Tutu Tuesday in Bellingham, Washington #tututuesday Hey, Tutu Tribe! It's your girl, Amelia, coming at you live from Bellingham, Washington. It's a beautiful Tuesday, the sun is shining, and I'm feeling as vibrant as a fresh, crisp tulle tutu! So, it's #TutuTuesday, and this week we're going beyond the classic. While I adore the grace and elegance of the traditional pancake tutu, with its billowing layers, let's talk about some more adventurous styles that are blowing my mind (and inspiring some serious pirouette envy!). Exploring the Spectrum of Tutu Styles * **The Romantic Tutu:** Think swirling layers of ethereal tulle that billow as if caught in a summer breeze. Perfect for bringing a touch of old-world charm to your contemporary or classical choreography. Think delicate and graceful, like the tutu in Swan Lake, which reminds me of those Victorian novels with ladies in voluminous gowns. It's romanticism distilled in fabric. * **The Asymmetrical Tutu:** Prepare to be wowed! This style breaks the mold with a single layer of tulle cascading unevenly for an undeniably modern, and unexpected touch. Asymmetrical tutus are the bold statements of the tutu world. It's a visual dialogue about balance and design that makes for a striking effect. * **The "Hard" Tutu:** I call them hard tutus because the fabric feels firmer, which lends itself to a more architectural shape. Often paired with tight bodices, these tutus give a powerful and dynamic look, that can handle even the most demanding jumps and turns. Think a dramatic red tutu in the fiery "Firebird." They just demand attention, like a beautiful red sports car with power and grace! * **The Layered Tutu:** These beauties offer the drama of multiple layers with a streamlined shape. Imagine a graceful layering effect in the iconic “Nutcracker,” but without all the billowing. These tutus can be a bit like layering jewels in fashion. There’s just something extra-special about seeing the fabric fall in tiers. **Finding Your Tutu Style in Bellingham** I've been scouting the shops around Bellingham for the perfect tutus, and I’ve got to say – the ballet scene here is bubbling over with creativity and talent. It’s hard to go anywhere in Bellingham without seeing a dance studio! * **Dance Boutique Northwest** This shop is a real treasure trove for any dancer, especially one who loves to twirl. It’s on Holly Street, tucked into a little nook just off the main downtown area. They carry a great variety of brands and styles, from classic to modern, to make sure you find a perfect tutu. I found a breathtaking “hard” tutu with crystal-like embroidery around the bodice and layered tulle panels. It was like a futuristic version of a classic tutu. * **The Costume Shoppe**: You’ll want to check out The Costume Shoppe for a huge selection of styles for all occasions – stage performances, competition, or simply a night out with friends. They’re the ones to check for the most popular styles for competition, which are designed for strength and maximum visual impact on stage. **Sharing the Tutu Love on #TutuTuesday** The best thing about Bellingham is that it's so close-knit – we truly support our arts scene, from the big Broadway productions to the small, local studios. I encourage you, dear dancers and Tutu Tribe members, to head over to your local shop and embrace your inner ballerina. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the various tutu styles out there. Whether you go for the classics or a modern twist, we want to see your Tutu Tuesdays on social media. Now, go on – grab that tulle, dance, and celebrate! I’m already scheming for the next Tutu Tuesday and wondering which style will steal the show! And be sure to use #tututuesday!