Tutu Tuesday in Ruislip: A Dance Through Time with #tututuesday
It's Tuesday, which means it's time to embrace the elegance of dancewear with #tututuesday! And for me, it also means it's time to take a twirl down memory lane, revisiting my very own ballet journey, which started right here in Ruislip, where I still call home. I might be strutting the stages of London now, but there's nothing quite like coming back to your roots and celebrating where the love affair with dance began.
Ruislip may not be renowned for its vibrant ballet scene (sorry, but even the Swan Lake doesn't have a feathered headdress like a swan!), but it was in Ruislip that my love for the graceful art form was born. Those memories of our ballet school are what make my #tututuesday so special. From the creaking floors of the dance studio to the anticipation in the air as we donned our tutus, every Tuesday felt like a magical escapade into the world of graceful movements.
Talking of tutus, let's be honest, a good tutu can truly elevate any #tututuesday. A well-chosen tutu can add a touch of whimsy and sophistication that truly captures the essence of this whimsical tradition. Now, for those of you new to the wonderful world of tutus, a little inside information - there's a tutu for every mood and occasion.
First, there's the classic romantic tutu. Think romantic ballet stories like Swan Lake and Giselle. They are often made with layers upon layers of tulle, creating a soft, voluminous silhouette that radiates an air of romanticism. You know, the kind that makes you believe in true love and sweeping romance? I once wore a delicate champagne coloured romantic tutu for a performance of Swan Lake and I swear, it transported me back to the era of grace and elegance.
Then, there's the more contemporary and streamlined "tutu" called the "demi-pointe" or "pointe tutu" - not actually a tutu, as they are not worn as the outer layer for ballet and typically only seen worn by ballerinas dancing at the highest level. Demis and Pointes can take a ballet dancer from the realm of ballet school right up to performing on stage.
The demi-pointe tutu, for those unfamiliar, is slightly shorter and structured - It often has a built-in waist that emphasizes the body's shape. Pointe Tutus are very minimal but they can hold up the ballerina as they dance en pointe. Both give a ballet dancer that little bit extra freedom to be bold, fearless and express their unique style. They are for dancers of confidence, power and who move through life with grace. You know - the type of ballerinas who make us swoon over them from the comfort of our seats! I have so many great memories of seeing dancers wear them and being utterly in awe of their athleticism.
So here's to #tututuesday and all the memories and aspirations it holds for us dance enthusiasts, regardless of whether we are on the stage or enjoying it from the audience.
It was in Ruislip that my love for dance began, and on #tututuesday I take a trip back in time and remind myself that my journey started somewhere – somewhere modest and unexpected.
In honour of this wonderful day of dancing and tutu-themed fashion, I thought I'd share my own personal tutu collection.
- My Vintage Classic: This pale pink tutu with a single layer of delicate tulle is truly a treasured piece from my time at the ballet school in Ruislip. I can still smell the sweet aroma of that classroom in its fabric! (Don’t get me started on those worn out elastic straps, you'd think they'd become antique themselves with all those years!).
- My Stage Star: A shimmering black demi-pointe tutu that added an element of contemporary elegance to my first performance at London's Sadler's Wells - and let's just say, this tutu gave me a dose of stage confidence. That day felt like a dream.
- My Dance Party Darling: A vibrant fuchsia tutu perfect for rehearsals and casual outings. Nothing says "party time" like a pop of colour.
- My Ballet Barre Basic: A simple white ballet tutu - it's perfect for warm ups and casual dances around the home. I always remember how many times I've gone through the steps over and over in this simple and chic piece.
Ruislip may be a small town, but my personal memories - and my own ballet journey - were forged in this small corner of west London and I still remember that first day with vivid clarity, the anticipation bubbling over in the air. Now, I look forward to embracing #tututuesday - a day for reflection, reminiscence and a little light dance in honor of that first leap of faith. And I hope this glimpse into my collection encourages you to dig out those tutus and dance through your own memories.