Hello, tutu lovers! Emma here, your resident ballerina and fashion enthusiast, ready to take you on a journey through the world of tutus, specifically, the hottest summer styles sizzling in Southampton!
It’s officially summertime, which means it's time to ditch the tights and embrace the glorious sunshine. But even though we’re trading tights for bare legs, our love for tutus doesn't have to fade with the winter chill. The tutu remains a versatile piece, able to effortlessly transform from the ballet studio to summer social gatherings, and in Southampton, there's a burgeoning tutu revolution taking place, embracing the versatility and vibrancy of this timeless garment.
I, for one, am utterly obsessed with tutus – it’s almost an addiction, and the colour pink holds a special place in my heart. Let’s face it, the colour of femininity itself is absolutely divine when incorporated into the world of tutus! Pink tutus just exude charm, sweetness, and a touch of playful sassiness that always gets me in the mood for summer fun.
So, how do we bridge the gap between the classic elegance of a ballet tutu and the relaxed vibes of a summer evening? The key lies in choosing the right style, and exploring materials beyond traditional tulle. Let's dive into the Southampton scene, shall we?
The New-Age Ballerina:
Remember those classic layered tulle tutus you see in ballets like Swan Lake? Those are often dubbed ‘traditional tutus,’ and while undeniably elegant, they can be a bit restrictive for a casual day out. Thankfully, designers in Southampton are taking traditional tutus and adding their own creative flair, injecting elements of modern style that perfectly suit a more laid-back look.
Firstly, there’s a clear movement towards shorter, more playful tutus – think above-the-knee length. Gone are the days of those floor-sweeping traditional designs; now, we’re seeing mini-tutues, allowing freedom of movement and a touch of carefree fun.
For instance, “The Ballerina Boutique” on the High Street boasts a beautiful collection of these “modern tutus.” They’ve incorporated bold colour blocking – imagine a shocking pink top layer cascading into a vibrant turquoise layer, perfect for grabbing attention while grabbing your favourite gelato! And these mini-tutues can easily transition from a dance class to a breezy evening picnic at the beach. Pair them with a loose, oversized top, a denim jacket for those cool evenings, and some dainty summer sandals, and you’re ready to embrace the Southampton sunshine!
For the Flirty and Fun:
Summer screams for a dash of romance, and the right tutu can definitely help achieve that look! Think lace, ruffles, and those beautifully flowy fabrics. Tutus with layered frills of sheer fabric are becoming increasingly popular, offering a look that’s simultaneously glamorous and comfortable. And let’s not forget the iconic colour pink, a staple in any self-respecting summer wardrobe!
Check out "Whimsical Couture" in the heart of Southampton; they specialize in handcrafted tutus with whimsical details, embracing pastel hues and airy textures. Their collection is like stepping into a fairy tale – it’s brimming with those soft pinks and delicate pastel shades, and it's guaranteed to inspire dreams of romantic seaside walks. Imagine yourself strolling through Southampton’s charming cobbled streets, dressed in a pastel pink tutu adorned with delicate white lace detailing. Pure summer romance!
Tutu Time for a Cocktail:
Don't let anyone tell you that tutus can't be worn for a special evening out! A well-chosen tutu can become a striking piece for a glamorous event, and luckily, there’s a shop in Southampton specifically designed for bringing out the party in you! "The Glam Closet" offers an exclusive selection of statement tutus for the more confident dresser.
Think velvet – velvet, darling! Forget the soft textures you'd expect in a traditional tutu; “The Glam Closet” uses luxuriously soft velvet for a dramatic and chic effect. And they’ve incorporated sparkling accents and even sequins, creating an incredible statement piece that can instantly take your cocktail attire from “ordinary” to "WOW!” Imagine a midnight blue velvet tutu with strategically placed crystal accents, and you're guaranteed to turn heads on your next Southampton outing.
And who said sequins couldn't be a part of your summer? Not us! Southampton’s creative minds have combined those dazzling sequins with tutus for a spectacular effect. While sequins were initially reserved for disco nights, they're now used with incredible creativity in tutus for events. One of the shops that's leading the sequin-tutu trend is "Sparkle Boutique" – they even incorporate sequins into sheer fabrics to achieve a mesmerising, starlit effect.
Keeping it Eco-Chic:
Here’s something really important: in an era increasingly conscious of sustainability, Southampton has embraced environmentally-conscious tutu trends. Forget buying new - embrace second-hand and vintage! There are fantastic second-hand clothing shops scattered around Southampton, including the gem called “Vintage Vibes,” where you can often unearth hidden treasures, including vintage tutus just waiting to be repurposed.
If you’re lucky, you might find a genuine vintage tutu, with original designs and timeless elegance. But even if you’re not looking for that old-fashioned vibe, these shops often carry modern tutus in excellent condition that you can pick up for a fraction of the price of a brand new one. Embrace that ethical approach, and get ready to turn some heads in your one-of-a-kind vintage find!
The Takeaway:
From the charming, pastel pinks and whimsical lace of “Whimsical Couture” to the daring velvet creations at “The Glam Closet,” and the eco-conscious finds at "Vintage Vibes," Southampton offers a wide spectrum of tutus catering to every taste and occasion. It’s a testament to the enduring popularity of this timeless garment, which continues to reinvent itself while capturing hearts and attention across the city.
Tutu for Life, Everywhere!:
No longer limited to the ballet studio, the tutu is now making a statement everywhere. Embrace this sartorial revolution. Explore the stores. Embrace your creativity and be ready to dance your way through the vibrant Southampton summer, one tutu at a time!
Let me know what your favourite tutu style is! Tag me in your summer fashion photos using the hashtags #tutustyle #tutufashion so I can see how you're rocking the Southampton look! Until next time, darlings! xx
Emma, Ballet Dancer & Fashionista.
