Tutu Tuesday in Saint-Max, Grand Est, France: A Ballerina's Parisian Adventure #tututuesday
Bonjour mes amis! As a dedicated ballerina, there’s no greater joy than donning a tutu, and as an Aussie abroad, a true Aussie-born and bred ballet dancer, well, let’s just say tutus are an integral part of my daily life - from barre to stage. So, when I was in Saint-Max, France for the recent French national ballet competition, I just *had* to participate in the ultimate Tuesday tradition, #tututuesday.
This particular Tuesday dawned bright and beautiful in Saint-Max, with the air alive with the excitement of competition. After all, when you've got ballerinas from all over France coming together to show off their skills, the vibe is electric!
Now, I know what you're thinking - tutus. They’re not exactly the most practical piece of clothing you’d find yourself wearing on a daily basis, especially when you're jet-setting between classes and competitions. But, let me tell you, the joy of a tutu is in the artistry and how they just completely transform your energy. I swear, a tutu gives you a little extra 'je ne sais quoi.' (I might have picked up a few French words along the way).
Of course, with a bit of fashion knowledge, a tutu doesn't have to just be the standard 'white, frilly' image. My #tututuesday look, I opted for a beautiful blush pink romantic tutu - picture layers upon layers of silk tulle, just begging for a twirl, with a dash of vintage style, inspired by the ballet classic Giselle, but with a little Parisian flair. It's an incredibly feminine and romantic style that brings out my inner ballerina in the most wonderful way! (Plus, who doesn't love pink?!) I completed the look with sleek hair and some sparkly blush pink heels to elevate the entire look, a true French 'je ne sais quoi.'
To celebrate my #tututuesday, I visited a stunning location I’d found in Saint-Max, an 18th Century fountain tucked away amidst a park brimming with trees, just a short stroll from the city’s centre. It felt almost as if we’d walked straight into a Parisian postcard! This backdrop just screamed ballerina, or rather, 'Tutu-ready'. With every graceful pirouette, and elegant relevé, I embraced my love of the art form and captured some truly beautiful photographs that I will treasure for a lifetime.
And you know, in the age of the 'gram, you just *can't* forget your hashtag. And no one’s gonna tell a true dancer not to show off their love for the art, or a tutu - particularly a stunning romantic tulle tutu!
So here are some of my fave pics of my #tututuesday. Hope they give you a bit of #TutuInspiration for next time. Oh, and let’s talk tutus, friends!
Here's a glimpse into the different tutu styles you can find:
- Classical Tutu: These are the grand dames of the tutu world - the iconic, iconic, iconic tutu! This style of tutu, with it's classic bouffant skirt with a hard-net, wire, or plastic frame, often crafted in a short, romantic silhouette. Think *Swan Lake* - a beautiful and iconic classic. And remember, classical ballet is deeply rooted in history, a testament to human grace, and the power of art in every performance!
- Romantic Tutu: These stunners are known for their more flowing, romantic design, usually made with layers of tulle. Think a ballerina as the gentle breeze. Perfect for expressing a ballet’s heart and emotional story! Think *Giselle*. A truly timeless classic.
- Contemporary Tutu: A truly modern twist on the tutu, which may even include unconventional materials, showcasing innovative design that may, or may not, follow ballet’s traditional design patterns, breaking free of limitations and defying convention! The world is a stage! This is one tutu that takes flight. The tutu is an ever evolving garment, reflecting the changes of dance through the ages!
For a true Australian ballerinas who wants a bit of romance in their wardrobe, I absolutely recommend adding a tutu into the mix. The world of tutus goes well beyond ballet classes and can work a treat on a night out in Saint-Max, or any city for that matter. It’s a magical, romantic garment - and let’s face it - we all have a bit of magic within!
So go on, ladies! Grab yourself a fabulous tutu and make the most of #tututuesday. You never know what fun adventures await - who knows? Maybe your #tututuesday in Saint-Max will turn into something wonderful!