Hey everyone, it’s Emma here, your local Worthing ballerina and fashionista!
Summer is officially in full swing, and I am so excited about all the sunshine and, of course, the amazing tutus I can wear! We’ve seen some stunning ballet performances over the past few months here in Worthing, and the fashion choices have been incredible. So, I thought I’d put together a little guide to some of the hottest tutu trends gracing our local stages this summer, as well as some top picks for making your own tutu looks as fierce as those onstage.
Embracing Colour: Beyond the Classics
Let’s face it, classic tutus in white and black will always be iconic. But this summer, Worthing is celebrating the boldness of colour! We’re seeing tutus in vibrant shades of pink (of course, my favourite!), cerulean blue, sunny yellow, and even bright emerald green. These vibrant hues make a powerful statement and inject a playful energy into each performance. They also allow for creative combinations and contrasts.
A stunning example I witnessed recently was a choreography featuring tutus in a kaleidoscope of colours. Think layered ruffles, each in a different shade, that gradually bled into each other. This dynamic use of colour really highlighted the intricate movement and story within the performance.
Bringing the Romance: Pastel Dreams
For those who love the traditional charm of ballet tutus but also want a touch of whimsy, there’s a beautiful trend emerging in softer pastels. Imagine delicate peach hues that evoke a romantic, ethereal aura, or dusty rose that adds a hint of drama and intrigue. Lavender tutus have been popping up as well, bringing a sweet and calming aesthetic.
I love how this trend offers a fresh, sophisticated take on the classic tutu, while still allowing for elegance and beauty. It also ties into the recent rise in soft colour palettes in fashion and interiors.
From Stage to Street: Casual Chic
And you don’t need to be on stage to rock a tutu! We're seeing an amazing trend of taking tutu inspiration and reinterpreting it for everyday outfits. Imagine pairing a tulle skirt with a stylishly fitted top and your favourite summer sandals for a playful yet sophisticated look.
Want to go all out? Consider a vibrant, patterned tutu with a graphic T-shirt and white sneakers. There are endless possibilities! You can even create your own tutu from a roll of tulle and tie it around your waist, making it a unique and stylish statement piece. This versatile trend has even seen shops popping up in Worthing dedicated to handmade and customizable tulle garments – it's truly a must-see!
The Art of Texture: Taking Tutu Beyond the Classic
We are beyond the era of the single-layered tulle! This summer, designers are incorporating textured layers and different materials into tutu design to create dynamic and eye-catching looks. We are seeing intricate lace details, silk ribbon layers that cascade down the dancers' legs, and even tulle with holographic textures that shimmer in the light.
I’ve seen tutus that feature soft chiffon layers flowing beneath tulle for an ethereal effect, creating an impression of weightlessness and grace. This movement toward complex textures not only adds visual intrigue but also offers opportunities for more creative and expressive movement on stage.
Embroidered Dreams: Adding Personal Touches
Here’s another trend that I adore - customisation! The beauty of the tutu is that it lends itself so well to individual expression. Many designers and makers are creating bespoke tutus with intricate embroidery, beaded details, or even painted patterns. These personalised designs not only add a touch of uniqueness but also create a dialogue with the narrative of the performance itself.
Think of delicate floral patterns that symbolize a sense of nature or perhaps intricate symbols that reflect a specific theme or story. The possibilities are truly limitless.
Accessorising with Flair
A well-designed tutu needs a statement accessory to elevate its look to the next level. Here, we're seeing a growing trend of bold jewellery like long, delicate chains that complement the tutu's silhouette, chunky necklaces that make a statement even when you’re dancing, or even vibrant hairpieces made of flowers, feathers, or sparkling embellishments.
Adding a splash of sparkle to your hair is also an excellent way to channel the "ballet goddess" vibe. Whether it's a simple bobby pin studded with crystals or a full-on tiara, the right accessory will truly make your tutu look stand out.
Local Designers to Watch:
I couldn't talk about Worthing tutu fashion without shouting out some local talent. These independent makers are truly pushing the boundaries of what a tutu can be.
The Creative Tulle: Owned and operated by a talented young artist, The Creative Tulle offers unique, handmade tutus using locally sourced materials. They specialize in bespoke designs that are tailored to your personal vision, and the quality of their craftsmanship is outstanding.
The Tutu Shoppe: This family-run boutique is a treasure trove of everything tutu. From classic to contemporary styles, they offer a wide range of pre-designed and customizable options. They even have a fantastic selection of tutu accessories, perfect for accessorizing your look.
Threads of Inspiration: They cater to professional dancers with custom designs, but they are also experimenting with bold colours and unique fabrics. It's a hidden gem for those wanting a tutu that truly stands out.
The Tutu Revolution
These are just a few of the exciting tutu trends we're seeing this summer in Worthing! With these bold styles, we are seeing a resurgence of interest in the artistry and expression of ballet fashion, bringing out the inner dancer in all of us. Whether you are an aspiring ballerina, a seasoned performer, or simply a fashion enthusiast, there's no denying that the tutu is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and empower.
Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll be sharing some DIY tips and tutorials for creating your own summer tutu looks! Until then, embrace the trends, be bold, and enjoy the summer sunshine!
#tutustyle #tutufashion #Worthingballet #summerstyle #dancefashion
