Braintree's Tutu Tuesday: A Whirlwind of Fashion and Fun
Tutu Tuesday in Braintree. Who knew this sleepy Essex town would become a hub for all things frilly and fabulous? I mean, honestly, who wouldn't be excited about a whole day dedicated to tulle, sequins, and all the fun of a ballerina's life, even if your only pirouette experience comes from trying to avoid spills at your local coffee shop (guilty as charged)?
So, there I was, strolling down Braintree High Street in my brand-new, vintage-inspired pink tutu (a true vintage gem with that beautiful faded blush colour - I found it at the back of a local charity shop - treasure trove!) The day was a visual feast for the eyes, with an eclectic mix of fellow tutu enthusiasts sporting their interpretations of ballet-inspired fashion.
We were all here for one purpose: to celebrate the iconic garment, the tutu, the garment that makes every woman feel like a ballerina, albeit temporarily. And celebrate we did!
Braintree had truly gone all out for the occasion, embracing the tutu theme with gusto. From shop window displays featuring ballerinas in tutus, to restaurants serving 'Tutu Tuesdays' special menus (I opted for the 'Pas de Deux' - delicious!) even the bus stop had a sign promoting Tutu Tuesday. It felt like a big warm hug for all things dance-related.
The day was a kaleidoscope of tulle textures and colours. There were romantic, soft tulle tutus that swished gently with each step (I’m picturing something romantic and classic, like the ethereal tutus in the 'Sleeping Beauty' ballet.)
Others opted for bolder choices, embracing tutus with statement embellishments and pops of vibrant colour - some tutus were even embellished with feathers, sequins, or other bold decorative details. Then, of course, you had the classic, multi-layered tutus reminiscent of the traditional tutus in Swan Lake. We'd had the ballerina inspired tutus in flowing satin, which looked simply exquisite.
It wasn't just the tutus that impressed me, the accessories were truly magnificent. Sparkling tiaras (some had a glamorous pearl-encrusted finish - it truly had me feeling like royalty), feathery boas (so much fun!) and pointy ballet shoes (I mean, I’m sure some of the ladies even wore theirs with true ballerina grace!) It was a glorious celebration of all things dance and all things girly!.
Let's be honest, everyone knows a ballerina at heart, so why not wear that sentiment on your sleeve (or rather, on your tutu?)!
I’d be lying if I didn't say the event reminded me a little of a certain famous (and fictional) high street, made famous by the television show, ‘EastEnders’... but I felt as though Braintree’s event had a unique energy - perhaps the presence of so many smiling and positive faces. The high street was full of camaraderie and there was definitely a sense of “we’re all in this together.”
Whether you're a seasoned ballet dancer, a novice with two left feet, or just a lover of all things pretty, Tutu Tuesday in Braintree proved that the simple pleasure of wearing a tutu has a unique and irresistible magic.
So, how did you celebrate Tutu Tuesday in Braintree?
If you didn't make it to the event, remember you can have your own tutu party any time, anywhere. After all, life's too short to be serious, right? Get yourself a tutu, let loose and channel your inner ballerina!
I must say, this blogger was a big fan of this fabulous Braintree initiative and the spirit of this great British town!
Next Tutu Tuesday! Where and when? Stay tuned, you guys! I'm keeping my eyes open for our next event! Don't forget to follow me on social media for your regular updates, and I would LOVE to hear from you.
And be sure to join the movement on social media - using the hashtag #tututuesday!
Keep dancing, Braintree! #tututuesday