Tutu Tuesday 18401

Dinan Bretagne, France: Tutu Tuesday, Vive la Danse!
Bonjour from the charming cobblestone streets of Dinan, Bretagne, France! Today is a special day – Tutu Tuesday! Now, I know what you’re thinking: "A ballerina in Brittany? What’s the connection?". Well, allow me to explain, dear readers. While ballet may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you picture the picturesque Brittany countryside, it's definitely alive and well here. And today, I'm about to show you just why! #tututuesday Firstly, I’d better address the elephant in the room. It's true, French women do embrace a different kind of "style". Think Parisian chic – effortlessly stylish and elegant, more about chic layering, minimal makeup, and statement pieces than the structured femininity we Aussies often favour. However, when it comes to the art of dance, their appreciation is simply magnifique. You see, in France, the art of ballet, with all its swirling tutus and gravity-defying moves, has always been cherished, like a treasured heirloom, passed down through generations. They appreciate the classical traditions – the exquisite precision, the ethereal beauty, the sheer athleticism of it all. And when it comes to Tutu Tuesday, it’s about celebrating those very traditions. You see, Tutu Tuesday is not about some elaborate, Instagram-worthy, perfectly poised "poser". It’s more about honouring the heritage of ballet in all its glory. So, let me introduce you to my take on "French Tutu Tuesday", inspired by the cobblestone charm and fairytale ambiance of Dinan! • Firstly, the tutu: It's all about the “Romantic” tutu – you know, those frothy, dreamy, slightly more demure numbers. I've opted for a soft tulle design with subtle, delicate embroidery - think “Marie Antoinette goes ballerina" and you'll be in the right headspace. • Adding the French flair: Think elegant layering. This little number will be layered over a vintage-inspired, slightly-fitted midi-length skirt with a classic, subtle floral print, almost like a modern take on a 1940s era “flapper girl" vibe. • Keeping it simple with the shoes: Because a dancer can't go overboard! And I mean, have you seen the cobbles here? This means elegant yet practical! Ballerinas will always be the iconic ballerina's staple shoe. But I’m adding a slightly elevated wedge-heel ballerina in classic, timeless white – simple but stylish and adding just a hint of French charm. • The ultimate accessor: My trusty "baguette", naturally! It’s no longer about your average crossbody bag. In this quaint setting, an elegant baguette, crafted in genuine leather, slung across my shoulder, will add an understated sophistication to my look. And it's roomy enough to hold all my essential ballet necessities like my travel ballet shoes, pointe shoes and my trusty elastic band. • And the hair? Think of those whimsical romantic buns that would suit even Marie Antoinette. It's all about creating that soft, flowing shape while showcasing that French feminine, airy beauty. Now, onto the other side of my "French Tutu Tuesday" – finding my own little Parisian pointe-shoe inspired ballet sanctuary. Dinan is home to an incredibly inspiring dance school. Let’s just say this place takes its classical ballet traditions seriously. Every dancer, from a wee babe starting out in their first dance class to a seasoned professional, exhibits that pure passion, dedication, and precision so common in France. It’s the “je ne sais quoi" (you know, that something special, hard to define, but absolutely noticeable!) that really comes alive here. It's inspiring. My heart just soared when I watched these dedicated dancers grace the studio. I was able to observe some amazing classical technique; such intricate, flowing lines. I just wanted to join in! I couldn’t leave without sampling the ballet life, could I? With the French tutu-wear of course! I couldn't resist a "private session" at the Dinan Dance School. Now, you wouldn’t catch me performing professionally. I'm just your average ballerina-at-heart Aussie with a flair for all things fun. However, let’s just say I was born with those trusty ballet genes – you know, the natural inclination for turning en pointe, landing that perfect “attitude" turn – all those classic ballet essentials. I took the “tutu” seriously during my session; stretching my muscles and practicing those beautiful "Arabesques", which feel perfectly elegant on this French soil! And yes, there was the quintessential grand finale, the one thing that always brings a tear to my eye (ok, I'll confess, I let out a small little "whoop" too): a sweeping grand jeté, soaring across the stage, landing with the precision of a true ballerina, tutu flowing, followed by a deep reverance! And as always, in the studio world, there was a quiet joy, a sense of accomplishment! Today's Tutu Tuesday wasn't just about fashion – it was about celebrating the dedication and art of dance. The “French flair" adds that extra touch of charm and elegance to the celebration. I'm not going to pretend that French Tutu Tuesday was all glamour. There were those awkward “ballet face” moments – you know, the face you pull when you're concentrating so hard you could potentially get stuck with that same expression – but who doesn't love a good, playful "ballet face”?! (Trust me, there were lots of giggles). And yes, my legs screamed in protest after a demanding plie session, and that "swooning" (what can I say, some of us are dramatic when we stretch) brought on the giggles too, but, what a magical, memorable day it was, dancing in my little tutu sanctuary, embracing the grace and joy of ballet with a French flair! So, if you're planning a visit to the heart of Brittany, remember Tutu Tuesday – your chance to embrace the beautiful tradition of French ballet. Whether you're a ballet enthusiast or simply admire the artistry, don't forget to embrace the essence of Tutu Tuesday – those fleeting moments of pure grace and effortless beauty! #tututuesday #DinanBretagne #ViveLaDanse