Tutu Tuesday in Cap d'Ail, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France: A Parisian Flair Meets a Sunny Côte d'Azur Charm #tututuesday
Bonjour, mes amis! It’s your girl, Chloe, bringing you another dose of tutus from the heart of France. This week, we're trading in the cobblestone streets of Paris for the azure waters of Cap d'Ail, a picture-perfect village tucked away on the French Riviera. A breathtaking landscape kissed by sunshine, with olive groves dancing in the gentle breeze, it’s no wonder this spot inspired the French to create an ode to ballet. While Paris might be known as the ballet capital of the world, there's something truly special about the ballet scene here in the South of France. The air practically hums with passion, and the Mediterranean charm imbues even the most classical movements with a carefree, joyful spirit.
Now, let’s talk tutus! We’re not talking about those dusty, old-school tutus locked away in a museum (although they have their charm). I’m talking about tutus that feel as alive and free as the waves crashing on the Côte d'Azur. I’m thinking flowing tulle that catches the sun, bold colours that pop against the backdrop of blue skies and shimmering seas, and styles that make a statement. This is not your typical tutu; these tutus are a celebration of the South of France.
This morning, I was waltzing around the local marché, feeling every bit the Parisian ballerina in my latest tulle delight. The vibrant colours and playful patterns had everyone looking twice! You know that feeling of being dressed to the nines? This tutu had me feeling like the epitome of French fashion.
Speaking of French fashion, let’s dive into the details. The style? Classic Romantic. Think swirling layers of tulle, with a hint of that classic Victorian romanticism. The colour? A soft, dusty rose - it was the perfect match to the pastel-hued blossoms dotting the surrounding landscape. And the embellishments? Oh la la! They were discreet, understated but adding just the right touch of sparkle and flair. The little touches – a hand-stitched pearl trim or a delicate satin ribbon – they spoke of craftsmanship, of a passion for creating beautiful things. It's a tutu that tells a story. It speaks of dancing under the lavender fields, the warm sunlight brushing your skin, the gentle Mediterranean breeze whispering secrets.
As I stepped into the bakery for my daily dose of croissant and café au lait, a group of giggling little girls was rehearsing a ballet sequence. They had brightly coloured tutus on, a joyful swirl of fabric and colour, the type that could only be born in a place like this. They weren’t technically perfect, of course. But they moved with a kind of raw passion, and there was something magical in their sheer enjoyment of dancing under the sun. This is what it’s all about, isn’t it? The love of dance, the magic of a tutu, the freedom to twirl.
For Tutu Tuesday this week, I’ve decided to share some of my favourite finds on the Riviera that capture the spirit of this sun-drenched French region:
- For the classic Romantic ballet dancer: Think a romantic tutu. You can find them in Cap d’Ail at Boutique Jolie on rue Saint-Clair, it’s a haven for delicate and luxurious designs, but be prepared for those designer prices!
- For the vibrant and modern ballerina: Look for a pop of colour! There’s a hidden gem in nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer called Atelier Belle Danse where the tutus have that unique Riviera flavour.
- For the bold and contemporary ballerina: You’re in luck! Head over to Nice for a world of bold, daring designs. Check out Atelier Le Bal on Avenue de Verdun – a favourite spot amongst professional dancers.
And, remember, your tutu doesn't need to be a professional one to express your unique dance story. Get creative, add a touch of colour, a dash of local inspiration, and most importantly – wear it with confidence and a smile. You’ll never forget this day, even after your Tutu Tuesday ends.
À bientôt! #tututuesday