Hey gorgeous dancers! It’s Emma here, and spring is officially in the air! As the flowers bloom and the sun starts shining, I can’t help but feel inspired by the new season - and what better way to celebrate than with some glorious tutu shopping? So pack your dancing shoes and get ready to twirl through the beautiful city of Madrid with me, as I explore the best shops for all your ballet dreams!
*(Spoiler alert: there’s a lot of pink!) *
The Quintessential Classics: A Dance Through Time
First stop on our tutu adventure is the historic Casa Patas. Nestled in the heart of Madrid, this iconic flamenco venue holds a special place in my heart. The atmosphere is electrifying, with live flamenco shows every night that will make your toes tap and your spirit soar. Casa Patas is more than just a performance space though - they also have a fantastic shop brimming with beautiful flamenco and ballet costumes. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a classic, timeless tutu, just like the ones I adore.
Top Tip: Keep an eye out for their exquisite hand-crafted embroidered pieces, absolutely breathtaking.
(And a bonus: it’s an excellent excuse to treat yourself to a post-shopping tapas lunch at the venue. Their traditional cuisine is divine!)
The Modern Muse: Where Fashion Meets Ballet
Now, let's get into some serious tutu shopping, shall we? Head down to Calle Fuencarral - Madrid’s hip and trendy shopping district. This street is a treasure trove for all things fashionable, and it's a must-visit for any dance lover. You’ll find a brilliant mix of dancewear shops and independent boutiques, brimming with vibrant colours and playful styles.
My Must-Have Finds:
- Lorna Jane: For the sporty and chic dancer, this Aussie brand is my go-to for performance-enhancing and fashion-forward gear.
- The Kooples: I love this brand's effortlessly cool Parisian vibe, which always blends fashion and athleticism perfectly. I snag all sorts of stylish, trendy ballet and streetwear finds here!
- Stradivarius: Okay, I may have a thing for all things pink, and this store delivers on my obsession. You can't go wrong with their budget-friendly ballet wear options. Think sparkly tutus, delicate crop tops and sassy dance-ready skirts – they’ve got the ultimate fun, colourful aesthetic!
Shop ‘til You Drop: A Ballerina’s Dream
Time to head to the El Rastro flea market. I always say, this place is a dancer's paradise. Filled with stalls and hidden gems, this open-air market is a treasure hunt just waiting to be discovered. You’ll find everything from vintage tutus and accessories to unique dance shoes.
Top Tip: Be patient, haggle like a pro, and have fun exploring.
Don’t forget to stop by the artisan stalls for bespoke jewellery. My motto? The more sparkly the better!
A Sweet Finale: Indulge in Dessert Delight
After all that shopping, a treat is most definitely in order. Madrid's bakery scene is seriously impressive, and Panadería Mallorca is a real gem! Located in the city’s vibrant Salamanca district, this traditional bakery has a wide selection of heavenly pastries and desserts. Try their melt-in-your-mouth ‘pastelitos’, little mini cakes - a real Spanish delight. They’ll satisfy your sweet tooth and add the perfect touch of sweetness to your day.
(Warning: this bakery’s window display is guaranteed to cause major sweet tooth pangs!)
Final Thoughts
Madrid is an inspiring city bursting with energy, history, and a contagious joie de vivre. And when it comes to dance wear, this city knows how to deliver. So grab your shopping bags, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to twirl through the streets of Madrid with me. It’s the ultimate way to embrace spring and the spirit of dance.
* #Tutushop *
