Tutu Tuesday in LāArbresle, Auvergne-RhĆ“ne-Alpes, France: #tututuesday
G'day from L'Arbresle, France! It's Tutu Tuesday, and as you know, this gal can't resist a good twirl, especially when there's such beautiful scenery surrounding me. The charming little town of L'Arbresle sits nestled in the foothills of the RhƓne-Alpes region, and is just the most gorgeous spot to feel inspired.
I'm absolutely smitten with this little French town! Not only does it boast beautiful historical architecture, like the Chateau de L'Arbresle (built in the 11th century ā just imagine those costumes!), but the countryside is simply stunning. I was strolling along the banks of the Azergues River earlier, feeling the cool breeze in my hair as I tried out some graceful poses. (Yep, I was totally nailing that arabesque while admiring the river's shimmering reflection! It's all about embracing the moment, you know!) I even stumbled upon a little garden tucked away, overflowing with blooms in every colour imaginable - it was just begging for a photo op, so of course, I obliged!
I had to try out a few of my tutu options, and I have to say, I think theyāre totally perfect for the ambience here. Today, I went for my classic, romantic pale pink tutu, paired with a simple white t-shirt for a casual chic look. L'Arbresle really is the perfect setting to tap into the elegant ballet aesthetic ā especially the little details that make a world of difference. Did I mention how much I love all the cobblestone streets? Every step feels like a pliĆ©, it's divine!
This whole area is actually quite renowned for ballet, too, you know. The Lyon Opera Ballet is only a hop, skip and jump away from L'Arbresle. There's definitely something to be said about the impact that these dancers have, inspiring and captivating audiences around the world ā and I'm just another fan soaking up the incredible heritage. And hey, who doesn't love watching professional ballerinas effortlessly execute pirouettes and fouettĆ© turns in elaborate tutus?
My Tutu Tuesday adventures today also brought me to the MusĆ©e d'Art et d'ArchĆ©ologie. Talk about a stunning setting! This place really transports you through time, filled with all kinds of relics and art from centuries past. It sparked such inspiration in me - imagine the dances they would have performed during that period! I just canāt get enough of the history surrounding dance.
I just have to share a little something I learnt while soaking up all that rich history here. Back in the day, the styles of ballet tutus would have been quite different! Remember the pouter pigeons? (Iām laughing!) Well, those elaborate tutus of the 19th century, like those made popular by Marie Taglioni, had all sorts of extravagant panniers and crinolines for dramatic effect! And the bodices? Letās just say they were quite corseted!
Thankfully, today we can enjoy more streamlined styles. I especially love the classic āRomantic tutu.ā You know the one with the layers of tulle flowing and swirling in the most graceful way? It embodies a softness and femininity that really speaks to my heart. Of course, it needs the perfect twirl-able environment ā and L'Arbresle is just that! It's so easy to imagine the graceful elegance of the āRomantic tutuā set against the rolling hills of the French countryside. Or dancing amidst the wildflowers! You have to picture it, guys - just imagine a balletic dream!
Talking about twirlsā¦I had to try some different poses around the market square here. You guys just wouldnāt believe the number of curious stares I got! And itās fair to say that the local folk seem quite enthralled by the spectacle ā at least, I think I could read that in their smiles as they walked past. They clearly embrace their Parisian charm, and they know a little touch of dance magic can elevate everyday life.
And let me tell you, thereās nothing more French than a day spent wandering the streets, checking out the markets, and enjoying a little cafe-style pastry and coffee. It's pretty much a must-do here. Today, I discovered this little bakery that makes the most divine almond croissants - they're melt-in-your-mouth delicious, perfect for fuel before another pirouette or two around L'Arbresle! It's no wonder the locals here look so vibrant. They take their food and pleasure in life seriously!
One thing Iām loving is all the pastel-hued buildings here - so cute and dainty. The colours are all about soft shades of lavender, apricot, and that iconic French sky blue! The hues blend so beautifully with my ballet tutus too! They really make this charming town feel extra whimsical, itās just too dreamy!
You know, even if Iām far from the glittering world of Parisian ballets, L'Arbresle brings its own little dose of elegance to Tutu Tuesday. So, you all just get out there and embrace your inner ballerina. Take a twirl or two, try some new moves ā I promise it will spark a whole new kind of joy and appreciation for life. It's all about finding that playful spirit in our everyday routine. See, dance can really transform your perception and bring the magic into life ā even for a gal on a Tutu Tuesday adventure! Catch you guys on the next blog!
Hereās what else I learnt today:
- Local dance classes are quite the rage! From hip-hop to classical ballet, itās awesome to see so much community involvement in dance. Even I may have to consider a couple of classes, if I wasnāt quite so busy exploring. Iām thinking tap or jazz might be next!
- āDance on,ā as they say here! It seems to be the common French phrase ā literally āDanser surā, they encourage their dancers to perform! But on Tutu Tuesday, I took it literally - I am absolutely loving all the different textures and materials in these French cities, even cobblestones! It's actually the most unique little ballet studio, isn't it?
- I discovered the L'Arbresle ballet society! These lovely people host all sorts of amazing workshops. Can't wait to have a closer look next time!
In my tutu and with my camera ā Iām out to capture all the best #tututuesday adventures. Be sure to follow along! This is your daily dose of inspiration and glamour