Tutu Tuesday in Wigston Magna: A Ballet Blogger's Diary
Okay, so I’m not going to lie. It was a long shot thinking I’d find anything remotely tutu-tastic in Wigston Magna, especially on a Tuesday. My inner ballerina, however, always dreams big, especially when it comes to tutus. This is what I'm talking about, guys. I mean, a #tututuesday trip involves embracing your inner ballerina, no matter the setting. Who needs a ballet studio or theatre when you can bring the magic to the everyday, right? And believe it or not, sometimes those everyday places hide some real tutu treasures!
So, the journey began. After a quick, *not* overly glamorous train ride (we're talking peak time, people!), I found myself in the heart of Wigston Magna, a small town in Leicestershire, England. Not exactly known as a hotbed of ballet culture (sorry Wigston Magna, it's the truth).
Now, for my #tututuesday hunt, I had my eye on three targets. A vintage shop, a craft store, and the local charity shop – because honestly, you never know what treasures can be found lurking on the charity shop racks. So, tucked under my arm, I carried a classic 'professional' ballet bag, my trusty weapon of choice. The first stop, Vintage Emporium – and what an adventure!
Right as I stepped inside, I knew this place had potential. A swirling array of colourful fabrics and vintage lace caught my eye. This is what I call a tull-tastic haven, I mean, imagine the possibilities! With a sparkle in my eye and a glee in my step, I got down to business.
And oh boy, the vintage shop did not disappoint! My first find – a pristine white cotton tutu from the 1950s, with a layer of delicate netting, all for £15! And not only that, it was just my size.
Imagine a sweet, innocent little ballerina in this one! Now, this is where my mind started working. Would it be more chic and modern if we added a pop of colour to it? Maybe a burst of red with some velvet ribbons, and some statement earrings? And perhaps a vintage inspired black top? This, ladies and gentlemen, is why I love fashion – so many options, and possibilities to turn an everyday piece into something truly spectacular!
Speaking of possibilities, it’s about that time of the day when every #tututuesday aficionado’s stomach starts rumbling for something a bit more satisfying than the freshly picked tea bags. And so a delicious (and incredibly filling) bacon sandwich with the trimmings (don't judge me! It’s Tuesday in Wigston Magna) later, I headed for the next treasure hunt.
Next stop – the local craft store, a beacon of DIY creativity for anyone and everyone, whether you are a tutu connoisseur or just someone looking for some crafty inspiration! Now, this place was an explosion of fabric, ribbons, beads, and everything you can imagine – I loved the vibes instantly! It was a serious, albeit temporary, setback when I had to resist buying a full stock of colorful buttons for my tutu-ing activities – but I made it! And why not? #tututuesday can also be about the creative journey of making your own tutu magic!.
My final target – a little bit of a last minute decision inspired by the optimism and good vibes I found at the craft shop – a visit to the charity shop, an unexpected source of tutu magic!
But I am not here to write just another typical story about finding a designer piece hidden amongst the charity shop donations ( although who knows, that could have happened!) It was the human element, and how my #tututuesday journey crossed paths with a little girl who gave my journey another layer of magic and warmth that is the true heart of this tale!
So, after I found another little white tutu in good shape and in great condition for less than £5, and a very nice little hand knitted red tulle cape that seemed made for an extraordinary tutu ensemble ( yes! it was meant to be!), my journey brought me in contact with an amazing woman, a true ‘heart of gold' volunteer. She shared some heartwarming stories and stories of a kind gesture about a little girl who often visited the shop. The girl would come with her mom looking for toys and clothes. Then, she would look through the boxes of “bits and pieces” and often found hidden treasures! But, most importantly, her kindness and determination were something that warmed my heart. This woman reminded me how much simple acts of kindness can truly touch people!.
On this note, I know that in our daily rush, we can easily forget the little things – a simple kind word, a friendly smile or just an opportunity to spread some magic – even through a #tututuesday. But it's moments like these that make us realize how much love and connection can change people's lives – big or small. These are the stories that bring me back to my love of ballet because they are truly heartfelt!
This #tututuesday journey in Wigston Magna turned out to be a reminder: it’s not just about the tutu itself – it’s about the stories it carries, the joy it brings, and the magic we discover when we explore the unexpected places where we least expect it. It reminds us to cherish these unexpected connections and the sparkle of human kindness that can transform the most ordinary day into a magical one, and that sometimes, it’s the most unexpected journey that takes us to the most heartwarming and life-affirming destination.
So there you have it, guys! The magic of #tututuesday in Wigston Magna. Who knows? The next treasure hunt awaits, waiting to be uncovered in a place that could be your own. Just go out there, open your mind and heart to the magic, and let your #tututuesday sparkle!
Tutu Tip: For the vintage lover, you can't go wrong with the classic pale pink, or baby pink, ballerina tutu – these are always so feminine and versatile. If you’re looking for a little bit of a twist, consider a white tutu, or try pairing your tutu with a colorful sweater or vintage shirt – for a more modern take.
For the DIY lovers, here are a few things to consider: - You can create a tutu out of almost anything, from ribbons, scarves, strips of fabric, and even some lovely lace! And you know what's best? It gives you complete control to choose colors and materials. - Make your tutu even more unique by adding extra flair – you can tie ribbons around it or stitch beautiful vintage lace or flowers.
Don’t forget to use #tututuesday on Instagram to show your creativity! Maybe you can be the next one who sparks a whole town’s #tututuesday!
Happy #tututuesday to all the tutu lovers, wherever you may be!