Hey lovely readers, Emma here! As the first blossoms start to appear, it feels like the whole world is dancing with a spring in its step. I’m talking sunshine, breezy days, and a feeling of new beginnings – the perfect time to embrace the playful side of fashion! And what says spring better than tutu fashion? Let’s explore the best places to find amazing tutus in Nottingham, plus my top styling tips to create a beautiful, ballet-inspired spring look.
Nottingham – Where Tradition Meets Modern Chic:
Nottingham, with its historic castle, vibrant cultural scene, and youthful spirit, is the perfect backdrop for expressing your inner ballerina! Here are some of my favourite spots for finding gorgeous tutu pieces and adding that extra dose of whimsical style to your spring wardrobe:
For the Tutu Connoisseur:
- The Lace Boutique (101 Mansfield Road): They’re known for exquisite lace fabrics and elegant creations. This shop offers luxurious tulle in a spectrum of colors, ideal for a personalized tutu. Let your imagination take flight and imagine the gorgeous possibilities – imagine a dreamy peach-colored tutu for a garden party, a playful pink tutu for a romantic picnic in the park, or a classic white tutu for a sophisticated soirée.
Thrifting & Secondhand Finds:
- Hockley & Sneinton Market: This bohemian treasure trove offers everything from vintage treasures to designer bargains. I’ve discovered amazing tutu-inspired skirts, playful tulle layers, and funky pieces to elevate your ballet-chic look. I once found a stunning pastel pink tulle skirt here for just a few pounds – I paired it with a plain white tee and white sneakers, perfect for a relaxed daytime outfit.
- Charity Shops: Not only do these stores provide affordable fashion finds, but they also promote sustainability. A trip to one of Nottingham’s numerous charity shops is a guaranteed adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for unique tulle creations that might just be waiting to become your spring statement piece!
Online Shopping Adventures:
- Etsy: A wonderland of handcrafted delights, Etsy has a wide variety of independent designers crafting tutu-inspired garments and accessories. You’ll find delicate ballet slippers with dainty details, gorgeous headbands with pretty embellishments, and custom-made tulle dresses – Etsy offers unique and individual pieces to bring out the creative ballerina in you!
- Depop: Another excellent platform for vintage and pre-loved pieces, Depop connects fashion enthusiasts around the world. It’s the perfect place to source unique vintage tutu-esque skirts and quirky vintage pieces. Depop is also a treasure trove for discovering emerging designers, allowing you to showcase up-and-coming fashion talent while adding a unique touch to your outfit.
From The Ballet Studio to The City Streets:
Styling Your Spring Tutu Look:
Whether you’re creating a fairytale-inspired garden party outfit or adding a playful twist to your casual streetwear, let’s talk about how to seamlessly integrate tutu fashion into your spring wardrobe.
The Ballerina-Inspired Look:
- Tulle Skirt & Oversized Knit: Combine a fluffy tulle skirt in a pale pastel with a soft, chunky knit for a chic and cozy feel. Play with the color scheme, choose a dusky pink, light lavender, or even a muted yellow.
- Pair With Pointed Ballet Flats: Not your average ballerina shoes, pointed ballet flats are a stylish upgrade that complements the femininity of your tutu look.
- Accessories for Glamour: A simple gold necklace with a delicate charm or pearl earrings are the perfect touch of elegance to elevate your look.
- A Pop of Color: A bold bag or brightly colored scarf is a fantastic way to break up a predominantly soft and light color palette.
The City-Ready Outfit:
- Black Leather Jacket & Tulle Mini Skirt: For a daring contrast, combine a black leather jacket with a short, structured tutu-like skirt. This look oozes street style coolness and sophistication!
- Sneakers & Streetwear: Don't shy away from your go-to trainers for this outfit. Pair it with sneakers, platform trainers, or even high-top Converse! This combination brings the perfect balance between ballet-inspired fashion and effortless street style.
- Accessories For Edge: Sunglasses, a small backpack, or a cool crossbody bag completes the city-ready outfit with a casual, on-trend flair.
Daytime Ballet Charm:
- Flowing Tulle Top & High-waisted Jeans: For a romantic touch, wear a flowing, ethereal tulle top paired with your favourite high-waisted jeans. A ruffled or pleated tulle top adds a ballerina touch to your casual daytime look!
- Wedge Sandals or Mules: These footwear options add a feminine twist to your outfit while keeping it comfy and stylish for daytime wear.
- Embracing Color: The vibrant colours of spring inspire pops of colour for this look! A bright tote bag, scarf, or even a bold-coloured phone case adds the perfect pop of color to your ballet-inspired day outfit.
For A Formal Occassion:
- Formal Gown With Tutu Overlap: Add a layer of tulle underneath your elegant gown. A soft blush pink tulle under a shimmering gold gown or a delicate white tulle skirt under a midnight blue gown creates a dazzlingly ethereal look, perfect for a special occasion.
- Jewellery for Elegance: Statement jewellery such as pearl earrings, delicate bracelets, or an elegant necklace completes the formal ballet-inspired look.
- Heeled Pumps or Strappy Sandals: To match the elegance of a formal dress, add a touch of elegance with high-heeled pumps or stylish, strappy sandals for the ultimate evening ballerina style!
A Reminder Of Elegance & Femininity:
Whether it’s for a formal affair, a casual day out, or even just a little inspiration in your daily wardrobe, the elegance of tutu fashion and the graceful fluidity of ballet have an irresistible charm. This spring, don’t hesitate to embrace the delicate whimsy of tulle and add your own unique ballet-inspired twist!
tutufashionAbout Emma:
I'm Emma, a twenty-something ballerina and lover of all things fashion. I believe in using style to express yourself and find your unique flair. I live and breathe tutus, find endless inspiration in the graceful world of ballet, and enjoy nothing more than exploring the latest trends and turning them into my own personal fashion statements! Follow my journey as I share my favourite finds, styling tips, and inspirations on Instagram! You can find me @emmastylez
Final Note:
Don't be afraid to experiment! It’s all about finding what makes you feel comfortable and confident. It’s your style – embrace your own interpretation of ballerina chic and make it your own! Remember to follow my journey, and let’s all channel our inner ballet stars this spring! 🩰🌸✨
Remember, in fashion there are no rules – just endless opportunities to create something unique and magical. And in the end, isn’t that what makes fashion so wonderfully exciting? Stay stylish and stay inspired! 💖
