Leotard Fashion 29

Ilford: A Leotard Paradise

Hey guys, it's your girl, Chloe, here! As a ballerina and gymnast with a serious obsession for all things leotard-related, I’ve spent a lifetime on the hunt for the perfect dance wear. And let me tell you, Ilford, dear Ilford, has quickly become my secret weapon when it comes to leotard fashion. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if the town itself had been named after the leotard, it's THAT good! Today, I’m taking you on a whirlwind tour of some of Ilford's hidden gems that are absolutely KILLING IT in the leotard department. Trust me, these shops are worth the trip (and they're *super* easy to get to with the central line and all). Get ready to #leotardfashion.

• Dancewear Delights: First up, we've got Dancewear Delights, located on the main high street. It’s a little haven for dancers of all ages, with an AMAZING selection of leotards from brands like Bloch, Capezio, and Wear Moi. I absolutely adore their selection of convertible leotards - you know, the ones that you can wear with or without straps, just how you feel on the day? SO chic! And let's not forget about the colour options! You name it, they have it - from the classics like black and pink, to trendy blues and greens. It's the kind of shop that could seriously tempt you into buying every single leotard in sight, and trust me, I'm definitely not the only one who's ever walked out of there with an armful of leotard goodies! #leotardfashion
• Studio Movement: Okay, guys, hold onto your tutus because this shop is going to rock your world! Studio Movement is the kind of shop that takes 'studio' fashion to another level. Their leotard collection is EVERYTHING, featuring some of the most unique and cutting-edge designs. Their selection is diverse, from sleek, sporty styles for the modern gymnast, to the classically elegant leotards that ballerinas absolutely adore. They even have amazing leotards made with recycled materials – eco-fashion at its best! #leotardfashion
• Ballet & Beyond: Looking for a leotard that turns heads? Ballet & Beyond is the place to be! It’s a hidden gem tucked away in a quieter side street, but believe me, it’s worth the hunt. I mean, they have EVERYTHING - think tutus that will literally make you feel like a princess, leotards in bold colours and funky prints, and a huge selection of tights in every shade under the sun. Seriously, this shop is a dancer's dream, with a staff that is just as knowledgeable as they are helpful. They even give styling advice on what to wear for auditions and competitions! #leotardfashion

I can't talk about leotards without giving you some *inspo* on how to rock them outside the studio. We’re not talking a full-on, ballerina-in-the-streets kinda look here (although… why not? Just sayin'!) - but trust me, a simple leotard can be dressed up in so many creative ways! A black leotard looks super chic with a flowing midi skirt and ankle boots. Think of it as the perfect daytime outfit to rock that dance aesthetic but keep it effortlessly stylish. For an evening look, add some glitter, throw a blazer over a bright-coloured leotard and some statement jewellery and BAM – you’ve just created a show-stopping outfit for drinks with friends or a date night.

And what would a leotard-lover's fashion guide be without a nod to those magnificent frocks, those fabulous fabric frills, the one-and-only tutu?! Let’s be honest, we all have a secret desire to dance around in a tulle tutu at least once in our lives, right? But I'm not just talking about those standard, basic, one-layer tutus you see in every shop. I'm talking tutus that are a fashion statement in themselves, a dance-inspired design piece that will be the talk of the town!

I mean, picture this: A black velvet leotard from Ballet & Beyond with a glittery, multi-layered tulle tutu, and you've just taken 'leotard fashion' to the next level! Add a pair of high heels or a sleek pair of boots, and let’s not forget those gorgeous hairpieces, maybe even a headband with crystals – *heaven*. Honestly, there’s something magical about the combination of a sleek leotard and a flowing, whimsical tutu. It's both elegant and powerful, making you feel like you're a real-life fairy tale character.

But if tutus aren’t your vibe (and you’re a hardcore leotard kind of girl, no judgment!), just a sleek leotard paired with a fabulous pair of shoes or a stylish jacket can do the trick, right? The secret to mastering leotard fashion is all about finding the right leotard to suit your personality and personal style, and thankfully, Ilford’s got all bases covered! And if you’re ever feeling adventurous (and in need of a shopping spree) , make a day of it in Ilford! I guarantee, you’ll leave with a brand new leotard and the inspiration to unleash your inner leotard goddess. So go on, guys, get out there, shop, style and rock those leotard looks with total confidence, and remember, #leotardfashion is here to stay!