Tutu Tuesday in North Shields: A Whirlwind of Sequins and Sass
It's Tuesday, and you know what that means - it's time to unleash the ballerina within! Yes, ladies and gents, it's #tututuesday, and North Shields is about to be graced with a flurry of tulle and sparkle.
Now, before you envision a swarm of seasoned ballerinas pirouetting down the high street (though, I wouldn't say no to that!), let me enlighten you. #Tututuesday, at least in North Shields, is less about perfecting a perfect fouette and more about embracing a spirit of playful, unapologetic fabulousness. It's about expressing yourself, whether through a classic romantic tutu with layers upon layers of ethereal tulle, or a cheeky modern take with asymmetric hems and a touch of neon.
This quirky little tradition, I've learned, is the brainchild of a local dance studio, 'The Twirling Tutu'. Their idea was to bring a bit of fun and flair to the everyday, and honestly, it's a brilliant concept. I mean, who doesn't love a little dose of magic sprinkled into their Tuesday routine?
So, how do you get involved? It's as simple as pulling out your fanciest tulle (and if you're anything like me, you already have a little collection!) or investing in a new one if you fancy a change. Then, step out, shimmy, twirl, and post a picture with the hashtag #tututuesday.
My own #tututuesday journey started with a dusty, hand-me-down tutu that my grandmother had gifted me years ago. It's a classic romantic style, a little faded and definitely seen better days, but it holds a special sentimental value. It reminds me of hours spent twirling around my bedroom pretending to be a prima ballerina. I added a vintage floral scarf and some pearl-encrusted earrings, channeling a slightly whimsical and bohemian vibe.
Of course, I also saw a spectrum of other #tututuesday styles on the streets of North Shields today, from the bold and dramatic to the sweetly elegant. Here are some of the looks that caught my eye:
- A "Little Black Dress" take: This trendsetter paired her classic little black dress with a tulle skirt, achieving that classic tutu silhouette with a touch of sleekness. A pop of colour in the form of scarlet lipstick and red shoes completed the look.
- The 'Punk Ballerina': Bold and fierce, this individual sported a tattered tutu with jagged edges, a ripped fishnet top, and heavy combat boots. Her makeup was an equally striking combination of black eyeliner and fiery red lipstick, showcasing her rebel-chic style.
- The 'Bridal Bliss': With an abundance of delicate white lace, a dreamy white tutu, and a glittering tiara, this queen of romanticism embraced a whimsical bridal aesthetic.
- The 'Glimmer Goddess': Sparkling sequins were the focus of this dazzling ensemble. An explosion of glitter adorned everything from the silver tutu to the high-heeled sandals. The effect was a glamorous and utterly captivating spectacle.
Beyond the aesthetics, there's something incredibly liberating about wearing a tutu. It feels playful and spontaneous. It's a reminder that it's okay to embrace our inner child and dance our hearts out, no matter how silly or extravagant it might seem. It's about shedding inhibitions and feeling completely free.
The beauty of #tututuesday in North Shields lies in its accessibility and inclusivity. It's not about mastering a perfect plié or having the most exquisite tutu, it's about enjoying the process, celebrating creativity, and having a laugh while doing it. You don't need to be a professional ballerina, all you need is a touch of imagination and a love for a bit of tulle magic.
The streets of North Shields might be filled with ordinary things most days: cobbled streets, fish and chips shops, and a lively harbour. But on Tuesdays, thanks to #tututuesday, there's a touch of extraordinary sprinkled in. It's a gentle reminder to unleash our inner sparkle, step out of our comfort zones, and just twirl.
So, why not give it a go yourself next Tuesday? It might just be the thing that turns your ordinary Tuesday into a truly memorable one.
After all, who doesn't love a bit of tulle magic? #tututuesday