Darling, it's the 22nd of September 1997. A glorious autumn day, crisp air, leaves starting to turn, and you know what else? It's tutu time! Yes, that's right, the humble tutu, that quintessential symbol of all things graceful and twirly, is back in the spotlight. It seems even the world of fashion has been swept up in the *whirlwind* of the tutu this season, with designers from Vivienne Westwood to John Galliano throwing a leg into the tutu game.
Of course, we know that the tutu has a long and storied history. It's been the go-to outfit for ballerinas for centuries, and it's not just about looking pretty - it helps the dancers move with freedom and elegance. Honestly, they’d look ridiculous in jeans, darling.
But what about the *average* girl, the girl who doesn't quite have the, ahem, skills of a professional ballerina? You know the ones, they struggle to remember left from right, and a “grand jeté” means getting your foot stuck in a rug, never mind *across the stage*. Can we still embrace the tutu?
Well, my darlings, the answer is a resounding yes!
You just have to do it with the *right attitude*.
Here's how you can rock the tutu without feeling like you’ve accidentally walked onto a set of The Nutcracker:- The key is confidence. If you're rocking a tutu, you’ve got to own it. Chin up, darling! Walk like you own the room. And definitely do not, *under any circumstances* use the word “tut” when talking about them, we’re above that now.
- The colour choice is all important. A traditional, *proper* tutu, that lovely pristine white or classic pink? Best left to the pros. I’m thinking daring, darling! Black, fiery red, vibrant yellow - let the colour be bold, just like you! I am, *of course*, not referring to the little, little girls, one-piece pink variety. Not at all. (No one wants a wardrobe malfunction, darling!)
- Pair it with something unexpected. This isn't your usual "pink and frilly" outfit. Try pairing a black tutu with a leather jacket and chunky boots. Now we're talking! The clash, the juxtaposition - oh darling, it's simply *delicious*. But a leather jacket’s out for that black tie ball. Be practical and dress according to the occasion. Think about a classy sparkly top, or a beautifully embroidered silk shirt for your evening out - a beautiful beaded evening bag completes this lovely ensemble. It’s like a princess meeting a rocker, just perfect, my dear.
- Keep it short! Unless you are actually attending a ballet, my darlings. A floor-length tutu will turn heads alright, just not the ones you want. I'm not suggesting that the mini skirt is your *only* option, but *think it through* - maybe an elegant midi with some great statement shoes. Don’t forget the sparkly tights, the better the more sparkly! Or perhaps you’ll want the high, *thigh-highs* - and maybe, just maybe a beautiful satin evening shoe! So much opportunity. But always choose according to occasion.
Listen, darling, the tutu is not a costume - it’s an *expression* of yourself. I can see it now. Tutu. A powerful symbol. A celebration of feminine energy. Now you might say to me, “But Fiona! How am I to get hold of this fabulous garment?”. Oh darling, I am going to enlighten you. The big fashion houses are offering tutus. But just go to one of your lovely high street retailers. All the big chains will be stocking these marvels. There will even be online stores offering amazing choices and a great range of prices, whatever your budget. If all else fails, make your own! Nothing beats something made especially for you, so if you can knit, you can do anything. That's it, the perfect tutu - right here. Ready for you to add that spark of excitement and drama to your life.