Tutu Tuesday in Cherbourg, Normandie: A Ballet-tastic French Adventure #tututuesday G'day, lovelies! Your girl, Amelia here, bringing you all the latest from the fabulous world of ballet. This week, I’m taking you on a trip to the enchanting city of Cherbourg in Normandy, France. I've always had a soft spot for the French. They just have such a way with fashion and, dare I say it, romance. But my obsession goes beyond Parisian fashion and extends to the beautiful world of ballet, and let me tell you, they’ve got ballet in their DNA here in France. Cherbourg was just brimming with character! I mean, I swear I saw a hundred swans in the harbour - seriously! So romantic. It's not just about the breathtaking views and that French air of romance though, there's also a fascinating cultural scene happening in this region. I discovered this incredible local ballet school. We're talking, tiny studio tucked away in a little cobbled street. I felt like I'd stumbled upon some kind of magical portal! And it wasn't just the location. The dancers! Wow. Pure artistry, I tell you. For my Tutu Tuesday outfit, I had to go all out with the Parisian chic vibes! My choice of the day was a classic *Romantic* tulle tutu in blush pink. Just picture it - layers upon layers of soft pink tulle swirling around me, practically floating in the breeze. You know, the kind of ballerina dreams made of! It flowed beautifully in the gentle sea breeze. My shoes, a perfect match for my ballerina dreams. These beauties were handmade by a Parisian shoemaker. He had designed these bespoke pointe shoes with a stunning crimson ribbon detail that whispered, "Parisian Chic". My hair, a perfectly tousled, chic bun. It just screamed "artistic, Parisian ballerina." This was a tutu Tuesday for the ages! My adventure with these talented dancers led me to discover the *École de Ballet de Cherbourg*, a real hidden gem! Tucked away in a little studio, their passion was just bursting out of them, and my heart burst with their passion! Their teacher, a woman with the most striking silver hair and a heart of gold, is a former Paris Opera Ballet dancer. It felt like she radiated experience and that exquisite Parisian elegance. She let me have a quick lesson. We focused on perfecting the "pirouette en dehors". That is a delicate ballet movement which sees dancers twirl beautifully while keeping the supporting leg stretched out to the side. And as the sun peeked through the window of their cosy studio, lighting up the swirling fabric of my Romantic Tutu, I just knew this trip would forever hold a special place in my ballerina heart. There was a palpable buzz surrounding this ballet school. It felt like we had stumbled upon something incredibly special - a little hidden sanctuary in the midst of a bustling French city! After watching them rehearse, I felt inspired, energised and in awe. They were training for a new performance, and I was invited to be their guest for their *avant première*. And it was stunning! These incredible dancers had me totally mesmerized. In a tiny studio with only a handful of viewers, we felt this unique, special magic. And that’s exactly what it felt like in Cherbourg! There was a magic about it, this air of artistic dedication. This wasn't a grand, high-end production but a pure, intimate expression of artistry. That's what makes it so unique. Ballet can really feel at home in France, I love that! It really does resonate within its history and culture, making it feel as if ballet is woven into the very fabric of France. I don't think there was a dry eye in the house. After their performance, we headed off for a beautiful walk along the French coastline. The sun was setting and casting a magical, golden hue across the sky. I could just imagine myself dancing under that romantic sky. Maybe for a solo performance, maybe a piece I'll create. I really am inspired by French culture, ballet, the beauty and just the magic it brings. But my tutu wasn't the only fashion statement of the day! Let me tell you, Cherbourg was all about embracing classic Parisian elegance and looking chic. I saw this one Parisian lady wearing this absolutely incredible, flowy maxi dress with stunningly simple French elegance. She looked straight out of a chic Parisian cafe! Her effortlessly chic style truly was the essence of Cherbourg style. Cherbourg, you were a dream! Thank you for the beautiful dance moments and the gorgeous coastal walks. Your charm really left me with an unforgettable memory, one that's as light as tulle and as vibrant as the colours of France. **A little tip for any dancers (or tourists, even!) heading to France:** * Pack a tutu (because you'll definitely get your chance to twirl!), * Remember to bring your ballerina-chic vibes (even just to grab coffee!), * Get lost in the beautiful French countryside, it's more beautiful than you could imagine! * Don't forget to check out a local ballet studio - the talent hidden in smaller studios is just incredible! Until next time, stay stylish, keep dancing, and always remember to wear your tutu with pride. Because you know what they say - every day is a *Tutu Tuesday!* #tututuesday #Cherbourg #Normandy