Cobar, New South Wales - #tututuesday

G'day from Cobar, New South Wales, the heart of the outback where the sun beats down and the dust settles thick. You wouldn't expect to find a tutu-loving ballerina out here, but trust me, this chick knows how to spin a story. And what story is better than the story of Tutu Tuesday in the heart of Australia?

For those of you who haven't heard, #tututuesday is a global movement that celebrates the beauty and grace of tutus. Every Tuesday, women (and some daring blokes!) around the world strut their stuff in these whimsical garments, adding a dash of sparkle and fairy dust to the everyday grind. Here in Cobar, we're embracing this fun tradition with open arms and open tutus. Now, let's get this show on the road!

Cobar, with its wide-open spaces and red earth, is a far cry from the plush studios of the Sydney Opera House. It’s a landscape that whispers of cattle stations, dusty roads and endless skies. You wouldn't think a ballerina would find much inspiration here, but for me, Cobar’s rugged beauty inspires me in a way that ballet in the big smoke can't. It's about finding the magic in the mundane, finding that tutu-clad sparkle even in the most unexpected places. So, Cobar, let’s make Tutu Tuesday extra special, outback style.

I've gotta tell you, there's something utterly magical about donning a tutu in the middle of the Aussie bush. The way the wind whips the tulle around your legs, the sun setting behind you casting long shadows as you pirouette - it's almost cinematic! The people of Cobar, tough and resilient, embraced the tutu madness with an infectiously welcoming vibe.

It all started at the Cobar General Store. Imagine this: dusty shelves stocked with everything from drovers’ gear to Doritos, and me, perched precariously on a stool in a pale pink Romantic tutu, complete with a delicate floral appliquĂ©, and a pair of bright pink sneakers. Yes, sneakers, it's about making it work, you know? The store owners, a pair of blokes with a good sense of humour, had never seen a tutu before, but they loved the way it injected a little fun into their day. Their customers, hardened cowboys and outback belles, chuckled, took a few photos, and bought themselves a couple of choccy bars for the road.

Next up was a quick waltz down the main street, Cobar’s Main Street, you might call it, which boasts some heritage buildings and old pubs. A bunch of local school kids, sporting a smattering of tutus, skipped alongside, creating a heartwarming little parade that had a few dusty station utes slowing down for a look.

Speaking of the kids, we brought the Cobar Kindergarten into the mix, complete with a miniature rendition of "The Nutcracker." It was utter mayhem – you can’t underestimate a preschooler in a tutu. There were little dancers swishing their skirts and tumbling on the carpet, and there were parents with wide-eyed amusement, snapping photos to remember the occasion.

Let’s face it, nothing is as inspiring and uplifting as a tutu in the right moment. No matter where you are in the world. And that’s exactly what Cobar’s Tutu Tuesday taught me.

What to wear

You don’t have to be a ballerina or even know how to do a pirouette to join the Tutu Tuesday fun. As I learned in Cobar, the spirit of the occasion is more about injecting some magic and playfulness into the everyday. A few words of sartorial wisdom?

**Here's the thing:**

  • The most important thing is to have fun.
  • Whether you choose a fluffy romantic tutu or a daringly short costume tutu - there are no hard and fast rules!
  • Remember that if your outfit includes sequins or bright colours, you'll be making a statement so keep that in mind as you're choosing your tutu.

Now that we’ve nailed the vibe, here’s a cheat sheet for your Tutu Tuesday ensemble:

  • **The Romantic Tutu:** Think classic, a ballet dream. The perfect go-to for any Tutu Tuesday event. Think pastel colours like soft pink or peach, adorned with layers of fluffy tulle.
  • **The Costume Tutu:** A little shorter, bolder and designed to be stage-ready. Imagine shimmering silks and glittering embellishments – this is your opportunity to unleash your inner star.
  • **The Everyday Tutu:** Don’t let the word “everyday” fool you – you’re not sacrificing style here. Pick a short tulle skirt, a bold colour and keep it casual.

It's time to unleash the inner dancer, embrace your Tutu Tuesday, and remember – no matter what kind of tutu you wear, make sure to smile, spin, and celebrate.

And Cobar, New South Wales? You rocked this. Until next Tutu Tuesday!