Hey fellow twirlers! Your girl Amelia here, back with a dose of fashion and, of course, the one thing that makes my heart do a grand jeté - TUTUS! As the sun starts to bake those British pavements, and the smell of barbeques fills the air, I find myself reaching for the ultimate summer accessory: a gloriously pink tutu.
And what better place to start my tutu journey than Stretford? This charming town, nestled in Greater Manchester, might be known for its history, but it's quickly becoming a haven for fashion lovers, including those who adore the dreamy world of tutus.
Let's Get Real About Stretford’s Style
I've always found Stretford to have a certain understated cool. Think independent boutiques brimming with unique pieces and those charming little cafes serving up dreamy lattes, all while offering a fantastic escape from the city hustle. It's a place that embraces a personal style - and, for me, that definitely involves tutus!
Where to Find Your Tutu Dream in Stretford
Finding the perfect tutu can be like finding the perfect pointe shoe - you need just the right fit, the right style, and most importantly, the right colour (you know pink is always the right choice). Stretford has some gems waiting to be discovered:
The Little Sewing Room: Nestled on a quaint side street, this place is a haven for bespoke tailoring and creative sewing. Think personalised tutus that perfectly capture your individual style - and the perfect opportunity to explore fabrics beyond tulle! Let's face it, a gorgeous satin lining adds a touch of luxury to any tutu.
The Vintage Emporium: Okay, so this is a total treasure trove for finding amazing vintage pieces. Imagine discovering a vintage ballet costume tucked away amongst a collection of 80s frocks! It's not always easy to find vintage tutus, so imagine the thrill of discovering one at The Vintage Emporium - think elegant layers of silk, beautiful colours, and even a touch of nostalgic sparkle.
The Independent Crafts Market: Held every second Saturday of the month in the town square, this market is a feast for the senses. From hand-crafted jewellery to stunning knitted scarves, you never know what artistic treasures you might stumble upon. Look out for local craftspeople who are repurposing and reinventing materials. Perhaps you’ll find a recycled-tulle treasure, offering a beautiful balance between style and sustainability.
Tutu Inspiration for the Summer Season
I’m a firm believer that every tutu has its own personality, and summer calls for playful, colourful, and slightly bohemian vibes.
Here's my take on styling the summer tutu, embracing Stretford's cool and keeping it on the lighter side:
1. The Ballerina Chic: A simple classic tulle tutu in pale pink, layered with a white vintage blouse or oversized t-shirt. I love this combo - it creates a sense of elegance but allows the tutu to shine. It's an outfit perfect for those afternoon picnics in Stretford’s scenic park.
2. The Bohemian Princess: A flowy, multi-layered tutu in shades of pink, adorned with delicate flowers. Imagine a bright coral, fuschia, and soft pink layering – dreamy, right? Add a flowy, crocheted cardigan or a floral crown, and embrace a vintage look that speaks to the free spirit in all of us.
3. The Sunset Soiree: A bold fuchsia tutu paired with a sleek black tank top and platform sandals for a touch of summer elegance. Perfect for a summer evening enjoying the sunset over the Stretford Arndale Centre.
Don’t Forget: The Perfect Tutu Accessories
Just like ballet itself, a great tutu is only half the story - accessorising it elevates the whole look to a new level. I love these:
- Statement Earrings: Choose bright and playful designs – think sparkly chandeliers, or colourful, quirky, statement drops, and don’t be afraid of bold colours to really compliment your tutu.
- A Classic Ballet Bun: Okay, it’s a no brainer! Let’s be honest, a bun never goes out of fashion, and when teamed with a stunning tutu, it’s a perfect blend of sophistication and charm.
- Sparkly Pink Shoes: For a summer evening out, I adore a silver or gold glitter sandal. This is how you add a glamorous touch while letting your tutu be the star of the show.
- A Floral Headband: Perfect for picnics or shopping in the quaint boutiques, a headband creates a playful bohemian touch and ties the outfit together.
Stretford’s Tutu Revolution: From the Ballet Studio to the Streets
Stretford has this charming ability to seamlessly blend a love for fashion, culture, and those who have a little twirl in their heart. This is what I love - embracing tutus beyond the ballet studio. This summer, embrace your inner ballerina, get your own pink tutu fix, and make your own statement. Remember, when it comes to tutus, Stretford truly is the perfect setting. So, whether you’re just a casual admirer of this glamorous attire or a passionate tutu enthusiast, Stretford has you covered, and that’s just beautiful.
And please, do tag me on Instagram, your twirling partner in crime, at #Amelia’sBalletStyle!
tutustyle #tutufashion