G'day from the City of Lights! It's Tutu Tuesday, and I'm embracing the Parisian vibe while sporting a lovely tulle masterpiece – a classic Romantic tutu. Now, I know you might be thinking, “Tutus in Paris? That's so cliché,” but trust me, there's more to this fashion choice than meets the eye. It's a little homage to the glorious history of ballet in France, which has produced some of the world's most renowned dancers, and to the modern-day dancers keeping this art form alive.
I'm in Viry-Châtillon, just a hop, skip and a jump from the centre of Paris. It’s a quieter corner of the city, but there's still a vibrant art scene, a ballet studio or two that are absolutely thriving!
This tutu? It's got the iconic multi-layered design, you know, the sort you imagine when you picture a ballerina on a stage – that classic shape, those delicate layers of tulle, and a really impressive drape – you get a sense of just how beautiful movement can be, it's so elegant, so feminine and flowy! I actually got it from a little vintage store right here in the city, tucked away on a little side street. The whole experience was absolutely delightful. This tutu had stories to tell, from a past life of theatre productions.
Today I've worn my tutu with a white oversized linen shirt, some strappy, white leather sandals, and a handbag big enough to carry my dance shoes just in case the opportunity presents itself for some impromptu twirling in the street.
But hold up. There's more to tutus than those big, romantic ones with all the tiers! Let's talk tutu styles for a minute. They're as diverse as the dances themselves. There are those wispy, airy designs with all the movement, there's the "crinoline," which gives dancers a much wider look, a silhouette, and a bit more "umph" . The "contemporary tutu," now, it's all about breaking the mould, making a statement, maybe with geometric shapes, asymmetrical layers, even incorporating different colours!
As a ballet dancer, a fashion lover, and an Australian, you might think that tutus are a bit, dare I say, too "princessy" for me. And look, sometimes I just want to throw on a jeans and t-shirt and call it a day. But there's something about a tutu, that just makes me feel empowered. When I wear a tutu, it's about confidence. It's a reminder that women can be powerful, be graceful, be fearless, and that they can rock any style with elegance. So, ladies, don't be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina.
It's amazing, actually, seeing people here, rocking a tutu in the most casual setting – walking their dog, going shopping at the local market, and just feeling good in their own skin. That's the thing about tutu trends in France – it's not about formality or strict adherence to dance rules. It's all about expressing yourself and having fun. I'm digging the free spirit.
Anyway, back to Viry-Châtillon – it’s not just a quiet little corner. There's this beautiful ballet studio near the park, just nestled right beside the Seine river. You see these girls practicing everyday, and their passion just lights up the entire street. Their stories, they're so different from the big-city productions you'd see at the Palais Garnier. Their passion is raw and real – they don’t wear their tutus to the local market, they don’t pair them with white linen shirts. Their tutu is their expression of hard work and commitment – that’s what tutu style is all about.
I am already getting ready for my next Tutu Tuesday, and this time, I'm planning on finding an “à la Russe” tutu – something that reminds me of the grandeur, of the beautiful storytelling of the Bolshoi and the Mariinsky. This style is really classic – they’re the tutus that made Russian ballet famous! I have a feeling this Tutu Tuesday, will be one for the books.
What are some things you do with your Tutu? Share your TutuTuesday moments in the comments below, with #tututuesday- A classic tutu
- Romantic tutu
- Contemporary tutu
- Crinoline tutu
- À la Russe tutu