Nottingham's Tutu Trend: A Summer of Swirling Style
Hey, fashionistas! Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast and ballet blogger, back with a sizzling update on the latest tutu trends in Nottingham! Summer is officially upon us, and with the warm weather comes a renewed desire to embrace vibrant colours, flowing fabrics, and oh-so-chic outfits – all of which are perfect for letting your inner ballerina shine.
For me, Nottingham is a treasure trove of beautiful boutiques and independent designers who understand the unique allure of the tutu. We’re talking a kaleidoscope of styles – from classic romantic, with its soft, billowing layers, to bold and contemporary, with dramatic lines and pops of colour. This season, we're ditching the demure pink for something a bit bolder, with neon brights, playful prints, and even a touch of boho charm taking centre stage.
Romantic Whimsy: For the ethereal and dreamy soul, Nottingham has got you covered! Belle and Bloom on Pelham Street offers delicate, handcrafted tutus, adorned with exquisite floral embroidery and pastel shades. Their tulle is soft as a cloud and will make you feel like you’re gliding through a fairytale garden. A sweet, pastel pink tutu paired with a simple white t-shirt or blouse and a floral head crown is the ultimate whimsical summer look. And don't forget to accessorise with some dainty floral earrings, because every detail matters!
Modern and Minimalist: But let's face it, some of us prefer a little edge to our dancewear. Solstice Dancewear on Mansfield Road is a gem for those who like a modern, clean aesthetic. Their tutus come in geometric designs, vibrant colour combinations, and with a focus on high-quality materials. The 'Stripes of Style' collection, for example, is an absolute stunner with bold black and white stripes that give a powerful, modern twist to the classic ballerina style. Throw on a fitted black crop top and a pair of white platform sneakers for a fashion-forward look that will make you stand out from the crowd.
Bohemian Rhapsody: Summer 2023 is embracing a bohemian spirit, and what better way to embrace the trend than with a gorgeous, free-flowing tutu? The Tutu Company on Broad Street offers a selection of tutus with flowing, layered fabrics and vibrant floral patterns. Their ‘Festival Fling’ range is particularly captivating, featuring tutus in vibrant shades of turquoise, sunset orange, and warm yellows – perfect for capturing the essence of summer festivals. Layer your tutu over a vintage crochet top or a flowing white maxi dress and add a touch of bohemian charm with layered silver jewellery and a pair of chunky sandals for the ultimate summer bohemian look.
Neon Nights: For a little extra 'oomph', the neon trend is making its mark in Nottingham’s tutu scene. Rainbow Tulle on Goose Gate, an independent online retailer with a storefront, is leading the charge. Their vibrant tutus in colours like electric pink, bright orange, and sunshine yellow will transform you into a captivating ray of sunshine. Layer a neon-toned tutu over a sleek black crop top and add a statement silver necklace for an evening look that is bound to turn heads.
Upcycled Chic: But if you’re environmentally conscious and on a budget, don't worry! A visit to the Nottingham Makers Market on the weekend is an absolute must. This haven for creative souls hosts amazing crafters who breathe new life into vintage textiles. Here, you can find one-of-a-kind tutus made from repurposed fabrics and materials. Combine these beauties with second-hand vintage shirts and a quirky pair of sandals to create an individualistic style that’s both stylish and sustainable.
Making it your own: It's all about individual style, ladies! A tutu doesn't have to be a traditional ballerina outfit. Have fun and be fearless with it.
Here’s my top tips:
* Don't be afraid to experiment with colours, prints, and textures! Embrace bright patterns, quirky motifs, and embrace the latest fashion trends. A graphic tee paired with a soft, tulle tutu in a vibrant shade will give a new twist on street-style fashion.
* Accessories are everything. A wide-brimmed hat adds a touch of elegance and provides shade on hot days, while a colourful bag brightens any ensemble.
* Embrace the imperfections. Tulle tutus are known for their softness and subtle variations, giving them an ethereal quality that should be celebrated.
* Ditch the ballet shoes. Instead, choose from a range of shoes - sneakers, boots, sandals, or flats, allowing you to personalize your look.
Beyond the Look:
More than just fashion, wearing a tutu is about a feeling. It's a statement about confidence, individuality, and creativity. Wearing a tutu empowers you to embrace your inner ballerina, whether you’ve studied dance for years or have just begun to discover the magic of swirling tulle.
So, girls, unleash your inner style guru, get ready to turn heads, and dive into Nottingham’s vibrant tutu scene this summer. And don't forget to tag your awesome tutu looks with #tutustyle #tutufashion! I’ll be featuring some of my favorite looks on my Instagram and blog, so get ready to share your fabulous style with the world.
Let’s keep Nottingham swirling in style!