Tutu Tuesday 467

Tutu Tuesday in Small Heath: A Blast From The Past You know how it is: you're scrolling through your Instagram feed, catching up on all the latest trends, when suddenly... a burst of tulle! It's Tutu Tuesday! My favourite day of the week, when ballerinas all over the world dust off their favourite tutus and take to the streets, sharing their passion for dance. Today, though, Tutu Tuesday took me on a whirlwind journey back in time to the heart of Birmingham, to a little-known gem of a place called Small Heath. Let me tell you, this place is a bit of a time warp! Small Heath has always been known for its community spirit and it truly feels like a bygone era, where everyone knows your name, and the local shopkeepers treat you like family. As I stepped out of my Uber (let's be honest, not exactly a mode of transport you'd find in Small Heath), I couldn't help but notice the charming, almost retro, feel of the place. I had to confess, even for a seasoned tutu wearer like myself, I wasn't sure what to expect. But you know what? Small Heath didn't disappoint! From the quaint little tea shops to the cobbled streets, there was a charming authenticity about the place that had me feeling like I'd stepped into a Jane Austen novel. And of course, no trip to Small Heath would be complete without a visit to the famous Small Heath Market. Think a colourful melting pot of cultures, fresh produce, vibrant fabrics, and friendly smiles. It was a sight to behold! This time, I had come for a little #Tututuesday tour de force – with my trusty camera in hand, I was ready to document every fabulous moment! After all, #tututuesday isn’t just about showing off your tutus, it’s about embracing the art of dance, no matter what your background.

My #tututuesday Adventure:

* The first stop on my #Tututuesday tour was the heart of the market - Small Heath's legendary, multi-cultural, food stall – "Sam's Food Emporium". I mean, how could you have a #tututuesday without indulging in a bit of yummy food? * Then, I wandered down into Small Heath's quirky, hidden little lane. (If you ever find yourself in Small Heath, you have to make a point of getting lost in there!) The colourful murals and murals of historical significance and even the occasional Tardis-like phone box were quite a treat. (You could almost hear the Tardis's engine whining! ) * I also visited "A-1 Music Shop" which turned out to be like stepping back in time. Not just because it has some of the coolest retro records and music from decades past – but it had all kinds of fun and kitschy items from the 1950s and 60s, ( including a whole host of iconic, vinyl Elvis Presley albums ) I almost didn't leave – you know, what better setting than a Small Heath vintage shop, to give a fabulous “Viva Las Vegas“ #Tututuesday inspired pose!
Of course, I had to do some Tutu Tuesday styling – and let's just say, Small Heath inspired a rather retro look from me. Think: a fluffy pink and red layered tulle tutu, all-white, classic ballet pumps, a bright yellow, satin, silk bomber jacket , an embroidered white tee with "Dance", and my classic black fedora! My retro look perfectly matched the vibe of the shops in Small Heath. Let's just say, it's got all the feel of the “Rock N' Roll Ballerina.” As I strolled around, snapping pics and showing off my moves, I felt a real sense of belonging. People from the shops came out to say “Hi!” Some passersby even did little impromptu dance routines. It really is the community spirit of the area and that “anything goes“ vibe that made the day. Everyone is friendly, and open to just a little bit of silly fun! For all of you who live in Birmingham (or any other city in the world, for that matter), get yourself down to your local market. The experience you'll have might just inspire your next Tutu Tuesday outfit or even, you know, a whole dance troupe!
My Tutu Tuesday Thoughts on Small Heath: * The sense of history is palpable! The Victorian-era architecture and cobblestone streets take you on a journey back in time. ( You have to check out Small Heath's Grade II Listed "Old Meeting House", for starters!) * Small Heath has the friendliest and most welcoming atmosphere, it's got to be the best example of a close-knit community, with people supporting local shops, and their neighbours! * It’s bursting with individuality - From quirky vintage shops to colourful market stalls – you get the sense of it being a unique little gem of a community and a fascinating and surprising cultural melting pot. * It’s perfect for a spot of Instagram-worthy #tututuesday pics - think vintage shops, bright colours, cool alleyways – it really is the perfect setting! My Small Heath #tututuesday adventure will be one I'll cherish for years to come! Small Heath gave me the feeling of what Tutu Tuesday should really be all about: embracing the unexpected, connecting with the local community, and spreading joy and silliness wherever I go! It just goes to show that a spark of creativity can emerge from anywhere, even in a little town just outside the big city!