Tutu Tuesday in Harrow: A Celebration of All Things Tutus 🩰
It's Tuesday, which means one thing: Tutu Tuesday! For those of you not in the know, Tutu Tuesday is my weekly ritual of celebrating the beautiful and iconic garment that is the tutu. I’ve been a professional dancer since the tender age of 16. In all of those years, I've danced in hundreds of tutus – classical, romantic, contemporary, and even the occasional experimental piece! From the classic white, four-layered, Romantic tutu to the wispy, ethereal tulle of the modern ballerina, there’s a tutu out there for every dancer and every taste. Today, I thought I'd dedicate this post to all things tutu, with a special focus on the wonderful selection of tutus you can find in Harrow. I am, after all, a Harrow girl born and bred, and I'm always excited to share the amazing local businesses I love with my followers.
If you're a fan of dance, or even if you're just curious about this iconic garment, you should know that the tutu is far from being just a piece of costume. For ballerinas, it represents more than just a skirt; it's an extension of our bodies, our movements, and our art. When I slip into a tutu, I feel powerful, graceful, and free. It’s more than just a fabric; it's a symbol of grace, strength, and elegance.
Now, let's talk about tutus in Harrow! This charming little town is a haven for dance lovers, and I'm going to take you on a journey through some of my favourite places to find the perfect tutu.
Where to find your perfect Tutu in Harrow:
- The Dance Boutique: This charming shop is a haven for any dancer, offering a fantastic selection of ballet shoes, leotards, and of course, tutus! Their selection is really diverse, catering to both professional dancers and recreational ones, like myself. They have everything from classic tutus to modern designs in a variety of colours. I’ve picked up some absolute gems there in the past! Their customer service is second to none and they have knowledgeable staff who can offer advice on everything from choosing the right tutu style to maintaining your garment.
- Sew Perfect: This local tailor is a lifesaver for any dancer needing last minute costume fixes or repairs. They've always been great to work with for quick fixes and even offer bespoke alterations, if you're after something more bespoke than your run-of-the-mill tutu. If you're looking to get a custom tutu, a bespoke fitting is the way to go. It's expensive but if you've got the funds, a custom tutu truly feels like you're wearing a unique piece of art that fits you perfectly. The staff at Sew Perfect are absolute experts, I often chat with them about their work, and have even taken ballet workshops at the studio above the shop.
- Secondhand Shops: For the bargain-conscious shopper, Harrow has some real gems in the form of second-hand shops. In fact, you'd be surprised by the quality of second-hand tutus you can find! I’ve found some great vintage designs at bargain prices. My latest find, a delicate lilac tulle tutu, came from a tiny shop hidden away on a back street. A classic piece in stunning condition, perfect for an elegant recital. The trick is to look closely, be patient and you can unearth some real treasures in second-hand shops. If you’re after that authentic ballet feeling without breaking the bank, secondhand shops are your go-to!
Beyond the shop, you can also explore Harrow's cultural side:
- The Harrow Arts Centre has regular ballet performances and exhibitions, offering a great chance to see dancers of all levels in action, and even see the latest styles and trends on display! Keep your eye out for any ballet exhibitions; it's a great way to learn about the history of ballet, admire the design of the tutus and even see vintage pieces.
- Harrow Library houses an impressive collection of ballet books and magazines. The local library often has a section dedicated to dance, and can be a treasure trove for budding dancers! You might be surprised by how much history, techniques, and information is available there on ballet. I’ve found so many valuable resources and information on my journey as a dancer. It's an excellent resource and a fantastic reminder that ballet has a fascinating history!
- The Harrow Parks: You can find countless opportunities for outdoor ballet practice and dance classes! Whether you are a novice or seasoned dancer, finding space to move and flow is invaluable, especially in this picturesque town with stunning parkland and leafy avenues.
But my favourite way to enjoy the magic of tutus in Harrow is by participating in classes.
- Harrow Ballet School offers an incredibly comprehensive range of ballet classes. Whether you’re looking for beginners, professional, or everything in between, the Harrow Ballet School has you covered. Their ballet classes range from traditional ballet, to more contemporary styles and modern dance techniques, but every class encourages dancers of all levels and experience. Their classes have helped me improve my technique, refine my movements, and of course, learn a new dance routine or two! They often host performance showcases that let dancers show off what they've learnt – an inspiring sight for any ballet enthusiast.
- Harrow Dance Studio is a contemporary space offering a wide range of classes, with some that incorporate elements of ballet, jazz, and even hip hop! It’s a brilliant studio if you're looking for something more dynamic and experimental and want to dance freely and embrace different dance forms. Harrow Dance Studio is incredibly inclusive and provides a space for dancers of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves, learn, and experiment!
Harrow is truly a haven for ballet lovers, from its diverse dance schools to its abundance of shops catering to our need for that perfect tutu, it’s no wonder Harrow is my haven! It's the perfect location to get your dance on, explore the history of dance and just indulge in the sheer magic of the ballet. I have a hunch that tutu fanatics from all over London will soon be making their way to Harrow – a true testament to this lovely town’s amazing dance community! #tututuesday