Hey dance lovers! Emma here, your resident tutu enthusiast and ballet blogger, and spring has sprung! It's that magical time of year when the air is filled with the scent of blossom and the sun shines long enough to give us a little Vitamin D, even in England! But let's be honest, there's one thing that gets me really excited this time of year - tutu shopping!
And there's no better place to go than good old Stourbridge, my favourite spot for finding the perfect tutu and ballet gear. Let's be honest, Stourbridge really is the grande dame of balletwear. Donāt think for a second you can just rock up and pick the first tutu you see. There are just too many options!
Trust me, this isnāt just another ballet clothing guide, this is a deep dive into the sartorial soul of Stourbridge and it's hidden gems. So, grab a cuppa, slip into something comfy (a cute, pink leotard, perhaps?), and letās take a peek at my must-visit shops for a fab spring tutu shopping experience.
1. "A Bit Of Sass"
Ok, letās start with one of the best-kept secrets in Stourbridge: "A Bit Of Sass." Tucked away down a cobbled side street, this little gem is like stepping into a magical world of sparkles and feathers. Think vintage vibes, a sprinkle of disco ball, and walls overflowing with every colour of tulle imaginable. "A Bit Of Sass" doesn't just sell tutus, itās where dreams are made! They have pre-loved treasures - a perfect budget-friendly choice - and new creations bursting with intricate detailing, hand-stitched rosettes, and all those sparkly embellishments we dance girls just love. I'm talking custom-designed tutus, leotards with hand-painted embellishments - you'll never find another one like it! And the friendly staff, oh, they're a delight! Always happy to share their dance knowledge and help you find the perfect piece for your next performance. Plus, they're constantly updating their stock so thereās something fresh to discover each time.
Pro Tip: They stock these amazing sequined tights, and I'm obsessed with the āSilver Starburstā pair. I'll be sporting those in my next pointe shoe photo shoot, trust me.
2. "Twinkletoes & Beyond"
Okay, brace yourselves. "Twinkletoes & Beyond" is a haven for the ultimate tutu experience. Think elegant French craftsmanship, dreamy floral details, and those impossibly perfect flowing fabrics. Iām talking classic tutu perfection here. This shop screams high-end style and impeccable craftsmanship. Think layers of hand-crafted tulle, the softest mesh, and luxurious fabrics ā every piece is made with a love for dance and an understanding of the dedication of dancers. Theyāve even got a dedicated āBespokeā section for you high-flying ballerina beauties out there who need something utterly unique!
Pro Tip: "Twinkletoes & Beyond" has the best selection of pointe shoes in the region, and the staff are brilliant when it comes to helping you find the right fit. Theyāll be your new best friends! And those dainty ballet flats, those are a must-have for running around the studio (or to the local cafe after class!)
3. "Dance Zone"
Now, "Dance Zone" is your go-to for everything else your dancer needs! From sleek warm-up wear and stylish leotards to practical dance bags and everything else in between, theyāve got you covered from head-to-toe. If itās a reliable dance shop you need, look no further! Think modern designs with a splash of colour, a fantastic range of brands, and of course, super-affordable prices. They even have a fab line of childrenās dance wear, with whimsical prints and colours - ideal for tiny dancers who want to twirl their way through their early dance years.
Pro Tip: They're constantly running great promotions, especially for their larger brands. Sign up to their newsletter, and watch your inbox for the best deals. Iām a bit of a dancewear shopaholic, so you can thank me later.
Beyond the Boutique:
Ok, let's step out of the shops and take a moment to appreciate Stourbridge itself. I always treat myself to a nice hot chocolate in the cute little cafĆ© next to "Twinkletoes & Beyond." Thereās also the fab vintage market that pops up every Saturday in the town square, where you can hunt for vintage tutus and ballet clothing. It's always worth the wander. And, if you fancy getting lost in some real Stourbridge history, take a stroll through the town and visit the magnificent Glass Museum. Stourbridge has always had a long, rich history of glassmaking, so a peek into the town's fascinating past will surely inspire some serious tutu creativity.
*Ready to twirl? *
Ok, so now that you're equipped with the ultimate Stourbridge guide, get ready to experience the thrill of tutu shopping. From high-end elegance to vintage chic, the shops here truly have something for everyone. It's not just shopping, it's an experience! You can truly feel the magic of dance radiating through the cobbled streets of Stourbridge, It's a unique and beautiful dance haven that truly celebrates all things ballet. I know I'll definitely be heading back for some tutu-themed shopping sprees in the near future. And who knows, you might just catch me doing a celebratory twirl (or two!) as I exit āA Bit Of Sassā with a brand new sparkly masterpiece.
Letās Stay Connected:
Want to see more of my ballet adventures and tutu obsessions?
- Follow me on Instagram: @EmmaTheBalletBlogger
- Check out my website: www.balletbloggeremma.com
- Tag me in your Stourbridge shopping pics! #TutuShop
And of course, keep your eyes peeled for my Spring 2023 Collection of hand-painted leotards, launching very soon!
Happy dancing,
Emma xx
