Tutu(tulle) Skirts Tales: The Whimsical World of Women’s Tutu Skirts

Hello, my fabulous fashionistas! Welcome to my very first blog post! We have interesting, educative, and stylish times ahead of us. Thanks for reading- I value your opinion and if you like what you have read, share my blog with as many fashionistas as possible. Do also let me know what content you wish for me to write more on!

Ok- now on to our subject!

Today, we’re diving deep into a world I absolutely love- the world of tutus. Whether you’re strolling through London’s cobblestone streets where I live, or attending a posh event, there’s one fashion piece that’s continued to take the world by storm: the tutu skirt. It’s not just for ballerinas or fairy tales; it’s for every woman who dares to showcase her inner prima ballerina. So, whether you’re 20 or 60, there’s a tutu skirt just for you. Ready to take a twirl through the rich history and versatile styling of this tulle marvel?

A Brief Waltz Down Memory Lane: The History of the Tutu
Originating from the French ballet, the tutu skirt was first introduced in the 19th century (1832 to be precise) when Marie Taglioni, a Swedish ballerina, took to the stage at the Paris Opera wearing a skirt cut to show her ankles- so scandalous at the time!! Its name stems from the French word ‘tutu,’ meaning “the bottom”. Although initially designed for ballerinas to showcase their intricate footwork, the tutu has pirouetted (spun/circled/turned) its way into mainstream fashion where it is regarded as a symbol of femininity, whimsy, and boundless style. Serena Williams even famously wore a tutu in one of her matches at the 2018 US Open!

Styling the Tutu: From Casual to Couture

• Formal Events: For 3 years in a row, I have been wearing tutu skirts for my birthday- clearly it’s an obsession (haha)! For my birthday last year, I attended a luncheon with my friends at London’s famous Sky Garden. I wore a long romantic black(!) tutu paired with a red blazer and heels from Zara. I accessorised with a Gucci belt and a black Versace Jeans clutch bag.The outfit was an absolute head turner – I can’t believe how many compliments I received.

• Parties: For my birthday earlier this year, I made it a party with my family at Oatlands Hotel in Surrey, UK.  I decided to go bolder- I paired a statement orange top from H&M with an equally bold blue tutu skirt! In such an outfit you are not just attending the party – you ARE the party! The whole outfit was bold with orange and blue accessories from Gucci as well, and there was no toning down this party.

• Photoshoot: A white tutu skirt is a must have and on this birthday I paired it with a white blazer, going for an all white look. The white tutu skirt exudes an air of delicate elegance and timeless charm.

• Casual Outings: Picture this—a pastel tutu, white tee, denim jacket, and converse. It’s the perfect blend of edge and elegance for a day out in the city. I am yet to style my tulle skirts this way.

Tip: Always remember, the bolder the tutu, the simpler the accessories. Let the skirt steal the spotlight! (Although I am not too sure if I followed my own advice on the blue tutu skirt outfit, haha!)

Styling Tips for All Ages

Tutu skirts look adorable on women of all ages – you just need to find the right style for your body type. Here are my top tips:

For petites: go for a shorter classical or fashion tutu that hits the knee. Avoid longer lengths that will overwhelm your frame. 

For taller women: have fun with a longer classical or high-low tutu to highlight your sculpted calves.

For hourglass figures: cinch in your waist with a tutu peplum or opt for a structured fashion tutu.

For teens & 20-somethings in general: rock a casual look with a knit jersey fashion tutu, crop top and sneakers. 

For 30 & 40-somethings: pair a tutu peplum with a blazer and heels for a night out.

For 50 & 60-somethings: embrace your inner prima ballerina with a classical tutu and fitted sweater or tank.

Where to Shop

High Street Brands: Brands like Zara, H&M, Asos, Karen Millen and Chichi London often have seasonal tutu collections. I have seen that the fuller the tutu skirt/dress is, the higher the price.

Online: My black and blue tutu skirts are from TheKemistStore, in London. The white tutu skirt (which was a dress turned into a skirt) is from ChiChiClothing. I have linked a few skirts below that you can check out.

Join the Conversation!
We’ve all had our tutu moments—some glamorous, some hilarious. Tutus aren’t just for the ballet anymore – they’re one of the must-have fashion items for your wardrobe. Whether you’re heading to a party, running errands, or going to the office, a tutu skirt allows you to have fun with fashion. Show off your unique style by rocking this prima ballerina staple your own way. 

Share yours in the comments below. Whether it’s a styling tip, a question, or a fun anecdote, let’s make this a twirl-worthy thread!

Again, as this is my very first blog post, feel free to let me know if you loved this post and what content you wish for me to write more on each week!

Until next time, stay positive.

Cher.

Xoxo