Hey fellow dance lovers! Emma here, your local ballet enthusiast and self-proclaimed tutu queen! Manchester is buzzing with a vibrant dance scene, and let's be honest, the most exciting part of the whole thing? The tutus! Summer's here, the sun's shining (most days, anyway!), and we're all about light and breezy styles.
Today, we're going to delve into the fabulous world of tutus that are taking Manchester by storm this summer. Think lightweight fabrics, bold colours, and designs that will make you twirl with joy! So grab your favourite cuppa (mine's Earl Grey, obviously!), put on your comfy PJs (yes, even I indulge in loungewear!) and get ready to be swept away by the beauty and artistry of Manchester's summer tutu scene.
The Classics with a TwistFirst, we have to pay homage to the classics, right? Let's talk about the quintessential "swan lake" tutu. The graceful, elegant silhouette, with its layers of tulle that cascade beautifully – pure ballet magic. But, what if I told you that you could give this timeless design a contemporary edge? That's where Manchester’s dancewear boutiques excel! Think vibrant colours. Instead of traditional white or pink, imagine a stunning electric blue or even a sunny, cheerful yellow!
Manchester's shops are bursting with stunning, coloured tulle options, even sparkly and holographic designs, offering a delightful way to breathe fresh life into the classic look. It's a fantastic way to add personality and individuality, whilst keeping it true to the traditional shape.
The Bold and BeautifulNow, for the daring tutu lovers – this is where the real fun begins! This season, the trend is all about statement designs. Think bold colours, unexpected textures and unique embellishments. Gone are the days of soft pastels, and we're saying a hearty "Hello!" to bright neon pinks and luminous turquoise.
Remember that shimmering ombre tutu you’ve seen on stage? Well, now it's time to embrace it off-stage too! With Manchester’s independent designers and boutique shops offering some incredible gradient and ombré styles. We're seeing tulle changing from the standard stiff layers to flowing fabrics that almost ripple in the wind. Imagine graduating from deep scarlet red into fiery orange, then into soft peach hues, it's a real show-stopper!
Beyond the Traditional TulleLet’s step away from the traditional tulle for a minute and embrace something entirely new. Alternative fabrics are where it’s at! Imagine lightweight silk, silky chiffon, or even a modern take on the classic with cotton. These alternative fabrics add a "summery, boho vibe," which can be styled in a million different ways!
Think flowy, almost dress-like styles, perhaps paired with a cute crop top or a vintage band tee. Manchester’s vintage shops are brimming with exciting ideas and options! This look embraces the comfort and style of the season, adding a contemporary edge to the classic ballet aesthetic.
DIY Tutu MagicAnd lastly, if you’re the adventurous kind, Manchester's got you covered for DIY creations! Let’s talk customising your tutus! There's nothing quite as satisfying as making something with your own two hands, and creating the perfect summer tutu is no exception.
From local craft stores offering amazing colour options to handmade embroidery designs you can find online, there’s a wealth of inspiration available. Think adding those shimmering sequined flowers, incorporating statement fabric patches, or experimenting with different lace styles. Let your creative juices flow, let your personality shine! There are endless ways to inject your personal flair and make your tutu as unique as you are.
Where to Shop in ManchesterHere are a few places to begin your tutu journey, in no particular order, as I think each place is special in its own right!
The Manchester Dance Shop: Offers a fabulous selection of tutus for beginners, professionals, and everything in between.
Dancers Dream: They cater to ballet, modern dance, and even tap! If you are looking for the traditional ballet aesthetic, or something a little less traditional they have the perfect option!
Miss Tilly's Vintage Boutique: This place is a vintage lovers dream! This gem has unique fabric options and beautiful antique embroidery options perfect for DIY tutu customization projects!
Etsy: An amazing source for finding everything you need for your DIY tutu projects – fabrics, embellishments, and even tutorial videos!
The Manchester Arndale: Offers many high street shops like Primark (a must-visit!) and Topshop to inspire you and find those gorgeous tulle skirts to use as a base for your own design.
*The Manchester scene is more than just dance classes, it’s a vibrant community where fashion and creativity intertwine! * And in this community, the tutu is more than just a garment – it’s a symbol of creativity, individuality and self-expression.
So embrace your inner ballerina! Let's go forth, twirl our way into the summer sunshine, and keep those tutu trends coming!
#tutustyle #tutufashion #balletfashion #manchester
