Wattignies, Hauts-de-France: Tutu Tuesday in the City of Lights (and Love for Tutus)
G'day, darlings! It's your gal, Chloe, back with another sartorial adventure, and this time, we're taking Tutu Tuesday to the charming town of Wattignies in the Hauts-de-France region of France. Yep, that's right! I'm swapping my usual Sydney harbourside vistas for the picturesque charm of French provincial living, and let me tell ya, the tutus are just as stunning here.
I've always had a thing for tutus – who doesn't, right? They're like the ultimate symbol of grace, elegance, and just a touch of whimsy. But this trip, I'm on the hunt for some real statement-making pieces. And Wattignies, you beautiful little town, has been serving up the goods. I've already found myself completely captivated by the local ballet school's collection. Those gals have got some seriously impressive tutus, from the classic romantic tutu with its layers of tulle, perfect for Swan Lake, to the sleek, modern tutus with sharp, geometric lines, designed for more contemporary ballets.
It's not just the ballet school though – the entire town seems to have a special affection for the tutu! Think vintage boutiques bursting with sequined and feathered numbers that could have graced the stage in a 1950s Parisian theatre. Then there are the independent designers, crafting innovative tutus using fabric combinations that are out of this world – think shimmering silks and softest chiffons paired with the boldest pops of colour. I'm talking bright emerald greens, cerulean blues, even a couple of fuchsia pink tutus that nearly stopped me in my tracks. And the details? My word! Delicate beadwork, sparkling rhinestones, and handmade flowers crafted with the kind of detail you can't help but admire.
You see, tutus are about more than just ballet here. They're an integral part of the cultural landscape, a way of life that's imbued with history and creativity. Even the local baker is making "tutu cakes", miniature masterpieces adorned with edible flower decorations that look good enough to eat (although I wouldn't want to ruin such a beautiful thing!). And as for the café's in town, let me tell you – their coffee art? Pure tutu perfection. Every swirl and foam bloom evokes the elegance and artistry of a classic ballerina in her final pose.
Now, let's talk specifics. The tutus here in Wattignies can be broadly categorized into three styles:
- The Romantic Tutu – this one's a timeless classic. Think layers upon layers of delicate tulle, often paired with a corset bodice. This is your Swan Lake tutu, your Giselle tutu, the epitome of femininity and grace.
- The Modern Tutu – think less fluff, more attitude. These tutus are sculpted from innovative fabrics – neoprene, silks, or even leather – and often feature bold lines, daring cuts, and unexpected textures. Think less Giselle and more Misty Copeland. This tutu is about empowerment and breaking the mold.
- The Experimental Tutu – the boundaries here are pushed to the absolute limit. Think asymmetrical designs, mixed media, and daring fabric combinations. These tutus are truly one of a kind, for the bold and the experimental.
And my favorite part? The people of Wattignies, They embrace the tutu with such joie de vivre, such a playful sense of self-expression, that it's impossible not to feel a bit of the magic too. They don’t shy away from their love of dance, they embrace it. It's the ballet dancers at the local café who, in the middle of the afternoon, decide to spontaneously bust out a pirouette on the café patio. It’s the little girl walking home from school with her fluffy pink tutu on under a black wool coat. It’s the grandmother buying herself a hand-beaded tutu for no reason other than the fact that she feels fabulous.
I mean, don’t even get me started on the French men, guys. Let me tell ya, they have got such a thing for women in tutus. Every man on the street stops in their tracks to appreciate the delicate fabric. Some might even blush as they pass you. My friends, if you are a tutu enthusiast looking for an enchanting escape, come on over to Wattignies. Just be prepared, it might be the beginning of a love affair.
And don’t forget to tag your Tutu Tuesday pictures on Instagram with #tututuesday and #wattignies. It’s a global movement to celebrate all things tutus. I am definitely coming back to Wattignies for more tutu inspiration!