Tutu Tuesday in Worksop
So, you know I love my tutus, right? There’s just something about them that makes me feel so graceful, strong and feminine. A bit like a modern day warrior princess, minus the weapons. Anyway, for Tutu Tuesday this week I wanted to head somewhere new, so Worksop in Nottinghamshire called out to me - maybe it was all those rolling hills, the historic Market Square or perhaps it was just that it sounded delightfully “proper” – a proper little English market town and a great excuse to bring the #tututuesday game up north.
I arrived at midday on a glorious autumnal day and right away it was like stepping back in time. This place has a vibe that I’m desperate to get more of in my life, which is probably why I love old architecture, period costume dramas, and the occasional vintage clothing shop (which are thankfully very plentiful in Worksop). The high street bustles with local life, there's no plastic facade, no giant chain stores - everything's individual. Perfect!
Anyway, the plan was to bring #tututuesday to the people, show the town the fun and versatility of tutus, and spread some positive energy - we all need a little of that in our lives. I wanted to wear a classic tulle tutu - you know, the traditional kind, a soft pastel shade with a delicate tiered structure. The kind I envisioned on a delicate ballet dancer with rosy cheeks and an air of innocent fragility.
I figured it might make the folk of Worksop a little less, er… "Worksop" to see someone skipping around in such a delightful, airy creation. And you know what, I think it worked!
My outfit, which included:
- Tutu (duh! It's Tutu Tuesday)
- Classic Breton striped top
- Statement pearl necklace (a bit of vintage charm )
- Burgundy brogues (I think brogues are fab, no matter what style of tutu you wear, and perfectly on-trend. My trusty brogues always make any tutu outfit look both classy and cool - not to mention comfortable. Who knew footwear could make you dance on air?).
- A red, vintage handbag (from a little gem of a vintage boutique I discovered on a back street )
Now, I'm no fashion guru, but if there's one thing I've learnt from ballet and all those tutus is to embrace colour. It’s definitely not just about black and white, you know. A pop of colour can bring a look to life! My choice for Worksop - classic navy - works well with every colour, is an absolute must-have in every dancer's wardrobe (in fact it should be in every woman's wardrobe )
The reactions I got on Worksop Market were amazing, truly heart-warming! Lots of laughs, some stares (but definitely no scoffs!) I had one elderly gent who took a photo of me and whispered "it's been a good day" with a smile that I’d never forget.
For the more "arty" crowd in the town (artists, vintage collectors and fashion lovers all came together in one gorgeous shop tucked away from the high street. Let’s just say I was totally inspired by the interiors, the fabrics, and the creative energy.) I decided to switch my look to something bolder: A more theatrical, modern, longer style, kind of a fusion of ballet and contemporary dance styles. This one was more “stage” ready, a kind of shimmering grey and silver with strategically placed metallic stripes (almost like the reflection in a window ).
And what did I learn from my Tutu Tuesday trip to Worksop?
- First and foremost: tutus aren't just for dancers or kids or any age really; everyone looks good in a tutu! No, really, everyone does! It’s that one garment that makes us all feel a little lighter. Just like it's good for your body to move, it's also great for your soul, to be comfortable with yourself
- Tutus have the magic of turning any situation into something special (like getting that second helping of your favourite treat at a Worksop cafe).
- The world would be a better place if we all wore tutus at least once a week – okay, perhaps that's taking things a little too far but there's nothing that gives more confidence and positive energy like the classic tutu! (but not if you're in a fancy dress competition as you are likely to lose. But I’ve learned not to win every time anyway)
And now, it’s back to the studio, more #tututuesday adventures await! Perhaps somewhere coastal? It will have to be somewhere with beaches, maybe Bournemouth or Brighton … a long white tutu and beach hair? (oh yes please) Keep checking in, folks, you never know what sartorial adventure awaits …#tututuesday