Fontaines-sur-Saône, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: Tutu Tuesday in the City of Love #tututuesday

G'day from the City of Love! Or at least, the City of Love's more understated neighbour. This week I'm venturing off the beaten track in the Loire Valley for a bit of a Tutu Tuesday escapade, which is no easy feat in Fontaines-sur-Saône! While this charming French town is brimming with old-world charm, its dance scene, unfortunately, ain't exactly as exciting as its famous neighbour. But that just makes our Tutu Tuesday a bit more special, don't you think? It's about embracing the dance in any environment, even if it means hitting up a random cafe for a bit of tutu-themed photo action. 🩰

You know how some dancers, when they find themselves away from a studio or a formal performance setting, lose a bit of their sparkle? Like a glitter-less fairy with a wardrobe malfunction! But that’s never going to happen to us, right? This #tututuesday we're embracing the everyday moments - the French pastry shops with their tantalising treats, the cute cobblestone lanes and even the local watering hole - because truly, these spots are the perfect backdrops for our twirls and leaps! 🇫🇷✨

Today, my go-to tutu is the ever-classic **romantic tutu**. You know the one with the multi-layered tulle and the delicate, almost ethereal feel? So, as you can see, I've styled it with a casual but chic, effortlessly chic, kinda look. Think fitted white T-shirt, my trusty boyfriend jeans (rolled up at the ankles for that Parisian je ne sais quoi), and my favourite beige fedora (because, gotta protect those face from the Parisian sun). And to add that finishing touch? A pair of chic ballet flats (think a hint of silver shimmer!) and a leather satchel, because every fashionable ballerina needs a bit of Parisian functionality, you know! 😉

Now, speaking of French functionality - because there’s more to France than ballet shoes, right? - the locals have some serious fashion game! There’s a subtle, stylish way to dress that, to be honest, I haven't quite mastered, but definitely admire! They've got this effortless chic down to a tee, even if they do struggle to embrace the ballerina's embrace of the tulle explosion that is Tutu Tuesday! They tend to lean more towards minimalist looks with a focus on classic cuts, luxurious textures, and understated elegance. They’ve even given their traditional peasant dresses a modern touch. And when it comes to tutus? Well, let’s just say I’m breaking a lot of French style conventions today!

You've probably noticed the gorgeous countryside around here, and with those quaint little French houses, every scene in Fontaines-sur-Saône is a postcard waiting to happen. Honestly, you couldn’t ask for better inspiration to pull off your Tutu Tuesday. Maybe we can encourage the French to embrace the Tutu Tuesday spirit, but for now, we’re going to enjoy this magical day. 😉🇫🇷

A little dose of local colour 🎨:

  • You know, I love a little French cultural insight! Today's local attraction was a charming little museum dedicated to traditional French pottery! Imagine the most stunning ceramic pieces. They really are a testament to French craftsmanship! And believe it or not, it really gets your creative juices flowing for the tutu and style inspiration - what do you think? They’d probably even be impressed by the ballet-themed mugs I have in my collection.
  • Did you know the Loire Valley region is world-renowned for its wines? It’s pretty hard to resist popping into one of those cute wine shops for a tasting. It’s just so French, don’t you think? It’s the ultimate treat! And to make it even more exciting? The proprietors (owners) even wear these incredible, stylishly sophisticated clothing and have a charm and passion that really make you feel right at home, right?!
  • But even a ballerina’s got to eat! We’re indulging in some traditional French pastries! These delicious, melt-in-your-mouth croissants! You know that feeling you get? Every bite is a perfect combination of sweetness and texture, and it's a true delight, no doubt!

I have to admit that I've found some inspiration even in the unexpected places like the local library and the market. Maybe I can even persuade them to create a dedicated tutu corner? Maybe in the ballet section? Well, a girl can dream! And that’s the beauty of Tutu Tuesday, it inspires you to see things differently and create new opportunities, like finding a tutuing home in Fontaines-sur-Saône. 😉

As the day winds down and I’m savouring one more French delicacy, let’s talk about what made this #tututuesday special, right? Let me know your thoughts. Have you embraced any interesting local inspirations on your #tututuesday adventures?