Tutu Tuesday in Newbury: A Whirlwind of Tulle and Tiaras
It's Tuesday, and you know what that means: Tutu Tuesday! Every week, this little ballet dancer takes to the streets (or, in my case, the cobbled streets of Newbury) to celebrate the most iconic garment in dance history: the tutu. From the classic Romantic tutu to the more contemporary, free-flowing styles, the tutu is more than just a garment – it's an embodiment of grace, artistry, and the sheer joy of movement.
Now, let's be honest, Newbury might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of dance fashion. This charming market town is renowned for its historical charm, its bustling Saturday market, and its abundance of quirky little shops. However, with my discerning eye, I’ve discovered hidden gems waiting to be unearthed in the local boutiques. You might not find a complete costume shop, but I've found the perfect blend of style and creativity here – the key ingredient for making tutu Tuesday a truly fabulous affair.
Today's theme: A Regency Rhapsody. We're stepping back in time with the Romantic tutu. Imagine a delicate tulle skirt, wispy and flowing, with layers that catch the sunlight. Think ethereal, whimsical, and oh-so-feminine. To truly capture that Regency elegance, I chose a dreamy ivory-toned tulle skirt – a gentle shimmer of the softest satin, paired with a delicate pearl-embellished bodice that brought a touch of Regency glamour. I've even managed to find a vintage-inspired lace collar in a nearby vintage store. Now, with my Regency-style hair updo and a touch of berry-stained lipstick, the only thing missing is a dashing Mr. Darcy to waltz with.
Tutu Tuesday is all about expressing your individuality. So, for this particular Tuesday in Newbury, I'm taking inspiration from the famous gardens of the nearby Highclere Castle. My makeup is subtly shimmering, mirroring the morning dew on rose petals, with a dash of lavender eyeshadow to recall the enchanting purple blooms of wisteria, my favourite spring flower. Even though I can’t actually dance through the sprawling flowerbeds of Highclere, this look certainly allows my imagination to take flight!
However, there is something special about choosing the right shoes. For this elegant, Regency look, I opted for the timeless black ballet flat. It’s understated and refined, perfect for a little town stroll. However, I'm not afraid to step it up – my choice of the perfect accessory adds a touch of flair. A little bow atop the flat, a glittering vintage brooch clipped on to my dress or an old-fashioned hat held in place by a jaunty, black velvet ribbon – these details add to the vintage feel.
While some might argue that a ballet tutu has no place on the streets of Newbury, I see it differently. I see Tutu Tuesday as a day to celebrate the art of dance in its purest form, even when we're away from the stage. Tutu Tuesday is about having fun with fashion, and I dare anyone to tell me that a good, graceful spin in a gorgeous tutu isn't a delightful way to brighten up any day.
For those of you who live in towns just as charming as Newbury, I implore you to embrace the magic of Tutu Tuesday and make it your own! The streets are your stage, the shop windows are your scenery, and you are the ballerina. Whether you wear a classical white tulle tutu, a playful multi-coloured creation, or even a simple ballerina skirt over a dress, embrace the freedom and joy of movement that the tutu symbolises.
In Newbury, this fashionista will continue to showcase the versatile elegance of this timeless piece of dance apparel. You’ll find me in my Tutu, exploring the antique shops, browsing the farmer's market, and discovering the beauty of this quaint market town. And if you see me on the streets, do come say hello! It's great to hear your thoughts on #tututuesday - what would your tutu style be?
A little Tutu inspiration from Newbury:
Let's face it, some tuts are more suited for dancing at the barre rather than wandering down cobbled high streets. But let's get those creative juices flowing. I think every tut is fabulously unique.
- Romantic Tutu: My choice today! With layers of delicate tulle and the dreamy romantic air – this one is ideal for a gentle walk. The floating and swirling style brings a touch of ballet to a day out in Newbury, especially paired with an elegant hair do or some subtle pearl jewelry.
- Classical Tutu: With its iconic pointed bodice and layers of stiffened tulle, the classical tutu has become a symbol of traditional ballet. I wouldn't want to wear it during the market on a Saturday, too many potential wardrobe malfunctions in those crowds.
- Contemporary Tutu: A lot of freedom of movement for me here! These tuts usually involve layers of softer tulle, often with unique asymmetrical or deconstructed designs. If I was hitting a cafe for a spot of lunch in Newbury with my gal pals, I could see this tutu looking just fab.
- Character Tutu: Let's be honest, you wouldn't want to be spotted in a character tut in the middle of Newbury town! It’s reserved for stage performances and would certainly get a lot of odd stares – but wouldn’t it be fun for a themed party!
And there you have it! It’s a reminder that every Tuesday, there’s a special occasion, and that occasion is celebrating the incredible versatility and style of the iconic tutu. This town may be filled with history, charming tea rooms, and a bustling Saturday market, but, this is just another reason why I love this part of Berkshire – you never know what delightful, whimsical inspiration awaits! Let's get #tututuesday trending!