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Tutu and Ballet News

Tutues Are The New Black!

Darlings! Can you believe it's July already? Time just flies when you're having fun, or in my case, when you're glued to the telly, catching up on the latest episode of *Strictly*. And let's face it, it's only a matter of time until the sequins and sparkly costumes hit our screens. It's a shame that they're not *all* sparkly though, is it not? Well, darling, that's about to change, because, listen up, the tutu is back! And, I'm not just talking about the dance stage. You heard me right, babes, it's all about the tutu - in every shade of the rainbow, on every street, on every fashion-forward (or shall we say dance-forward?) woman in London, New York and all those places you can afford to shop, right?

The news broke in, yes you guessed it, *Vogue*, naturally, when their newest edition hit newsstands yesterday. The rumour mill has been abuzz all month with talk of a "ballet-inspired" trend, but my love, let's face it - they all know itā€™s about the tutu! (Let's face it, nobody really knows what a ā€œballet-inspiredā€ trend would actually be - apart from me, of course!). Anyway, the cover of Vogue shows their darling model in the most beautiful blush pink tulle you ever did see, and all the designers are going crazy with ruffles, frills and layers - think more Princess Aurora less Mrs Mopp! So get ready for some major tulle time, and letā€™s go all out!

But before you head to the shops - here's the lowdown on how to rock this latest look:

  • **First and foremost, think of a story:** When you put on a tutu, youā€™re putting on a story. Forget the fairy tale you were sold by the fashion houses (oh how weā€™re fooled!), are you the delicate flower, a rebellious princess or a sultry temptress? Think hard before you hit those high street stores!
  • **Do your homework - research:** When we talk about the tutu look we donā€™t just talk about a ballet skirt! Think about all those dancers, darlings: Think *Strictly Come Dancing* (always good for a dance trend); the legendary Swan Lake (more of an emotional story here); or the ever-fashionable Royal Ballet - whatever floats your boat! There's no wrong answer, and itā€™s the research that counts!
  • **Don't just throw on anything!**: Your tutu, like everything else you wear, should accentuate your features - this is important! No-one wants to be caught in a tutu-disaster, darling. If your waist is your best feature, emphasize that with a tutu that nips in and goes out - this is called good dressing - and if your legs are to die for, go for a tutu that shows them off!
  • **Donā€™t go all-out!**: Youā€™ll get so many stares darling! Your tutu should be a statement piece. Pair your choice of tutu with simple things: think tailored jackets and fitted blouses for the day; or silky blouses, and killer heels at night - thereā€™s nothing better, darling. Remember to go for colours that are complementary - like blue and yellow or grey and black.
  • **Embrace the trend, darling!**: Yes, a tutu does scream ā€œIā€™m not afraid to be noticed!ā€, but please, don't get overwhelmed. Tutus are available in loads of different sizes and lengths; and even if they're not your usual style - let it make you feel confident and comfortable! Itā€™s your tutu and your look. Nobody has to do anything.

The most exciting thing about this trend? You'll be surprised by how good you feel - that confident and free spirit in us all just shines through. You will also be the belle of the ball darling (not in a literal way - of course!) And it doesnā€™t matter whether youā€™re an actual ballet dancer, darling - thereā€™s nothing more magical and playful than a girl in a tutu!