Hey everyone, Emma here! If youâre reading this, you probably already know that Iâm a little bit obsessed with ballet, and maybe just a touch obsessed with tutus. They're like fashionâs answer to a perfectly spun dream. But whatâs even dreamier? Hand-knitted tutus, thatâs what! And Highbury is becoming a haven for these amazing creations. Letâs dive into the wonderful world of #tutuknitted and #tutuwool right here in the heart of north London.
Knitting your own tutu: Where to start?
Letâs get this straight, we're talking about handmade tutus, not those shop-bought plastic numbers. And don't even get me started on the "fluffy tutu" phase of the late 2000s. Weâre here for something elevated, ethereal and utterly unique. Knitting a tutu is like a delicate dance. It's all about the materials, the techniques and, of course, the flair.
First things first: finding the perfect wool. Yarn stores in Highbury are buzzing with amazing options. Itâs a complete rabbit hole of textures, colors and fibres, just waiting to be explored! Think about it:
- Merino wool: A timeless favourite, itâs soft, luxurious and drapes beautifully.
- Alpaca wool: If youâre looking for a unique and fuzzy feel, alpaca wool is a fantastic option. It comes in a rainbow of shades, from dreamy pastels to rich jewel tones.
Silk blends: These elevate the whole thing with an added touch of elegance and sparkle. Imagine that soft, gentle shimmer on stage!
And for those of you who'd rather admire the work of othersâŠ
Fear not! Weâre spoilt for choice with fantastic shops in Highbury showcasing the talents of local knitters:
1. The Knitting Needle [Website/Instagram link]
Tucked away in a quaint side street, this place feels like stepping into a fairyland of knitwear. Youâll find handmade tutus in vibrant colors, with playful details that remind me of childhood dreams and ballet scenes. I can practically smell the freshly spun yarn as I enter this haven of creativity.
2. The Woolen Weavers [Website/Instagram link]
This one has a very distinct âHighbury vibeâ: classy and contemporary. Their designs are minimalist and chic, with an emphasis on timeless silhouettes. Here youâll find delicate knitted tutus in muted shades, perfect for the sophisticated dancer.
3. Threads & Dreams [Website/Instagram link]
This is your one-stop shop for tutu experimentation! They have workshops where you can learn to knit your own tutu from scratch. The instructor, a wonderfully kind lady named Sarah, will patiently guide you through each stitch, and by the end youâll have a piece to be truly proud of. Think of the satisfaction!
Letâs talk colours... because there are no rules, darling!
The summer is practically begging for bright, playful colours. Imagine a blush pink tutu with hints of shimmering gold or a deep sapphire blue that echoes the midnight sky. The choice is yours, and it's all about reflecting your own unique style.
And when it comes to design⊠well, the possibilities are endless!
- Layer it up: Why settle for a simple single layer? A delicate layer of netting over a knitted tutu adds a whimsical touch.
- Go for an ombré effect: Imagine that gradual change from a light pastel at the top to a vibrant hue at the bottom - so graceful and eye-catching!
- Add embellishments: Beads, sequins, lace trim â let your creative spirit run wild! These little details really elevate a knitted tutu to the next level.
Don't be afraid to get experimental. Try pairing a knitted tutu with a leotard in a contrasting color, adding some interesting textures to your outfit. I love the idea of mixing knitted and sheer fabrics, adding that magical layer of drama and delicacy.
The future of tutus: Highbury as a centre of tutu fashion
Something really special is happening in Highbury, folks. This neighbourhood has become a hub for a whole new generation of designers, knitters, and even DIY tutu enthusiasts â just like you and me. And weâre not just talking about pretty designs; weâre talking about creating pieces that feel empowered, sustainable, and totally in tune with this exciting new era of ballet fashion.
So, how are you embracing #tutuwool?
Show me your latest creations! Snap those photos and share them online using the hashtags #tutuknitted and #tutuwool. We'd love to see your creativity and maybe even feature your design in our next blog post. Let's make Highbury the go-to place for the worldâs most exquisite, most uniquely designed, handmade tutus. Weâre just getting started. đ
