Hey lovelies! It's me, your girl Chloe, back with another blog post. The sun's shining, the birds are singing (and I'm trying to ignore the sound of my mum's lawnmower), so let's talk about what really gets me excited: summer fashion and tutus, darling!
Ashington might not be known as a fashion capital, but we've got some serious style potential hiding amongst the cobbled streets and chip shops. Now, I know what you're thinking: "Tutus? In Ashington? You're mental, Chloe." But hear me out, because I'm going to show you how to bring a touch of ballet magic into your summer wardrobe, without looking like you just escaped the Royal Ballet (although, if that's your vibe, by all means, go for it!).
A Colourful Canvas
Summer is the time to embrace all the bright and beautiful hues nature throws at us, and that's exactly what we're doing with our tutus! Forget those boring, dusty-rose numbers. Think vibrant coral, lemon yellow, and my personal favourite, pink - the more the merrier! Let's inject some much-needed colour into our daily outfits and channel that playful summer energy.
Now, I know some of you might be hesitant about a full-on tutu look, but there are tons of ways to incorporate this delicate dancewear staple into your everyday style without going full-on ballerinas.
A Touch of Tutu Magic
For a casual look, think about adding a simple tulle skirt or a tiered tulle top. You can pair these with a simple t-shirt, jeans, and sandals for a daytime picnic in the park. If you're going for a more dressed-up vibe, try a long tulle skirt with a tucked-in blouse and a pair of wedges. And let's not forget the accessories, darling! A tulle hair scarf, a delicate tulle bag, or a tulle bracelet will add just the right touch of whimsy and elegance.
A Celebration of Personal Style
This isn't just about following trends; it's about expressing yourself and celebrating your unique personality through your fashion choices. A little tulle goes a long way, and it allows you to inject a sense of fun and playfulness into your look.
Where to Shop in Ashington
And here’s the fun part: you don't have to fly to London to find your perfect tutu fix!
Ashington Market: This is where I found my favourite, sparkly pink tulle skirt, hidden amongst the fruit stalls and handmade crafts. It was a steal! Remember to be a bit of a detective, because sometimes the most magical treasures are hiding in the unexpected places.
The little independent boutiques on Station Road: These havens are full of surprises and always stock something a little bit special, whether it's a vintage tulle scarf or a cute handmade tulle necklace.
Secondhand shops: I know, I know - some of you might cringe at the thought of buying secondhand, but trust me, it's the best way to score unique pieces at amazing prices. I've found some of my favourite tulle skirts and tops in vintage shops.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a tutu and let’s turn Ashington into a summertime wonderland!
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram for all the latest fashion finds, outfit inspo, and dance adventures.
Until next time, my lovelies, remember to always stay fabulous!
#tutustyle #tutufashion
Chloe's Style Tip: A splash of colour goes a long way in summer. I love incorporating bright pink into my outfits, and it always lifts my mood. Don't be afraid to experiment with bold colours and embrace your inner style icon.
Dance-Inspired Fashion: A Ballet Ballerina's Take on Street Style
Okay, so we’ve discussed the tutu magic and all, but let's take it up a notch and really talk about dance-inspired fashion! As a ballet dancer, I see the beauty and versatility in traditional dancewear, and it’s just begging to be translated into everyday fashion!
Leotards are not just for the studio: Let's be honest, leotards have come a long way! Forget those itchy, restrictive, one-size-fits-all styles from your childhood. Nowadays, you can find chic leotards in luxurious fabrics with trendy details and cuts. Imagine pairing a fitted, silky leotard with a pair of wide-leg trousers and chunky sneakers for a cool, androgynous vibe. Or, throw on a blazer for a sophisticated, city-chic look!
Ballet flats can be chic: Who needs boring pumps? Ballet flats offer elegance with an effortless, casual touch. Choose them in unique colours like powder blue, metallic silver, or even with embellishments like beads or lace details. They'll look perfect paired with summery midi dresses, flowy skirts, or denim cut-offs.
Embrace the mesh: You know those soft mesh skirts we dancers love to wear for warm-up and cool-down? They’re having a moment! This comfortable and breezy fabric can be styled in so many ways. Throw a mesh skirt over a pair of skinny jeans, wear it as a layering piece over a flowy dress, or pair it with a cropped top for a casual yet chic look.
Play with textures and embellishments: Dancers adore ballet-inspired embellishments! Think delicate rhinestones, sequins, and floral details - perfect for a summery vibe. Add a touch of these details to your outfits. Think a sparkly headband, a sequined bag, or a dress adorned with a floral pattern. You can even DIY by adding your own sparkle to your existing clothes!
Stay active and fashionable: Don't underestimate the power of athletic wear. Look for sports bras and leggings in stylish colours and prints. Throw on a oversized sweater and a pair of fashionable sneakers and you're ready to conquer anything!
It’s all about comfort and confidence: Just like a dancer who has to feel comfortable in their movements, fashion is all about feeling confident and free to express yourself! So choose outfits that feel good and empower you to twirl through your day with grace and style.
More Style Inspiration in Ashington
Looking for some more local style inspiration? Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and experiment!
- Follow the local fashion bloggers on Instagram: Keep your eye out for stylish Ashington ladies on social media and get your dose of local fashion inspiration.
- Check out the windows of independent boutiques: These shops are full of character and offer a unique range of clothing that you won't find in the big chain stores.
- Embrace a DIY spirit: If you have a crafty side, don't be afraid to put your own personal touch on your wardrobe by upcycling old clothes, adding unique embellishments, or creating your own dance-inspired fashion pieces!
Remember, darling: Fashion is a powerful way to express yourself and tell your story. Embrace your inner ballerina, have fun, and let your style shine!
#tutustyle #tutufashion #ashingtonfashion
Let’s Go Shopping!
It's time for a little retail therapy adventure right here in Ashington. Let's discover some secret fashion gems and unearth those perfect tutu finds.
1. Ashington Market
It's not all vegetables and freshly baked bread, you know. The market holds secrets, darlings! Remember the pink tulle skirt I mentioned earlier? It was found right here, amongst the lively hustle and bustle. Don't be afraid to peek inside stalls that might not be your usual suspects, you never know what treasures you’ll uncover.
2. Station Road - A Street of Fashion Potential
This street is brimming with independent boutiques that are crying out for a bit of a dance-inspired makeover. Imagine finding the perfect sequined ballet flat, or a flowy chiffon skirt, tucked away in a corner. This street is an invitation for exploration - be prepared to dig for your unique finds!
3. Secondhand Shops: Treasures of the Past
Secondhand shopping isn’t just for grandma’s knits and charity shop finds anymore. You can discover true hidden gems - think vintage tulle dresses, lace tops, and even the most amazing pairs of vintage ballet flats, just waiting to be brought back to life!
4. Online Shops with a Touch of Ballet Magic
We’ve explored Ashington, but don’t be afraid to widen your horizons. Some of my favourite online boutiques stock ballet-inspired clothing, dancewear, and accessories. And remember - sometimes the magic of shopping is in finding your unique style, wherever you may be!
But Wait! There’s More…
Here’s a little tip for turning any of your usual outfit into a ballerina-inspired dream:
The Power of the Tulle Scarf: This little beauty adds instant whimsy and can transform your basic outfit. Wrap it around your hair, use it as a belt, or drape it casually around your shoulders.
Bejeweled Accessories: This is a perfect way to elevate your look without going overboard. A jeweled headband, a bracelet with a sparkling ballerina charm, or a sparkly clutch can take you from simple to stylish in a heartbeat.
The Elegance of Ballet Flats: It's almost impossible to talk about dance-inspired fashion without mentioning the magical power of ballet flats! These are a timeless piece that effortlessly bridges the gap between casual and chic.
DIY Tulle Fun!
Ready to take your fashion skills up a notch? Why not create your own tulle masterpieces at home?
Tulle-Top Transformations: Take an old t-shirt and layer tulle over the top. Tie it off at the back, and bam! - instant tutu-inspired summer style.
Sew Your Own Skirt: A little bit of fabric, a sewing machine, and a little bit of imagination, and you’ll have a custom-made tulle skirt in no time.
Headband with a Twist: Cut some tulle into strips and tie it around a basic headband for a sparkly headpiece that will give your outfit some balletic pizzazz.
Ashington: A Style Destination in the Making?
So there you have it! From the market stalls to the local boutiques, Ashington might just be the perfect place to discover your inner fashionista and let your unique style shine.
Remember, ladies: Tutu style is more than just wearing tulle! It’s about bringing a sense of fun, femininity, and movement to your fashion. And, it's a perfect excuse to twirl your way through summer with a sprinkle of ballet magic.
Now get out there and show the world that even in Ashington, you can have a touch of Tutu-licious fun!
#tutustyle #tutufashion #ashingtonfashion #tulletime #balletinspiredfashion #stylewithastyle #localfashionfinds #diyfashion
