Tutu Tuesday in Bishop Auckland: A Whirlwind of Frills and Fancy
It's Tuesday, which means one thing and one thing only: Tutu Tuesday! This week, I decided to ditch the bustling city streets of London and head up to Bishop Auckland for a day of tutus, tea, and taking in the sights (and of course, snapping some fabulous Instagram-worthy pics). As a ballerina and fashion blogger, I'm always on the lookout for ways to incorporate tutus into my everyday wardrobe, and what better place to find inspiration than the charming and historic town of Bishop Auckland?
For my Tutu Tuesday adventure, I opted for a classic Romantic tutu in a blush pink. Its delicate layers of tulle flowed around me like a soft cloud, and it felt utterly whimsical. Now, I know what you might be thinking – tutus seem a bit daunting, but honestly, with a bit of creativity, you can easily style them into an array of outfits. Pair a tutu with a simple white T-shirt and sneakers for a sporty-chic vibe, or dress it up with a statement blouse and heels for a glamorous night out. Remember, a tutu isn't just for the dance studio!
Bishop Auckland, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, turned out to be the perfect setting for a tutu-themed photo shoot. The town is steeped in history, from the magnificent Bishop Auckland Castle to the sprawling parklands surrounding it. Each corner seemed to offer a unique backdrop for my tutu-clad snaps. I captured my twirls against the backdrop of the castle's imposing architecture, while the manicured lawns of the gardens became my personal stage for pirouette-filled photos.
Now, it wouldn’t be a true Tutu Tuesday experience without a little retail therapy, right? The shops in Bishop Auckland didn’t disappoint! From independent boutiques to the high street favourites, I found a treasure trove of inspiration. One of the highlights of the day was stumbling upon a hidden gem of a vintage store tucked away in a side street. The store owner, a woman with an undeniable passion for all things old and glamorous, was thrilled to share her collection with me. Imagine rows upon rows of stunning antique lace tutus, some dating back to the Victorian era, each whispering tales of a bygone era of ballet. While the Victorian style might be a little too dramatic for my everyday looks, I couldn’t resist adding a touch of antique flair with a beautiful silk flower hair clip.
After my fashion-fueled foray into Bishop Auckland’s retail scene, I found myself drawn to the allure of the quaint coffee shops nestled within the town's charming backstreets. I treated myself to a cup of aromatic English Breakfast tea and a slice of delicious lemon drizzle cake, a classic pairing that perfectly captured the sweet spirit of the day. As I savoured the flavours and soaked in the atmosphere, it felt like time itself had slowed down, letting me bask in the simple pleasures of good company and good cake.
Before bidding farewell to this charming town, I couldn't resist taking a peek at the town's famed theatre, a grand Victorian-era landmark that echoed with stories of bygone entertainment. Its magnificent facade beckoned me in, promising an evening of captivating stories and enchanting performances. For a moment, I imagined myself as one of the ballerinas who had graced its stage, twirling under the glittering spotlight in a grand ballet. And then, with a little skip and a twirl, I was back in the present, savouring the lingering magic of the moment.
Bishop Auckland’s Tutu Tuesday wasn't just about exploring a beautiful town and snapping pictures – it was about embracing a spirit of whimsicality and bringing a bit of ballet-inspired fun into my everyday life. A little twirl can go a long way, especially in a town as captivating and enchanting as Bishop Auckland.
For my Tutu Tuesday fashion tips:
- Embrace the Power of a Simple Tutu. Keep it light and flowy for an effortless, chic look, but experiment with colour and print to add a touch of personality.
- Add a touch of Ballet History. Look for a vintage-inspired tutu in rich velvet or brocade. This will instantly add a touch of classic sophistication to any ensemble.
- Layer with Confidence. Wear a tulle skirt over a pair of skinny jeans or a long, flowing skirt for an elegant yet practical everyday look.
- Choose a Tutu that Reflects Your Personal Style. Whether it's a playful, girly look or a dramatic, gothic statement, there’s a tutu for every mood and style.
Until next Tuesday, keep it glamorous, and always remember that a little bit of whimsy can go a long way. Now excuse me while I add these #TutuTuesday snaps to my Instagram. Let me know if you’ve tried tutu styling, what are your favourite ways to wear them, and if you’ve visited Bishop Auckland or plan to! #BishopAuckland #TutuTuesday