Dearest readers, Prepare to pirouette yourselves into a whirlwind of tutus, as I bring you a captivating tale of frothy fabric and fabulous feet! **Tutu-Mania Grips the Nation** Today, July 9th, 2001, has officially been declared 'National Tutu Day' – yes, you heard me right! The entire country has gone a little bit batty for these frothy beauties, and let me tell you, it's quite a sight. My dear friend Penelope (we met at a 'Twirling Through the Decades' gala - let's just say she was the one doing the most twirling, in a particularly magnificent neon pink creation) informs me that sales of tutus have soared sky-high. This surge of interest isn't confined to young ballerinas-in-training, either. My poshest boutique on Sloane Street tells me that their sales of feather boas have doubled overnight. And what, I ask you, are those feather boas going with? You guessed it! Tutues! The question on everyone's lips (and minds!) is: "Why all the tutu madness?" My take? Well, it's all down to that inherent yearning within each and every one of us - the desire to be a little bit whimsical. A little bit magical. We may be in the 21st century, juggling responsibilities and chasing deadlines, but we haven't lost that childlike spirit. A spirit that yearns for a touch of sparkle, a touch of wonder. And what could be more enchanting, more full of joy, than a gloriously frilly, impossibly delicate tutu? **From Tea Party to Street Party:** Forget boring old picnics! Across the nation, tea parties are becoming tutus-clad events, complete with swirling and twirling and enough cake to satisfy the cravings of a hundred sugar plums. The Royal Ballet itself is getting in on the action, launching a nationwide campaign: "Tutu Tuesday!" This sees all ballet classes open to the public (even if you've never had a toe shoe in your life - but do remember, darling, those toe shoes require years of dedication and meticulous training!), with discounts offered to those who arrive sporting a tutu (don’t worry if you haven’t got one, your local craft store probably has one with your name on it - the real question is, how many layers will you go for?). And on the streets of London, there are rumours of 'Tutu Races' happening on Hampstead Heath. You know the sort: the most colourful and voluminous tutu gets a prize! **My personal Tutu pick:** I’m off to try on my favourite tutu, the one I call 'the Sugar Plum Fairy' (think lavender satin with silver tulle, just enough glitter to create that enchanting "twinkling stars" effect, you know?). I'm thinking a cup of Earl Grey with a dainty scone, followed by a twirl or two in the backyard! What about you? Tell me all about your tutu adventures. This is one fashion craze that has a sweet touch of magic to it.
