Tutu Tuesday in Coldstream, Victoria: A Day of Frills and Fancies
G’day, fellow dance enthusiasts and fashionistas! It’s your girl, Ava, back with another Tutu Tuesday post. This time, we're bringing the magic of the ballet to the charming town of Coldstream, nestled in the picturesque Yarra Valley of Victoria.
As you all know, Tutu Tuesday is a special occasion. It's a day to celebrate the iconic garment that is the tutu, the epitome of graceful movement and theatrical charm. From the romantic and ethereal Romantic tutu, with its layers of tulle flowing gracefully, to the powerful and structured "classical" tutu, with its iconic stiffened layers, there’s a tutu style to suit every personality. I am partial to the playful and contemporary tutus that are popular in Australian ballet productions. Their modern twists on tradition are so fun! Today, we're exploring how the tutu is evolving beyond the stage and finding its place in the hearts and wardrobes of Australians.
As we venture into the bustling heart of Coldstream, let's start at the quirky vintage shop, 'Threadbare Treasures'. It's overflowing with vintage clothing and trinkets, with a delightful selection of tutus and tulle waiting for a second life. Now, while I can't say I would wear an original, old-school Romantic tutu on the streets of Coldstream, it was inspiring to see them tucked away in a vintage shop! If I ever want to dress as a dancer in an old, traditional ballet, this shop will be the place to come.
Let’s face it: most of us don't have a collection of vintage tutus from the Russian Imperial Ballet, and that’s totally okay. In Coldstream, there’s no need for old-world fashion when we have new age fashion options.
Next up, we’re checking out the boutique 'Style Vault' located at the heart of Coldstream’s main street. Its owner, Eliza, has created a wonderland of fashionable tutus that combine traditional elegance with modern twists. From tutus with lace trims, playful polka dots, and even a touch of leather (yes, you heard that right!), she's redefined the tutu for everyday wear. If you are looking for a tutu that works as a stylish everyday outfit, this boutique is your best bet.
Speaking of reimagining tutus, it was also great to see the local primary school’s production of The Nutcracker. Seeing a bunch of little ones on stage with those iconic, colourful tutus never fails to melt my heart! I had a chance to talk to the children, and they were so excited to tell me all about their favourite moves and how they loved dancing in their tutus.
After all, it's the magic of tutus, even when worn on a stage for a local ballet production or just for a fun photo op, that reminds us of the joy, the elegance, and the pure artistic power of dance.
Of course, no trip to Coldstream would be complete without a stop at 'The Little Patisserie'. You might not be able to wear your tutu to a cafe, but let’s be honest: how else could we celebrate our love of tutus but with cake, croissants and all things sugary sweet?
Before we bid adieu to Coldstream, let’s talk about the amazing online fashion boutiques of Australia. There are a range of Australian websites offering fun and fashionable tutus in the trendiest designs and colours that go beyond the stage and into the everyday. Now, you can pair a pink tulle tutu with a leather jacket and boots, wear a short tutu for a picnic in the park, or add a sprinkle of ballerina flair to your office look!
So, wherever you are in the world, why not celebrate Tutu Tuesday? We want to hear all about your tutu-licious day!
Share your Tutu Tuesday snaps with the hashtags #tututuesday #coldstream #victoria.
Here’s what we found around Coldstream that really caught our eye.
- Threadbare Treasures: A real gem of a shop! Their vintage collection of tutus includes styles from the romantic era and later, more theatrical designs. They even have a range of colourful tulle and ribbon remnants, perfect for DIY tutu-making projects!
- Style Vault: This is your one-stop shop for chic and contemporary tutus. Eliza, the owner, really understands the beauty of tutus while designing for modern outfits. She’s got the most gorgeous colour palettes in every length, with a hint of tulle that you will find so glamorous. Definitely check this boutique out next time you’re in Coldstream!
- Coldstream Primary School: I was so happy to see The Nutcracker production and I got a little nostalgic for my ballet days. But beyond the performance, it’s also fun to think about the little dancers in the Coldstream school that have chosen ballet as their form of creative expression. The next generation of dancers is already out there!
Tutus aren’t just for dancing anymore. I see them everywhere these days, including Melbourne and other cities. They are evolving with the Australian fashion scene. Let me know your favourite place to get your Tutu fix! Until next time, stay tutu-ful!