Tutu Tuesday 18369

Tutu Tuesday in Octeville, Normandy, France: #tututuesday Bonjour from Octeville, Normandy, where the cobblestone streets and charming cafes are just as enchanting as the stunning ballet productions I've been lucky enough to catch here! Today's a special day - Tutu Tuesday, and you know what that means - it's time to talk all things tutus! My ballet journey has taken me from the studios of Melbourne to the world's most prestigious ballet companies. Now, I'm on a mission to explore the captivating world of ballet beyond the familiar confines of Australia. So, why Octeville, you ask? Well, this beautiful region in Normandy holds a unique charm that's perfect for exploring the artistry of ballet beyond the Parisian spectacle. The elegant mansions, the quaint cafes and boutiques, and the charming churches, all reflect a history intertwined with artistry and refinement. And guess what, it's in a region known for its captivating historical links to ballet in France. The Normandy Ballet company (Ballet de Normandie) is quite renowned, you know. I just have to pop by and witness it first hand. And as a fellow dancer who understands the impact of every single detail of costume and design, it would be a shame to miss that. But back to Tutu Tuesday. Let’s start by talking about some of the different styles of tutus. I just had a go with a beautiful *Romantic Tutu*, that one that’s longer and flowy, just a dream of delicate layers and airy silk. So dreamy! You can imagine that you're floating with it on the stage - definitely giving the feeling of whimsicality. Another option is a *Classical Tutu*, with the famous "bell" silhouette. You’ve probably seen one before and they're often used for pieces like *Swan Lake* and *Sleeping Beauty*, so I'll have to track down a performance soon! And who can forget the *Contemporary Tutu*, which is less structured and allows for a more dynamic range of movement - a truly incredible mix of style and substance. I feel very much in my element, playing with different tutus, and finding what suits my style. I even got to explore some local *Regional* styles here in Normandy, and let me tell you, they're as fascinating as they are gorgeous. Each one holds a unique history that’s reflected in its unique designs and silhouettes. However, to me, a Tutu Tuesday isn’t complete without visiting the local boutiques and ateliers where these breathtaking designs are crafted! There's a shop down the road I discovered on my exploration called "L'Atelier de la Danse" – oh my, let me tell you, this is where it all goes down. They’re home to a treasure trove of delicate fabrics and intricate details. The passionate craftspeople I’ve met here pour their hearts into making each tutu a masterpiece! It’s clear their passion for dance extends to creating each one with an artistry that reflects the elegance of each movement, the fluidity of every pirouette. While tutus may be the highlight, let’s be real – the perfect ballet look is about more than just the costume. To nail it, you have to complete it with the right hair and makeup as well. I feel like my hair deserves its own blog post! I went for a loose chignon with delicate wisps of hair falling around my face, it’s classic and elegantly messy in a perfect French-style I’ve always loved, plus, it lets you showcase the details of the neckline of the tutu - it's the little things! And as for makeup, it's a whole other ball game. You have to achieve the balance of looking flawless but natural for a dancer. My aim is to look polished with natural hues that accentuate the beauty of the dancer’s features and not overwhelm them. Of course, no fashion post is complete without a mention of the essential shoes! Speaking of shoes, the pointes here in Normandy are different to the pointes we have back home, in Melbourne, and they tell stories about the different regional styles. It's fascinating how the local ballerinas take such pride in the shoes. Each pair is handcrafted, and some even include intricate details. The craftsmanship here, like everything else, is remarkable. And the story behind every tutu goes beyond the craft of creating them. It's the hours of practice, the commitment to the craft, and the enduring passion for dance that fuels the spirit of every ballerina. Each step they take, each graceful pirouette they execute - every single thing they do comes from that same passion. And that’s what I love about dance. If you’re an avid ballerina or a simple enthusiast of beautiful craftmanship and the art of ballet, let me encourage you: dive deep into this world. And on the next Tutu Tuesday, find the courage to experiment with a touch of whimsy and embrace the magic that only a beautiful Tutu can bring. I can't wait to explore more of the beautiful ballet in France as I continue to discover the charm and elegance that flows through the cities and villages of Normandy. I promise to keep you updated. #TutuTuesday You've Gotta See These: - Ballet de Normandie: http://www.balletdenormandie.fr/en/. The company offers various performances that’ll enchant and awe you. - L'Atelier de la Danse: A gem hidden within the enchanting streets of Octeville. This place is a heaven for any dancer! They make some beautiful tutus and shoes, and they’ll treat you like family. You can get in touch via their website: www.latelierdeladanse.com. - Normandy Ballet Museum: You simply must go here! You can’t visit Octeville and not step inside this place! The museum features some exquisite costumes and historic pieces of art that represent the captivating ballet heritage of Normandy. They’ve even got some fascinating pieces related to the Normandy Ballet Company. You can check it out on www.normandyballetmuseum.com. Remember to join me on this ballet adventure! Share your own Tutu Tuesday with the world with #TutuTuesday !