Tutu Tuesday in Highbury: A Whirlwind of Tulle and Trendsetting
It's Tuesday, which means only one thing for me: Tutu Tuesday in Highbury! I've been living in this charming little corner of London for years, and the past couple of years have seen a glorious surge of ballet-inspired fashion, with Tutu Tuesdays gaining momentum and becoming a must-attend event for anyone with a penchant for the dramatic and the delicate.
But it's not just about wearing a tutu, though there's something incredibly liberating and joyful about swishing through the streets in a cloud of tulle. It's about celebrating dance in all its forms, from classical ballet to contemporary styles and even street dance.
As a professional dancer myself, I know that ballet can sometimes be viewed as elitist, exclusive, and even out of touch. But Tutu Tuesday is all about breaking down those barriers. It's a day where everyone, regardless of their background or experience, can embrace the joy and beauty of dance. It's a chance to wear your heart on your sleeve, or, rather, your tutu on your hips.
This week's Tutu Tuesday was particularly exciting, with a diverse array of tutus gracing Highbury's streets. We saw everything from classic romantic tutus with layers of shimmering tulle to edgy, asymmetrical tutus with modern twists.
Some tutus were custom-made, while others were vintage finds unearthed from hidden boutiques and antique shops. One of my favourites was a vibrant turquoise tutu worn by a local florist, the colour echoing the fresh blooms she carried.
But it wasn't just about the tutus. People of all ages came out, wearing bold colours, funky prints, and even sparkly shoes, channeling their inner prima ballerina. There were street food stalls, a live band playing jazz classics, and even a performance by local dance students, a breathtaking medley of pirouettes and contemporary moves. It was like a whirlwind of colour, music, and sheer joy.
Here are some highlights from Tutu Tuesday in Highbury, inspired by the amazing style I saw:
- Romantic tutu with a modern twist: The key is layering, creating movement and texture. Opt for a classic romantic tutu with several layers of tulle, but instead of the usual ballerina pink, consider a bolder colour like cobalt blue or emerald green. Finish it off with a pair of contemporary ballet flats for a sleek, street-ready look. #tututuesday
- The asymmetrical tutu: For those who prefer a more edgy aesthetic, an asymmetrical tutu is a fantastic choice. This type of tutu can be anything from a short, flowing skirt with a dramatic diagonal cut to a longer, multi-layered tutu that trails behind like a glamorous cape. The key here is to keep the colours and fabrics consistent, allowing the cut of the tutu to do all the talking.
- The "street-wear" tutu: This look is about combining the elegance of a tutu with the edgy coolness of street-wear. Think distressed denim jackets, graphic t-shirts, and statement sneakers. Look for a short tutu, preferably in a dark colour like black or navy, to contrast with your chosen street wear items. For an added touch of whimsy, opt for a tulle skirt rather than a traditional tutu. #tututuesday
I've been inspired to create a collection of tutu-inspired outfits for my own blog, sharing styling tips and offering fashion inspiration for all those who want to embrace the joy of tutus and celebrate the art of dance, both on and off the stage.
What’s great about Tutu Tuesdays in Highbury:
- It's inclusive and open to all.
- It provides an amazing opportunity to celebrate dance and the arts, whether you're a seasoned ballerina or just starting out on your dance journey.
- It’s a brilliant way to meet like-minded people, whether they be passionate about ballet, vintage fashion or street wear.
Tutu Tuesday in Highbury: It’s a celebration of movement, creativity, and the spirit of self-expression. If you ever find yourself in Highbury on a Tuesday, come along and be a part of this fabulous event. And be sure to hashtag #tututuesday and share your own amazing style creations!