Darling, gather ’round! I'm simply positively positively gobsmacked, but also quite frankly beside myself with excitement because you're not going to believe the news!
Right, so imagine the scene, it’s 12th September, 2001. It's a beautiful day, you’ve just finished brunch in Soho, bought yourself some new Jimmy Choos, popped a little something in your handbag from the Chanel boutique. All in all a truly fab-tastic day so far. And what’s this? In my favorite fashion mag, I discover a headline that makes me quite simply gag!
The Tutu - is it due a fashion revival?
Absolutely sensational darling! My favourite outfit item of all time is back! And this article explains everything: tutus have apparently always been “hot on the fashion scene.” Oh no they have not, not unless we count, say, 1984, and my darling friend and me. My own magnificent wardrobe full of feather-trimmed, and even tulle-lined dresses proves this!
This trend was just crying out to be reignited. It’s all about the floaty, feminine, ethereal feeling. But there are some big problems with all this – you know – the whole ‘must-be-wearing-a-tutu’ dilemma!
So listen carefully darlings, I’m about to spill some secrets!
You can’t simply pull on a tutu in the morning, have a spot of afternoon tea with the girls, and then dash out to dinner. Oh darling, it doesn’t work that way! Let me tell you why:
* Firstly you have to consider how long it’s been since your last ballet class! The chances of a smooth, seamless look here are minimal darlings! * Secondly, you have to find the right tutu. For those of us who can still manage it, this will probably be in a vintage shop (vintage tutu anyone? So, divine). This will entail digging, sorting, looking in those mysterious back rooms for, heaven forbid, that perfect tutu to pair with those Manolo Blahniks. Then there's the challenge of the right size! You'll either have to take it to the dressmaker and have it adjusted by hand (or heaven forbid find someone on Etsy!) * Finally, you have to accept you’ll likely be the talk of the town – that tutu really will be attracting eyes – lots of eyes!I’m only half joking about that last one. Yes, the tutu will be a huge conversation starter; a serious fashion statement in 2001! Imagine being in a cocktail bar wearing one and talking to a hot doctor - now, who’s going to get a good impression, darling? You, or that dreadful, plain dress the other girls are wearing? You bet your little tulle tail it will be you, girl!
My friend and I are seriously on it: we're about to grab those lovely little twirlers and make sure it all works! But the point is you can look fantastic, chic and elegant, and have fun while doing so – even in this dreadful hot weather.
A few tips? It is actually surprisingly chic. It goes really well with simple lines: sleek tank top, cropped cardigan, even a tailored waistcoat with black trousers – think “dancer going to the ballet.” Then pop on some fabulous shoes: Mary Janes, a sparkly ballerina pump, the aforementioned Jimmy Choos. Darling, if we make sure everyone on the tube’s wearing them it won’t even feel unusual! And think of all the new, bold colours and designs. A real opportunity for an investment of time in the vintage shops (though be prepared for a search). You’ve got to make a splash if you’re going to wear one. So no shying away, ladies!
And lastly, some advice for the fellas - you're gonna have to take your inspiration from our darling Russian ballerinos, wear a sleek suit, but in place of a tie wear the most perfect scarf - with a subtle bow around the neck. And if you want to impress a certain lady then perhaps a very special gift. This is a real chance to bring back an iconic piece, a real statement piece that you will remember in ten, twenty years. We all remember our favourite vintage clothing buys! Let's start this fashion revolution right now, together! I love this kind of challenge, I love making trends, and it feels fantastic to take charge of your style!