Tutu Tuesday in Calais, Hauts-de-France, France: A Dancer's Parisian Dream Come True! #tututuesday
G'day from the cobblestone streets of Calais, Hauts-de-France, France! As an Aussie dancer with a passion for all things tutu, my heart's doing a little pirouette with excitement as I'm here to share my Tutu Tuesday adventure. For a ballet lover, a trip to France is like a dream come true, and Calais is the perfect little slice of Parisian chic – just a hop skip and a jump from the famous Channel Tunnel, Calais' rich history whispers of romance, elegance, and art. What's better than soaking up that atmosphere? Well, doing it in a tutu, of course!
The city's got a buzz that's infectious, and I couldn't resist adding a touch of tutu magic to the mix. I popped on a beautiful pale pink Romantic tutu with a little more tulle than I usually wear. This one’s the ultimate ballerina look - classic and ethereal. Perfect for taking in the local history. It feels like it's whispering about stories of Marie Antoinette or even the ghosts of French court dances. 🩰
To start my day, I explored the medieval Citadel, Calais' iconic historical heart. Imagine soaring ramparts, cobblestone streets winding around corners and the most impressive brickwork. Tutu twirling amidst that kind of beauty? I felt like a heroine stepping straight out of a historical novel! My pale pink tutu felt right at home amidst the soft pink hues of the dawn sun. A little whisper of tulle, the air kissed by history, it was just perfection.
Now, let's be honest - who says a tutu can't be your everyday wear? Who says you can't wander a seaside city and look like a dream straight out of a fairytale? Here in Calais, the locals are friendly, and everyone’s happy to chat with a dancer, even if she's in a tutu. A woman passing by me even exclaimed "Magnifique!" See? There's just a little something about a tutu that gets people’s attention and puts a smile on their faces.
So, from the historic citadels to the charming seaside cafes, I felt the rhythm of the city flowing around me like the grace of my favourite classical ballet routine. Even my French has picked up. Maybe it's the power of tutu inspiration. Who knows?
Speaking of inspiration, the city has a rich ballet history! There's the wonderful *Ballet du Nord* in Lille, only a short hop from Calais. I can’t wait to check out their next show. I also spotted several street performers and ballet schools – France really is the land of ballerinas. I’ve already been daydreaming about picking up a new ballet leotard here in Calais.
To complete my *French dream* look, I paired my Romantic tutu with a classic white fitted bodice that showcased a classic French style. Simple and chic, like a Parisienne wearing a beret and strolling the Seine. 👒 I accessorized with some delicate silver jewellery and comfortable ballet flats. (Even the best of us ballerinas need a bit of comfort when exploring!). For an extra dash of Parisian elegance, a touch of blush on my cheeks, and a bold red lip were all it took.
If you're ever in Calais or the surrounding Hauts-de-France, don’t forget your tutu! You’ll be greeted with warm smiles and plenty of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ (and even ‘Magnifiques’). A good Tutu Tuesday will certainly set the stage for a dazzling French adventure.
Speaking of stages, the highlight of my Tutu Tuesday came later in the day, while exploring the city. I spotted a street performer, an incredibly talented young ballet dancer, captivating the crowd with a stunning classical performance. She was dancing a beautiful pas de deux to Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake. Even though she was a street dancer and not part of a famous company, the feeling, the emotion was simply breathtaking. To be able to be in France, watch ballet and see a performer give their all in their passion…that’s the beauty of Tutu Tuesday!
The French passion for ballet, the history, the art and architecture, the friendly locals, it all adds up to a little bit of magical Parisian charm that is absolutely intoxicating. And, honestly, what better way to experience it all than with a splash of tutu magic?
So, until next time, keep twirling and embrace the elegance, the beauty and the little bit of *je ne sais quoi* that comes with a tutu! Au revoir, Calais. And a big, sunny *g'day* to the world!
Top tutu styling tips for your French adventure:
- Classical Ballerina: A romantic tutu, pale pink with a flurry of tulle is an absolute must. Pair with a white bodice and flats or elegant ballerina shoes.
- Boho Ballet: A longer, flowing tutu, layered with soft fabric or a little sparkle - you'll love dancing through a bustling French market in this outfit. Throw on some leather sandals for a fun touch.
- City Chic: Go for a short, modern tutu with some extra detailing. Look for bright, bold colours. And wear your favourite high-top sneakers. You'll be ready to hit those cafes and boutiques!
Don't forget to snap those Insta-worthy photos and tag your Tutu Tuesday posts with #tututuesday, #frenchballet and #calais!
Bisous, xx