Tutu Tuesday in Blackburn: A Fashionable Whirlwind
Well, darlings, it's Tutu Tuesday, and as usual, I'm feeling like a whirling dervish of fashion! But today's twirl is a bit different, because I'm venturing out of the studio and into the heart of Blackburn, Lancashire. Yes, you heard me right. Blackburn! A place that doesn't immediately scream "tutu," but I'm here to prove you wrong! This week's #tututuesday is going to be an ode to finding fashion inspiration in the most unexpected places.
Now, let's be honest, tutus, those billowing, airy symbols of elegance, have been synonymous with ballet for centuries. But I say, why restrict their beauty to the stage? Tutues deserve to strut their stuff on the streets, to grace everyday life with a touch of ethereal glamour!
So, today, I'm taking a bold, flamboyant fashion walkabout through the bustling market square in Blackburn. My trusty camera is at the ready, because you never know what sartorial treasures you'll uncover on a Tuesday! My trusty Tutu, by the way, is a custom creation from the atelier in Covent Garden: a soft, wispy confection in a shade I call "dusky lavender", with just the right amount of flounce to create an irresistible silhouette. It's a classic romantic tutu - the kind that would make any ballerina swoon.
And what's a tutu adventure without a good pair of ballet shoes? My "Black Swan" pointe shoes are the perfect blend of chic and edgy. The soft leather and the deep burgundy satin of the ribbons perfectly complements the subtle, lavender shimmer of the tutu. I know some might scoff, but who's going to judge my footwear choice when my outfit screams ballerina elegance? Besides, Blackburn is a place where you can be yourself, right? I know some of my fellow fashionistas might question this, but it's exactly the kind of street style vibe I love to explore!
My first stop is at the Blackburn Market. A kaleidoscope of sights, smells, and sounds that makes the senses reel. I’m starting my day with a hearty cuppa from the Tea Bar - there's no way I can conquer the fashion whirlwind of Blackburn on an empty stomach. The tea shop owner, Mrs. Johnson, she's a sweetheart! We were chatting about the merits of tea over coffee. Mrs Johnson said " I was born with my tea cup in my hand," which is exactly my sentiment. We’re kindred spirits. She then gifted me an extra strong Earl Grey that I know will be a fashion muse for me throughout the day.
Then I’m ready to tackle the fashion labyrinth. Every stall a little vignette of colour, textures, and textures. And while I admit it takes a practiced eye, a bold spirit like myself always manages to discover hidden fashion gems amongst the ordinary! I'm on the hunt for statement jewellery, vintage finds, and of course, the perfect little trinket that captures the spirit of Blackburn. You never know what you might unearth amongst these vintage treasures and hand-made wares.
After scouring the market for some time I stop to catch my breath at a bustling coffee shop on the corner of Church Street and Penny Street. This area is a bustling haven for art, fashion, and music with a truly unique independent spirit! It has this magical eclectic air that's oh so refreshing, as a girl that grew up in a very stylish corner of London, this unique Blackburn charm is quite unexpected!
I spot an unusual pair of boots - almost tribal in their pattern with a hint of Edwardian flair. They are hand-painted in intricate patterns and finished with an ornate, silver buckle, They're like a vintage postcard from a world that never was! And to my delight, a gorgeous floral head-piece - it has to be vintage because you simply don't find floral craftsmanship like that in these modern times. The store owner is telling me that it’s made from silk salvaged from a historic fashion exhibition at The Gallery in the Town Hall - I have to see this exhibit now - she also said that he found the entire piece hidden away in the basement - I'm a girl who loves a good mystery. I decide to snap these little treasures up as part of my ongoing street style series.
Next on the agenda is the grand old Blackburn Cathedral, a historic beauty of stained-glass windows and towering spires, It's the epitome of Victorian grandeur. I have to admit this juxtaposition of fashion and the historical grandeur of the cathedral does make you feel rather special - it was a pretty dramatic photo shoot for my Instagram account and for the upcoming tutu blog post.
My Tutu dance adventure continues. There's a touch of gothic elegance that Blackburn holds. And my tutu, now with an ethereal, vintage crown atop it, adds to the mystique, The cathedral really does bring out the theatrical spirit in the area - and let’s face it in a tutu - my confidence and inner theatrical queen come alive.
As the afternoon melts into the evening, and the shadows begin to dance on the cobbles of the old town square, it's time to reflect on my Blackburn experience. I’ve discovered an area with an almost ethereal feel. It’s where the historic and modern dance gracefully side-by-side with the beauty of a classic ballet dancer with a modern, fashion edge. Blackburn's history comes alive, from the ancient Roman ruins that are just below the surface of the town to the grand historical architecture.
Now, back to the main event: the tutu, this piece of elegance. It's not just about the billowing layers, but the feeling, the confidence it evokes. Tutu Tuesday has gone beyond its usual limits and shown me what fashion inspiration is really about.
As I make my way out of town I think, "Tutu Tuesday in Blackburn? This is what we need - a celebration of every kind of style. After all, the streets are our stage, and fashion is our expression. And when we break down the boundaries and allow our inner selves to shine, that’s when fashion truly becomes art." #Tututuesday
Here’s a roundup of fashion tips gleaned from my time in Blackburn.
- Embrace the unexpected! Just because a location is considered traditional doesn’t mean that you cannot rock a contemporary outfit. I encourage you to embrace that edgy combination and watch your personal style thrive!
- Be true to your style! Let's be real - confidence radiates when you truly own your aesthetic.
- Find hidden gems! Vintage stores can be a veritable treasure trove of beautiful accessories. A bold scarf or vintage broach are instant fashion power moves - perfect for every fashion enthusiast who dares to stand out!
- Take your camera! The streets are filled with stories. Keep a record of those unique touches to style - a reminder that fashion is truly everywhere.
Don't be afraid to break the norm, be bold and daring in your sartorial choices! Until next time, stay stylish darlings!