Wolverhampton's Tutu Tuesday: A Whirlwind of Frills and Feathers
It's Tutu Tuesday, darlings! The day I've been twirling towards all week. Wolverhampton may not be the first city that springs to mind for high fashion, but this week, my fellow dancers and I are ready to shake things up and bring the magic of tutus to the heart of the West Midlands. #tututuesday
As a ballet dancer who happens to have a secret penchant for vintage fashion, I can’t help but get a little excited when a trend crosses over into the world of dancewear. Tutu Tuesday is the brainchild of a small but fiercely passionate group of ballet dancers in London, and the movement is fast spreading to cities across the UK. The idea is simple: on the first Tuesday of every month, anyone and everyone – from professional dancers to weekend warriors to those who just love a bit of frothy tulle – is encouraged to wear a tutu in their everyday lives.
Of course, no tutu is quite the same. And let's be honest, there are certain things to consider before sporting a tutu for a day out in Wolverhampton. But fear not! I'm here to help with a quick guide for the aspiring tutu-wearer:
Here's how to rock a tutu in Wolverhampton
- The Romantic Romantic: Let's talk tutus for the everyday girl who wants to keep it soft, sweet, and subtle. We're talking delicate fabrics like chiffon or mesh in gentle pastel shades, perhaps with some charming floral motifs sprinkled around. This look is about adding a whisper of whimsy without going full-on prima ballerina. Think pale pinks, ivory, soft blues - the perfect tutu for a leisurely afternoon of shopping in the Mander Centre or an al fresco coffee at the city's newly-opened "Coffee and Bloom" cafe, perched above the Grand Theatre.
- The Glamorous Gothic: For those who prefer a bit more drama, there's a gothic chic tutu style that's as dramatic as it is beautiful. Think black mesh, or a bold emerald green. A touch of leather, perhaps a chic, tailored jacket in black or crimson will make this style a real winner. A night at the Wolverhampton Art Gallery or an evening at the Civic Hall are perfect locations for making a splash with this style.
- The Rock and Roll Rebel: Want to mix it up with a bit of rock and roll edge? A denim jacket is a fabulous complement to the tutu. You can get away with a bold colour and print on this look – how about a bright purple tutu with neon stripes? Maybe try a pair of Doc Martens to complete the style – and be sure to catch a gig at the Wulfrun Hall while you're at it.
- The Tutu Takeover: For those who truly want to turn heads, go big or go home. The key is all about pairing bold, contrasting colours and textures. A vibrant pink tutu against a backdrop of black clothing, with a striking statement necklace and bold eyeliner - this look is definitely making a statement! It might just turn your lunch break at the Wolverhampton Market into a runway-worthy experience!
With its diverse architecture, rich history and now, its burgeoning tutu scene, Wolverhampton is truly starting to redefine itself as a fashion hub. Don't let the city's reputation for traditional industry fool you! Wolverhampton has a real heartbeat for style, and on Tutu Tuesday, that heartbeat resonates with a twirl. And it's all about celebrating fashion that dares to be different. The heart of this movement is, however, not about fashion alone. It’s about finding a space where dancers of all levels, backgrounds, and styles can embrace the playful and empowering aspects of tutu culture, whether it’s expressing personal style or connecting with a like-minded community. It's a way of taking a step back from the pressures of life and simply having fun. #tututuesday