4 Grown-Up Ways To Style A Tutu Skirt

Growing up, I was always into the idea of being a ballerina, wearing a tutu skirt, and dancing around the house. Until that dream was shattered when 4-year-old me decided that she wanted to do something else. Since then, I’ve been trying to figure out how to wear a tutu skirt like an adult without looking like I’m trying to be North West on Halloween every day of the year.

You might think it’s a bit ballsy to wear a tutu if you’re a grown woman, but seriously guys, there is no such thing as "too old to wear something." By adding a few solid accessories and really playing around with your closet, you can do everything from dressing up your tutu skirt to dressing it down to fit your style and comfort level. And it's a look that can be worn in any season.

I’d liken wearing an outfit with a tutu to wearing a cloud of happiness. Too cliché? It doesn't matter, because there is just something about slipping into a tutu skirt that makes me feel like I’m on another (stylish) planet.

Below are four very solid and unique ways to rock a tutu skirt. Different colors do have different effects on the look, but doesn’t that just go to show how versatile a piece it really is?

1. Sporty Spice

You can definitely give a tutu skirt an athletic look with a few sporty pieces. I kept this look simple and understated: Black leather cap, black tank, white top, black tutu, and black Jordans. It's an easy, effortless ensemble. And who says you can’t wear sneaks with a tutu?

2. Professionalism

For all the professionals who think they can't wear a tutu to the office, this look is for you. With a very minimalist feel, it's perfect for work, date night, or even to conduct a keynote speaking event in. Most of the emphasis will still be on the skirt, but the heels, turtleneck, and bag really play up the whole professional feel.

3. Casual Chic

Again, any so-called rule that tells us we can't wear Converse with our tutus is inherently flawed. This look is all about being casual and comfortable. It does have a bit of that '80s flair, but that's the decade bound to start trending after the resurgence of all things '70s, right? You can throw such an outfit on to head to the mall or attend a quick brunch date with the girls.

4. So Fancy

One cannot talk about styling tutus without going all fancy. So this look is all about feeling fancy AF. I paired a turtleneck crop top, nude heels, statement necklace, and clutch with the tutu skirt, and the look is classy enough for a wedding or formal affair, but can even work well on dates or brunches. It is more of a summer look, sure, but throw a cardigan in there and you’ll be good to go.

So it really is possible to wear a tutu skirt as an adult? I do get some looks when walking across the street with these outfits, but pft, I’m going to take them as a compliment. There’s just something that comes over you when you take to the town in a tutu skirt that makes you want to twirl around like a dancer. So whether you pick black, pink, yellow, or any other color, just rock the heck out of it.

Images: Francesca Castor