Tutu Tuesday in Melton Mowbray: A Whirlwind of Tulle and Tradition
It's Tuesday, which can only mean one thing – Tutu Tuesday! And for this week's dance-fuelled adventure, I decided to take a little trip out of the studio and into the heart of Leicestershire, the charming market town of Melton Mowbray. Now, Melton Mowbray might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think "ballet," but trust me, this little gem has a certain charm that deserves a pirouette in its direction.
So, with my trusty tutu bag in hand (you never know when a spontaneous twirl might be called for, darling!), I embarked on a journey to explore this delightful town, searching for a unique twist on the classic Tutu Tuesday look. Melton Mowbray is known for its rich history, particularly its connection to the delicious Melton Mowbray pork pie – a veritable symbol of British culinary pride! Now, I'm not saying that I paired my tutu with a pork pie (though the thought was certainly tempting!), but I did choose a tutu with a subtle nod to this iconic treat – a beautiful blush pink hue with delicate floral accents. It was the perfect balance of whimsical charm and refined elegance. I mean, you don't just waltz into Melton Mowbray in any old tutu, do you?
My journey began in the bustling market square, a vibrant tapestry of colourful stalls brimming with fresh produce, local crafts, and a truly contagious sense of community spirit. The air was alive with the chatter of locals, the gentle clinking of coins, and the tempting aroma of freshly baked bread. You know that feeling of contentment, like you've stepped back in time and into a simpler, sweeter world? That's the vibe of Melton Mowbray.
Now, you can't talk about Melton Mowbray without mentioning the legendary Melton Mowbray pork pies, the true culinary jewel of this town. They are simply legendary. However, my Tutu Tuesday style was inspired by the more refined, even "ballerina-esque," side of Melton Mowbray's heritage. Melton Mowbray was once home to a thriving shoemaking industry, crafting beautiful footwear renowned for their craftsmanship. You might not find the cobbled streets brimming with shoemakers anymore, but the craftsmanship and dedication still shine through.
My exploration led me to the fascinating Melton Mowbray Museum, which celebrates the rich history of this town and its diverse crafts. I delved into exhibits showcasing Melton Mowbray's shoemaking heritage, admiring the elegant and intricate footwear crafted with a skilled hand. It reminded me that the perfect tutu deserves the perfect pair of shoes. And speaking of shoes, let's talk tutus. This week I've embraced the romantic whimsy of a "Romantic Tutu," also known as a "Layered Tutu." I love the sheer romance of a "Romantic Tutu," so billowy and full. A “Romantic Tutu,” particularly in a blush pink, almost looks like an abstract bloom. My blush pink tulle paired well with a vintage-inspired cardigan – it felt quintessentially "me," with just a dash of vintage romance. I have a vintage, yet elegant and understated, collection of shoes which includes pumps with a slightly squared toe (quite trendy right now!). This week's shoe choice had an ivory and cream color scheme to complement the delicate, pale pink and cream-like white of the tutu.
Stepping out of the museum, I continued my exploration through the charming cobbled streets of Melton Mowbray. I was truly smitten with the town's historical character, preserved with love and a gentle sense of pride. From the beautifully maintained Victorian architecture to the hidden courtyards with vibrant flowers and lush foliage, I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped into a vintage postcard. It was the perfect backdrop for a tutu-clad adventure! I wandered into a delightful bookshop with rows and rows of enticing literary gems. The air was heavy with the intoxicating aroma of aged paper and bound parchment, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It was in this cozy, literary haven that I discovered a fascinating collection of vintage ballet books, a beautiful reminder of the timeless elegance and grace of the art form. You know I had to snatch a few treasures for my collection. After all, what's Tutu Tuesday without a little bit of ballet inspiration, right? The sun was starting to dip towards the horizon, painting the sky in warm hues of orange and pink. I knew it was time to find the perfect spot to capture my #TutuTuesday in Melton Mowbray, a testament to the town's timeless beauty. And where better to capture the essence of Tutu Tuesday in Melton Mowbray than by the impressive Melton Mowbray Town Hall? Built in the mid-1800s and boasting an elegant Neo-Classical architectural style, it's a grand symbol of the town's prosperity. I waltzed my way into the town hall square and snapped away. My Romantic Tutu had a little extra swirl and bloom to it thanks to the golden afternoon light, making for a pretty lovely shot. My vintage inspired cardigan was just right against the town hall's sandstone stone facade. There are a number of fantastic spots around Melton Mowbray where #TutuTuesday enthusiasts will feel at home. I would also recommend: * **The market square – where I began my adventure, with vibrant colors and charming stalls – a picture-perfect setting for any #TutuTuesday!** * **Melton Mowbray Castle – although just ruins now, its striking presence is worth a twirl in your Tutu. It adds a bit of historical grit to your ballet-esque ensemble. ** * **The Victorian "Scalford Bridge," where a walk over the ironwork can bring a wonderful view over the surrounding countryside. This would be a splendid setting for #TutuTuesday – the elegant backdrop of the iron bridge in contrast to the rural backdrop. It's quite stunning.** * **Melton Mowbray’s historic Church, Saint Mary’s church. The towering spire has been standing tall for over 700 years! For any Tutu enthusiast with a penchant for the historic, you simply must experience a stroll past this gorgeous church. ** I bid farewell to the charming Melton Mowbray, carrying with me a sense of contentment and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of small-town life and history. As for my #TutuTuesday in Melton Mowbray, I'm proud to say it was an absolute delight. A perfect combination of historical charm, architectural wonder, and the graceful flow of a classic ballet tutu. And what's the best part? No matter where you are in the world, you can always celebrate #TutuTuesday!