Tutu Tuesday in Hitchin: A Whirlwind of Twirls and Tutu Love
Okay, so I'm a little bit obsessed with tutus. Don't judge. It's a passion that runs deep! You see, as a dancer, a tutu is more than just a fluffy garment. It's an extension of ourselves, an embodiment of grace and power. And I love them, all of them! Each with its own story, its own personality, from the classic Romantic tutu, with its flowing, layered tiers to the more contemporary styles with their sleek, modern designs.
But even though tutus have always been a constant in my life, there's one day of the week that's dedicated to our beloved tutus: #TutuTuesday!
So, in the spirit of all things sparkly and pirouette-worthy, I decided to venture out into the charming town of Hitchin (which is, coincidentally, absolutely buzzing with tutu-loving folks). The goal was simple: embrace the tutu spirit, capture the essence of #Tututuesday and share it with you, my dear readers!
And let me tell you, Hitchin didn't disappoint! This town, nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, exudes a unique charm and, it seems, a serious affection for all things twirly. I'm not sure what it is, but Hitchin has this magical ability to make you want to twirl – it’s got a kind of infectious happiness about it. It's no wonder it was the inspiration for one of our most beloved literary heroines – Elizabeth Bennet from Pride and Prejudice!
I decided to start my day at the "Little Tutu Shop," a hidden gem tucked away on a cobbled street, near the picturesque church clock. A haven for tutu-lovers, the shop is a dream come true. Imagine this: Walls lined with delicate tutus, a whirlwind of colors from soft pastels to vibrant neon shades, a kaleidoscope of textures, shimmering sequins, feathers and frills… all dancing in the soft, natural light streaming through the arched windows.
And then there was the scent! Oh, the intoxicating scent of freshly starched tulle! This shop smells of magical rehearsals, of impromptu performances, of whispered backstage secrets… You know, the stuff of dreams! I could easily spend the entire day lost in the tulle and satin world within the "Little Tutu Shop." But a tutu-filled journey through Hitchin was on the cards!
My next stop was a charming tea room called "The Tutus and Teapot," a name that couldn't be more apt for our #Tututuesday mission. I knew this place was the real deal! Imagine: dainty teacups, delicate sandwiches, delectable scones and clotted cream, all served in a setting with elegant pink-and-white décor… It's a dream, it truly is!
As I sat sipping my afternoon tea, surrounded by tutu-inspired floral arrangements and framed pictures of dancers, a delightful group of tutu enthusiasts came in. They were all decked out in their tutu outfits, each showcasing unique designs and flair. I've seen some amazing tutus in my time, but the creativity of these women was truly breathtaking.
We spent the afternoon sharing stories, laughter, and inspiration, a heartwarming expression of our shared passion for twirling. My afternoon tea conversation made me realize that tutu wearing is about so much more than just looking good. It’s a reminder to express our individuality, to embrace our creativity and to dance our hearts out, no matter where we are. You don't have to be a ballerina to appreciate a tutu!
Now, before I continue with my #Tututuesday adventures in Hitchin, let me tell you about some of the tutu styles that caught my eye. We are living in the Golden Age of Tutus – there’s a style for every personality!
Here's a glimpse into my tutu musings:- The Classic Romantic Tutu: With its delicate layers of tulle and airy, romantic charm, it evokes a timeless elegance. It reminds me of those iconic ballerina poses – a true classic that will never go out of style!
- The Contemporary Tutu: It embraces a modern aesthetic, designed with a sharp, sculptural, minimalist approach. Often using a single, flexible, strong piece of tulle, this style represents power, fluidity, and innovation. This tutu truly inspires the ballerina of the modern age, it represents dance at its boldest and most courageous.
- The Pointe Tutu: This one is quite literally my favorite! It’s lightweight, it’s super bouncy, and it’s the only tutu made for dancing en pointe. Designed to float like a feather, the pointe tutu embodies the sheer grace and ethereal beauty of ballet.
- The Character Tutu: Designed with unique character, embellished with specific detailing that allows for narrative expression. From whimsical flowers to intricate sequined embroidery, the character tutu tells a story, a dramatic narrative through its embellishments.
- The Experimental Tutu: The Tutu world doesn’t only hold classical ballet; it’s a haven for experimental dance and art! This tutu style defies tradition, often integrating new and innovative materials – think of unexpected textiles like feathers, fabric flowers, silk ribbons, everything is fair game! It pushes the boundaries, encouraging dancers to be bold and free.
- The Everyday Tutu: Because why wait for the theater, the ballet studio or special events to wear a tutu?! You see them everywhere – worn for parties, celebrations, as festive outfits, they add a sprinkle of fun to any outfit! You don't have to be a dancer to embrace the joy of a tutu.
My tutu adventure in Hitchin led me to "The Twirling Teapot," another captivating tea room (this town must love tea and twirling!), where the walls were lined with vintage posters and antique photography of dancers from bygone eras. The air was filled with a heady mix of lavender and jasmine, the aromas swirling through the warm, elegant, antique room. It was here, amongst the floral-scented atmosphere, that I had a chance encounter with a group of ladies (let’s just say “ladies of a certain age,” ) who shared some fascinating stories about ballet. As it turned out, they were the former "Tutus and Twirls" group, a ballet club founded in Hitchin some fifty years ago.
It turned out that Hitchin had a thriving tutu culture all along – one that had endured for decades. Hearing their tales of dance competitions, annual ballroom events and ballets, their excitement and the twinkle in their eyes truly inspired me. They showed me how this passion for dance and for the tutu transcends generations, that this spirit is always alive within this town.
I also made a few more stops, grabbing some delicious snacks and discovering hidden gem shops filled with all sorts of treasures. It’s these charming little stops that truly make Hitchin such a delightful town. From independent bakeries, with their aroma of freshly baked croissants, to quirky antique stores filled with dusty vintage trinkets and secret book shops overflowing with must-read titles.
Hitchin’s got something for everyone! The town radiates this vibrant energy that invites you to discover something new every time you visit.
I found my #Tututuesday to be more than just an adventure in tutu-wearing and afternoon tea delight. It became a journey of discovering the heart of a town, of seeing the world with new eyes and realizing how powerful a simple piece of clothing can be – it is a reminder that dance is part of our culture and it is in us all!
So, whether you’re a ballet dancer, a fashion enthusiast, or just someone who loves to embrace the joyful spirit of twirling, get ready for a new kind of Tuesday — the day of twirling tutus! #tututuesday!