Tutu Tuesday in Llanelli: A Dance of Whimsy and Fashion

It's Tuesday, which means one thing for me: tutu time! I'm not talking about the classic, poufy, romantic tutus that you might see in Swan Lake or Sleeping Beauty, though those have a place in my heart (and my wardrobe!). Today's Tutu Tuesday is about finding those tutus that are a little more playful, a little more whimsical, a little more... *me*. And what better place to do that than in the vibrant town of Llanelli, Wales?

Llanelli has always held a special place in my heart. It's where my grandmother taught me to twirl, where my passion for dance was born. It's a place that, even though I've been away for many years pursuing my professional career, feels like home. So, when I decided to embark on a Tutu Tuesday adventure, I knew exactly where I wanted to start.

My mission? To find the perfect tutu that captured the essence of Llanelli's charm: a mix of modern flair and classic charm. A tutu that could effortlessly transition from a trip to the local market to an impromptu ballet in the park (yes, I still like to improvise!).

After all, Tutu Tuesday is all about celebrating dance, expression, and finding a touch of magic in the ordinary.

My adventure started at “Dresses by Dawn” a small independent boutique nestled in the heart of Llanelli. A rainbow of fabrics and textures greeted me as I stepped inside. Dawn, the owner, was a veritable fashion magician. She'd conjured up a collection of tutus that were both breathtakingly beautiful and daringly unique. Think dramatic ruffles in vibrant hues, layered tulle that shimmered in the light, and playful appliques that added a touch of whimsical personality.

My eyes fell upon a short, full tutu adorned with delicate black lace. Its soft blush pink was reminiscent of a summer sunset, a perfect nod to the coastal beauty of Llanelli. A playful sprinkle of sequins across the tulle whispered of hidden glamour. I felt a surge of joy as I spun in front of the mirror, its delicate swirls tracing the air. It was a tutu that spoke of elegance and joy, perfectly capturing the spirit of Llanelli. This one was going home with me!

With a brand-new tutu tucked into my bag, I was ready for my Llanelli dance adventure. Armed with a phone filled with ballet music, I set off towards the charming park of “Stebonheath Park”, a green haven of leafy beauty, just a short distance from the heart of town.

As I entered the park, the vibrant green of the leaves and the smell of freshly cut grass were intoxicating. Sunlight filtered through the canopy above, painting dappled patterns on the grass below. My new tutu swished and danced with the gentle breeze, a perfect complement to the vibrant colours surrounding me.

I closed my eyes, felt the sunlight on my face, the breeze in my hair and imagined a world where everything around me could be brought to life through dance.

The music began and, like a dancer lost in their element, I allowed my feet to guide me as I twirled, leapt, and extended, moving seamlessly through the landscape, a graceful whirlwind of pink and black tulle.

My ballet wasn’t about perfecting pirouettes or nailing an intricate sequence. This was about uninhibited freedom, of expressing myself with unbridled joy and reveling in the magic of movement. Each step was a reminder of why I had chosen this life, why “Tutu Tuesday” is more than just a day; it's a reminder that life should always be filled with whimsy and the sheer pleasure of expressing oneself. It’s a reminder to not be afraid to embrace the unexpected.

My Tutu Tuesday in Llanelli had more to offer than just a pretty tutu. It was a day for finding inspiration, for rediscovering joy in unexpected places. It was a reminder that dance isn’t confined to the stage, that life is a constant, beautiful ballet, filled with a symphony of emotion.

And Llanelli, you were the perfect muse for my Tutu Tuesday. #TutuTuesday #Llanelli.

Here’s a list of the different tutu styles I tried in Llanelli today

  • Classic Tutu: This iconic design was featured in a delicate shade of pastel blue, with layers upon layers of tulle for a graceful and romantic look. The perfect choice for those who want a traditional tutu with a timeless elegance.
  • Ballet Tutu: For a more sophisticated feel, I fell in love with a ballet tutu with a black velvet waistband and shorter, but still full skirt, with white feathered trims. This tutu is a more fitted version of the classic style that showcases graceful lines and elegant movement.
  • Romantic Tutu This was the ultimate girly tutu. I loved its romantic charm. It featured a beautiful blend of pastel colours - soft lavender, pale pink and mint green. With delicate ruffles and shimmering fabric it gave an ethereal fairytale quality. This tutu was a dream come true!

If you're in Llanelli, do yourself a favour and pay Dawn a visit! You might find your own perfect Tutu Tuesday adventure awaits. Don’t forget to share your Tutu Tuesday experiences with me, I'd love to hear your story!