Tutu Tuesday in Lisieux, Normandy, France #tututuesday
G'day from sunny (okay, maybe not so sunny today) Lisieux, Normandy, France! This Aussie ballet dancer is on a whirlwind tour of Europe, and I'm living my absolute best life – which means tutus, obviously. And today's Tutu Tuesday is all about embracing the Parisian chic vibes, but with a touch of Aussie flair.
Okay, I know what you're thinking. Lisieux? Not exactly the epicentre of fashion. But hold on to your pointe shoes, babes – this little French town has some surprises up its sleeve. And no, I'm not talking about croissants (though they're damn delicious, trust me). I'm talking about its deep-rooted ballet heritage.
You see, Lisieux boasts a vibrant ballet scene that's been around for generations. There's a local ballet company, the Centre Choregraphique de Lisieux, which brings contemporary and classical performances to the city's charming Theatre de Lisieux. It's the kind of intimate, artistic space that really lets you connect with the dancers, and where you can almost feel the passion for the art form in the very air you breathe.
Now, about this tutu situation. I've been seeing all kinds of amazing tutus while I've been in France. We're talking romantic tulle, the iconic "powder puff" tutus for those classical masterpieces like Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty, and some pretty out-there contemporary styles that you could only find on a European stage (think dramatic silhouettes and abstract shapes). There's even this one ballerina I saw in Paris who had this absolutely *gorgeous* multi-layered tulle skirt. It was almost like a ballerina dream, the kind you'd sketch out on a notepad between rehearsals. It was just SO dramatic, yet still light and floaty. You know, one of those things you have to see to really understand.
It's inspiring, you know? And it really highlights the versatility of the tutu, which I think sometimes gets overlooked. You can have this big, elaborate classic tutu with layers upon layers of tulle – those are really amazing for a performance like Swan Lake because they give you this airy, almost ethereal, quality – but then you can also have this minimalist, almost functional-looking tutu. I saw this amazing one at the Paris Opera, this contemporary work, and it was really all about the movements, the dancer’s body, and the expression, and the tutu just emphasized the lines and curves – it was truly beautiful.
Anyway, this week, I'm feeling the vintage vibes. So, I’m sporting a classic tulle tutu with a soft pink satin lining and a super-sparkly bodice. I paired it with a chic beret, because you know, it wouldn't be a French fashion moment without one. I've got my hair in a low bun – chic, practical, and just a touch messy (because who actually has time to perfect their bun on tour?). And a trusty pair of ballet flats – I've got these beautiful leather ones with a little bit of glitter on the toe – just to add a bit of glam, you know? This is my ode to French femininity. I call it "Tutu à la Française." It’s a little Parisian chic with a touch of "I don't need a stylist – I've got a pointe shoe in every color!" Aussie grit. It’s that *je ne sais quoi* if you know what I mean.
But the real reason I love this look? It's like wearing a portable ballet stage, it makes me feel ready to perform, to dance in the streets, and that's what ballet is all about. Plus, it gets the other tourists snapping photos. They usually point and mutter, "Ah, c'est une ballerine?" Then they give me the thumbs up and a smile – the universal language of ballet appreciation, right?
My Top 5 Tutu Tuesday Style Tips for Parisians and Tourists:
- Embrace a classic look. Think simple, timeless styles. Parisian chic is all about effortless elegance.
- Embrace a bit of drama – whether it’s with an elaborate tulle tutu or a super sleek silhouette – let your confidence shine!
- Always accessorize. I'm talking a cute beret, a scarf, and some elegant ballet flats (don’t be afraid of sparkles!), or a sleek handbag to complete your look.
- Make sure to keep things comfortable, and functional – even if you're channeling the ballet vibe. Think about your schedule for the day and if you'll be walking a lot, so your look works for you! You've gotta be ready for anything when you're in France, especially in a tutu.
- Don’t forget about your smile. French or otherwise, a little sparkle never goes amiss!
And if you’re in Lisieux, make sure to check out the Centre Choregraphique de Lisieux for a performance – you won’t regret it!
Keep on twirling, everyone,
Your Aussie Tutu Queen,
#tututuesday