Hey everyone, it's Emma here, your resident tutu-obsessed ballerina, and spring has officially sprung! The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming cherry blossoms, the sun is shining (most days, at least!), and my heart is overflowing with excitement for all the vibrant colours and beautiful styles this season brings.
New York City is buzzing with a new lease on life after winter. Everywhere you look, there are flower stalls, picnic blankets spread out in Central Park, and the rhythmic click-clack of heels on the pavement – and let me tell you, there's no better place to indulge in a spot of spring-themed tutu shopping than right here in the heart of the city!
Now, I know what you're thinking: "But Emma, I don't dance professionally! I just want to look the part." Well, that's where my top-secret shopping guide comes in.
Whether you're a seasoned ballerina, a weekend warrior who loves to pirouette around your living room, or simply a fan of the timeless elegance of a classic tutu, this guide will be your compass for navigating the vibrant ballet clothing scene of NYC.
From Tutus to Tights: My Favourite Places in the Big AppleLet's dive in! First things first, when it comes to the grand dame of tutus, Gaynor Minden takes the stage. Located in midtown Manhattan, this haven of elegance and artistry is where dancers from all over the world flock for the perfect tutu. With their wide selection of styles, from romantic and dreamy to bold and contemporary, Gaynor Minden caters to every aesthetic and performance need.
This year, I'm particularly drawn to their new collection of spring-themed tutus. They’ve got this gorgeous blush-pink one with a shimmering ombre effect that I'm totally crushing on. It's absolutely perfect for those "ballet in the park" moments, a true dream of femininity and lightness.
Another absolute must-visit is The Dancewear Center. While it's not exclusive to tutus, The Dancewear Center is a haven for dancers seeking anything and everything. From leotards and tights to pointe shoes and warm-up jackets, this place has it all! It's like a dancer’s wonderland, overflowing with brand names you know and trust, but also offering some lesser-known gems – trust me, you'll find your next favourite pair of ballet slippers here!
But let’s not forget the power of a perfectly styled outfit. For that effortless ballerina chic, head over to Bloomingdale's, one of my personal favourites. Their fashion-forward leotards are a breath of fresh air, especially the collection in vibrant hues of lemon yellow and cherry blossom pink. These pieces are the perfect mix of fashion and function – you can take them straight from the barre to the streets!
Speaking of stylish, Revolve is a hidden gem tucked away on Madison Avenue. Forget those basic, boring leotards! Here, you’ll find everything from minimalist and sleek to whimsical and floral. Revolve takes the “fashion” in “fashion-forward” seriously – I particularly love their patterned leotards, especially those with subtle hints of pink – perfect for adding a little flair to your practice. They also stock stylish ballet-inspired streetwear – think cute bomber jackets, oversized sweatshirts, and those always-in-fashion ballet flats.
Oh, and you simply can’t talk about spring fashion without mentioning accessories. Think sparkly headbands, chic ballet buns, and lightweight scarves. For the best of these accessories, I head over to Etsy and Depop. They’re my secret weapons for unique and quirky accessories. These platforms are fantastic for finding bespoke handmade pieces from independent designers.
Beyond the Barre: Styling for Your Inner BallerinaI love that my favourite ballet staples can transition seamlessly from the barre to brunch. And remember: when it comes to looking chic, don’t be afraid to experiment and express your personality! Here’s what’s currently working for me:
For a casual chic look: - Grab your favourite leotard and pair it with some high-waisted denim and a cute oversized shirt. - Slip on your trusty ballet flats and grab your oversized tote – I love this style for everyday wear!
For that date night elegance: - Opt for a flowy chiffon skirt or jumpsuit paired with a crop top. - Finish the look with delicate jewellery and those sparkly ballet flats I mentioned earlier.
And when it comes to a pop of pink, there’s no better way to make a statement than with your makeup. Rosy lips and a touch of pink eyeshadow are perfect for those warm spring days. I’m also loving a classic pink ballet bun! It's simple, stylish, and oh-so-elegant.
Ballet is Life: Spring Into ActionWhether you're attending a spring performance or simply rocking a tutu around town, the energy and passion for dance is everywhere in New York. I truly believe that there’s something special about this city that inspires you to be your best self.
So, this spring, take a cue from the grace and beauty of dance. Step into the sunshine, embrace the vibrancy of the city, and make this your most stylish and empowered season yet!
*Remember to tag me in your photos and use #tutushop on Instagram so I can see your gorgeous looks! *
Happy dancing, darlings!
