Hey fellow twirlers and fashionistas! Emma here, back with another dive into the world of tutu fashion. As the sun shines and the days lengthen, our dancewear choices naturally turn towards lighter, brighter, and more breezy styles. But fret not, summer's heat doesn't mean sacrificing style - in fact, it's a perfect opportunity to showcase a bolder, more colourful tutu repertoire.
Today, I'm focusing on summer tutus, and my journey takes us right here to Highbury, a vibrant hub of London life and a haven for ballet lovers. Itâs here, amongst the quaint boutiques and charming cafĂ©s, that we find some true sartorial gems when it comes to tutus.
Highburyâs Tutu Treasures: The Search for Summer Sparkle
For me, the heart of tutu shopping in Highbury lies in a quaint little boutique tucked away on Highbury Place called "The Ballerina's Closet." It's like stepping into a vintage fairytale â a treasure trove of dancewear with stunning tutus from classic to modern, all impeccably curated. Itâs where I found my current summer obsession â a playful, vibrant pink tulle skirt that just screams âsun-kissed twirls!â
Let's break down some of my favourite summer tutu trends I've spotted in Highbury:
1. Pink Perfection: As a self-proclaimed "pink princess", I couldn't start without celebrating pink â a colour synonymous with summer and fun. There's something absolutely magical about a pink tutu, especially on a bright sunny day. Pink embodies femininity and sweetness, making it the ultimate girly summer statement. Look for a range of shades from pastel pinks, which give off a soft, delicate aura, to hot pink, which provides a striking and dynamic contrast against your tanned skin. For my Highbury explorations, I fell head over heels for a dusky rose tutu from "The Ballerina's Closet", with a hint of shimmer that simply captivated.
2. Layering & Texture: Adding layers to your tutu is a brilliant way to enhance texture and dimension. Try layering a tulle skirt over a satin leotard for a flowing, romantic silhouette, or experiment with delicate lace or chiffon inserts to add visual interest. For my Highbury outing, I chose to wear a layered tulle tutu, playing with differing textures and weights. This creates a dreamy, multidimensional effect.
3. Playful Prints: While tutus are traditionally associated with smooth, solid colours, summer welcomes a splash of print! Think floral designs, vibrant geometric patterns, or even tropical motifs to make a bold statement.
4. Sun-Drenched Silhouettes: Summers are all about lightness and airiness. Embrace shorter lengths, for a fresh, energetic feel, or consider a longer tutu in a super-light fabric, like organza, to allow for greater movement and comfort. The "Ballerina's Closet" even carried a charming line of ruffled, bohemian tutus, perfect for that airy, summery feel.
5. Bold Embellishments: Give your tutus a touch of glitz and glam! Embellishments, like strategically placed sequins or delicate beads, are sure to add a bit of summery sparkle. I found a pair of sequin-studded tutu tights at a vintage shop near the Highbury Corner Library - the perfect way to inject some playful sparkle into your summer look!
6. Footwear Fit for a Fairytale: The beauty of the tutu lies in its versatility. Pair it with a range of footwear options, from classic pointe shoes to comfy canvas ballet flats. I adore summery ballet slippers in pastel colours, or even whimsical, lace-up sandals for a more casual vibe. For those daring enough, a pair of ballet pumps, adorned with some statement ribbons, can also work wonderfully.
A Dance Around Highbury's Charm
Exploring Highburyâs tutu scene has truly ignited my love for summer style. Iâve discovered a community brimming with both passion and creativity â a vibrant reminder that ballet can be a joyous and fashion-forward experience, even during the summer months.
As you delve into your summer style adventures, remember to embrace colour, experiment with layers, and infuse a touch of fun into every twirl! Whether youâre hitting the stage, taking class, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk through the park, Highbury promises a world of possibilities for your summer tutu fashion. Don't forget to share your creations with me using the hashtag #tutustyle #tutufashion ! Happy twirling, and remember, the best style is one that feels fabulous.
P.S. If you're ever in Highbury, I highly recommend checking out the âBallerinaâs Closetâ on Highbury Place - it's truly a treasure trove for the fashion-forward ballerina. Let me know in the comments if you have any other tutu shops in Highbury youâd like to recommend!
