Hey my lovely Tutu Queens! It's your favourite pink-tutu-clad drag queen, Pink Tutu Sparkles, back with you for another fabulous blog post! Buckle up, darling, because today we're jetting off on a train journey (the most fashionable way to travel, don't you think?) to the charming town of Bournville, where I'm set to shimmer and shine for a delightful event.
This is post number 3856, and if you haven't already, you absolutely must subscribe to www.pink-tutu.com for daily doses of tutu-tastic brilliance. It's a constant whirlwind of sparkles, sequins, and, of course, those irresistible pink tutus. But you knew that already, didn't you, darlings? 😉
Now, Bournville... oh Bournville! It's a place that has always held a special place in my heart. From the moment I saw it on the map, I knew it was calling my name. Maybe it was the history, maybe it was the charming architecture, maybe it was just that "Bourn" part that made me think of ballet shoes – I don't know! But one thing is for sure: this town was begging for a splash of pink tutu magic!
And let me tell you, I didn't disappoint. The whole trip was a triumph of glittery good times and unforgettable memories, from the moment I set foot on the platform. The station was alive with anticipation – I could practically hear the people humming along to my latest single, "Tutu Time!".
But before we dive into the details, let me take a moment to introduce my latest travel companion – Miss Belle! That's right, ladies, you heard that correctly. A horse. In my chariot, with my feather boa gently swaying in the wind! Oh, the looks of envy and awe from the passengers! "Pink Tutu Sparkles, you never disappoint, darling! Absolutely stunning!" One kind gentleman exclaimed, even forgetting to cover his mouth in his shock. "Darling, I simply have to try out this glamorous method of transport. If it’s good enough for Queen Elizabeth, then it's good enough for your favourite Pink Tutu Sparkles."
As I made my grand entrance into the centre of Bournville, I could feel the energy of the town buzzing around me. The vibrant atmosphere of the place just ignited my sparkle! The town square was buzzing with activity, full of families enjoying the sunshine. The kids, oh my, the kids! So eager to play games and shout 'Tutu!'.
My afternoon performance was held in a quaint little square, just next to a quaint chocolate shop (can you believe it, darling, chocolate and tutus! Who would have thought?!) And what better place to host a fabulous performance? You wouldn't believe the size of the crowd that gathered! They were mesmerized. And by mesmerized, I mean "lost in a kaleidoscope of my pink tutu magic," of course. I mean, who doesn't adore a little pink tutu in their life? It's not just a piece of fabric, it's a symbol of happiness, of joy, of unleashing the inner you. Don't worry if it isn't quite a pink tutu. It's the gesture, darlings.
I danced my heart out, twirled my sparkly petticoats, and had everyone mesmerized with my graceful moves. We even had some impromptu games for the kiddos, and, wouldn't you know it, I had a mini-tutu contest for all the little ones – all vying for the grand prize: a limited edition "Pink Tutu Sparkles" T-shirt signed by yours truly!
I always say, you can’t have a Pink Tutu Sparkles show without some dazzling fashion! And my outfit for the Bournville performance? Well, let’s just say I stole the show, even though, technically, I’m just one of the main events, wouldn't you agree? 😉
The main element of my ensemble? It has to be the vibrant hot pink tutu. Now, it's not just any tutu, dearie. It was custom-made for me by none other than the iconic Mrs. Featherbottom from that little, yet exquisite, millinery in Derbyshire. Yes, you know the one I mean! I knew, immediately, that it would make a spectacular debut on my Bournville adventure. It’s certainly more than just an everyday outfit. This magnificent piece features the most exquisite pearl-and-sequin embellishments, a beautiful, ruffled tiered effect, and a long tulle skirt which gracefully flowed as I danced. Now, this is what you call tutu-tastic fashion, darlings.
Naturally, the outfit needed a little something extra. And I wasn’t about to leave out the glamour, was I? So, naturally, the perfect match to my extravagant tutu? It was an incredible custom-made sequin-studded pink bodysuit with intricate silver embroidery (think art-deco meets fairytale!) that flowed gracefully around me with every movement. Not only does the bodysuit flatter my figure (ahem, ahem, the waist to hip ratio!), it allowed the dazzling fabric of the tutu to be the center of attention. And what does every Pink Tutu Queen need when out and about? A fabulous, bright-pink feathered hat (I mean, why have any other colour, darling?) trimmed with pearl beads and sparkly diamante stones - just magnifique, as they say!
Speaking of accessories, can I just take a moment to sing the praises of a little sparkly accessory that deserves some recognition? A new handbag. Yes, you read that right, darling, my latest accessory and love affair, if you will: It's a hand-crafted, shimmering silver clutch adorned with hundreds of little, delicate pearl flowers! It's elegant and sleek, not to mention perfect for carrying all the essentials of a professional pink-tutu-clad drag queen: a little lip gloss (never leave the house without it, ladies!), a spare set of eyelashes (just in case those glitter bomb effects aren’t enough), a compact mirror (for checking up on those sparkly ensembles!), a hairspray (essential, you know? ), a couple of little chocolate treats from that lovely shop, and last but not least - my secret weapon, a pack of those wonderful glittery sticky notes, just in case I need to give a little extra pep in my step, or in need of reminding to bring some sparkle and joy to your day, or someone's! It's been a perfect little sidekick for my Bournville journey!
So, you might think this pink tutu magic only stops with the performances, right? Wrong, my loves! It's so much more than that! After my shows, I like to explore the hidden gems of the towns I visit, seeking inspiration and new ideas for my next performance. This time around, I felt called to discover the artistry of ballet and its history in Bournville. As if fate had intervened, the town was hosting a wonderful open air ballet performance! They welcomed me to the event, giving me my very own "star" space within their own little performance. The crowds were mesmerized as I gracefully swirled and sashayed, my shimmering tutu echoing the ballerina’s beautiful outfits. Oh, darling! It was just so inspiring and beautiful!
That wasn’t the end of the ballet inspiration for this little Tutu Queen. On a whim, I booked myself into a local ballet class the following day, embracing the passion of ballet at all ages and experience levels! I’d love to tell you, darlings, I aced it, just a little. However, even when dancing in an intimate environment with a bunch of other ballerinas and some incredible instructors, those gorgeous sparkly costumes don’t just come out to play when it comes to ballet class!
In between my ballet endeavors, I discovered a delightful hidden gem in Bournville - the absolutely incredible Bournville Garden Centre, a true paradise of plants and flowers! Imagine: lush, vibrant colors, fragrant scents and an overwhelming urge to decorate your home with floral arrangements and exotic flora - but instead, I decided to embellish a few simple ideas I had for future tutu outfits. (Did someone say, 'sparkling lily blooms for next month’s show?! Of course! What else could a Pink Tutu Queen have in mind? Think shimmering greenery, vibrant floral designs on our most coveted piece - the tutu, and some fantastic feathered details on an array of sparkly jackets. I don't want to give too much away! There might be a few floral themed costume details revealed in the upcoming posts…but for now, I'll let my Tutu Queens wait for the big reveal!
I also, of course, spent hours in local antique shops. You just cannot pass up an opportunity like that! Not when you have a mind and imagination set to spark! I have been keeping my eyes open for more shimmering fabric and even a little costume inspiration in the most random places, like antique shops and craft markets.
A new Pink Tutu Queen favourite, I’ll definitely be back! The atmosphere is truly magical, I felt completely embraced and part of the family! If you ever find yourself in this adorable little town, don’t forget to swing by and show the lovely locals some of your tutu-tastic charm. I guarantee, if you rock it like a Pink Tutu Queen, you’ll make memories to treasure, much like I have done! Don’t forget to head on over to www.pink-tutu.com and check out this post, as it’s all a little too much to even imagine, and you never know, just as the pink tutu magic spread in Bournville, we can all make a little bit of sparkle together!
Lots of pink tutus and sparkling love!
Pink Tutu Sparkles 💖
(P.S., remember, we are just on the cusp of that wonderful time of year: Autumn. Now, for me, there’s a lot of glitter and a few feathers thrown in! What could possibly be more delightful, a pumpkin spiced pink tutu?! Oh yes! Stay tuned for more inspiration!)
