street always has the most incredible tutus!) Or use a tulle skirt underneath a maxi-skirt for extra volume. * Tulle Scarf: Drape a light tulle scarf around your neck. I love a lavender shade for a pastel-perfect touch. * Hair Accessories: Embellish a hair band with tulle or look for pretty tulle flower accessories for the ultimate springtime touch. (Try "Hair Fair" on Havelock Road – you won't be disappointed!).
3. The Perfect Hair: This is where ballet influences the tutu style and looks fresh for spring. * Buns: Effortless, classic and perfect for all hair lengths. Experiment with messy buns or high buns adorned with hairpins and delicate accessories. * Braids: Dutch braids, French braids, fishtail braids, the possibilities are endless! Braid hair down the back for a sleek look or opt for a playful braid crown for a whimsical finish. * Loose waves or curls: A soft and natural look that’s perfect for warm spring days.
Shopping Adventures in Hastings
Hastings is full of delightful shops that can help you put together the perfect tutu outfit.
- Vintage Finds: Check out "The Frock Shop" for a vintage fashion inspiration with everything from pastel sundresses to silk scarves. You'll discover gorgeous pieces you can easily style with tutu accessories.
- For Unique Designs: “Indie Threads" has fantastic statement tops and separates you can combine with the classic skirt for an alternative look.
Statement Jewelry: "Precious Things" is great for statement pieces to complement your ensemble with vibrant floral brooches or delicate silver necklaces that are perfect for the romantic tutu look.
Tutu Fashion Inspiration for Hastings:
The Pier Promenade: Take a walk along the iconic Hastings Pier in your tutu-inspired ensemble. Embrace the salty air and ocean breeze as you strut your stuff in your flowy skirt and ballet-inspired shoes. This location will make your photos come alive!
- A Relaxed Picnic in the Park: Grab your picnic basket and find a picturesque spot in the gardens of Alexandra Park. Wear your most comfy tutu-inspired pieces with some flats, and enjoy the scenery. It’s the perfect place for a beautiful photoshoot.
- Shopping Day in the Old Town: Explore the vibrant alleys and streets of the Hastings Old Town. Put on your most eye-catching tutu skirt with a flowy top and enjoy browsing the quaint independent shops. This colourful setting provides the perfect backdrop for capturing photos with your amazing outfit!
Don’t forget to tag #tutufashion and #hastingslife when sharing your gorgeous tutu-inspired spring looks!
This spring, it's time to channel your inner ballerina and embrace the beauty of the tutu! Remember, the most important part of this trend is feeling confident and embracing your own personal style. Let your personality shine through in every outfit!
Happy tutu-ing, lovely people!
