## **Tutu Tuesday in Montesson, Île-de-France: A Parisian Tutu Odyssey #tututuesday** Okay, so I know what you're thinking. An Aussie ballerina in Paris? Who would have thunk it? But let me tell you, this Parisian adventure has been a real dream come true. It's a whole new world of ballet, fashion, and let's not forget, amazing food! I've been soaking up the cultural vibes, from strolling through the charming streets to discovering hidden gems like Montesson, Île-de-France, a suburb just outside Paris with its own unique charm. But enough about the background. Today's all about *Tutu Tuesday* - a day dedicated to the graceful, twirling, and oh-so-fabulous world of ballet tutus! So, put on your dancing shoes, grab your favourite beverage (or a glass of French wine for the full experience), and let's dive into the tutu wonderland that is Montesson, Île-de-France! Firstly, the Parisian ballet scene is a whole other level. The elegance and precision of the dancers are absolutely mesmerising. It's almost like you're watching a story unfold on stage, not just a bunch of people moving around. They've got these killer tutus too. They're like a whole new breed of tutu. I'm talking intricate lace, luxurious silks, and delicate fabrics that almost seem to float on air. Not to mention the incredible colours. The ones they use for these performances are bold and vibrant. It's like stepping into a masterpiece every time! Montesson, with its historic centre, lovely gardens and friendly locals, provided the perfect backdrop for my #tututuesday exploration. Here's a little bit about my experience, in all its tutued glory: * Discovering a Little Piece of Ballerina Heaven* Imagine my joy when I stumbled upon a quaint boutique tucked away on a charming side street in Montesson. It was called 'Le Petit Tutu' and had everything a tutu enthusiast could ever desire. They had all types of tutus, from the classic, traditional tutus for those who like to keep it simple and elegant, to the more contemporary ones with a touch of modern flair. One tutu I loved had layers upon layers of silk chiffon, and it practically flowed around you. I almost couldn't tear myself away. There were also tutus adorned with exquisite beading, pearls and embroidery - pure fairytale-esque! * The Magic of Parisian Tutus* Later, I decided to visit the "Musée du Ballet", which translates to the Ballet Museum, a short train ride from Montesson. The museum was like stepping into a time capsule. It showcased the history of ballet and all its glorious costumes. There was everything from hand-drawn sketches to actual costumes worn by famous ballerinas! My mind was blown, honestly! I felt a bit like a time traveller, lost in a wonderland of tutus. I swear, one of the costumes there must have been at least a hundred years old, still beautiful even though it wasn't as grand as the tutus I saw in the boutiques! The museum really helped me understand the different eras of ballet fashion and how the tutu has evolved throughout history. * Feeling Parisian - A Touch of Elegance and Chic* My final #tututuesday adventure involved a delightful afternoon at a tea salon in Montesson. Imagine dainty sandwiches, pastries, and of course, tea! I wore a pretty, short, light pink tutu, just the thing for an afternoon of French chic. And you know what? It actually fit right in. Parisians are stylish but down to earth, so it didn't feel out of place at all! * Montesson's Secret - A Little Ballet School with Big Dreams* While I was enjoying my afternoon tea, I overheard a group of young girls chatting excitedly about their upcoming recital at their local ballet school. Curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to pop in and have a chat with the teacher. The studio was buzzing with activity. There were dancers of all ages, all totally focused and enthusiastic. The teacher, Madame Delacroix, told me about her dedication to nurturing young dancers. She’s a real champion for local ballet talent. They even do special performance programs that mix ballet and the traditional music of Île-de-France. That’s definitely something you wouldn't see down under, but I loved the fresh take! Madame Delacroix mentioned that many of her students have gone on to prestigious ballet schools, even the Paris Opera! And watching those talented youngsters twirling in their perfectly-fitted tutus, I knew they were bound to have a brilliant future in ballet! * Conclusion: The Tutu Love Never Stops!* My #tututuesday adventures in Montesson were unforgettable. The city truly embraces the magic of ballet, from its boutique shops and museums to the young, aspiring dancers taking their first steps in a new ballet world. So, next time you find yourself in the Île-de-France region, be sure to explore the charming town of Montesson, you never know what treasures you might find. And always, always remember: The beauty of a tutu lies not only in its grace and elegance but also in the passion that burns within each dancer! #tututuesday