Tutu Tuesday 223

Tutu Tuesday in Deal Ah, Deal. My favourite seaside town in Kent! And what better place to embrace Tutu Tuesday, than amongst the bracing sea air and delightful seafront. With the recent launch of the Deal Theatre Company's revival of "Swan Lake" there's been an obvious tutu-related buzz in the air - the theatrical kind, that is, not the kind emanating from a ballet studio during warm-up. Of course, a #tututuesday look needs some consideration as to style, so here's a quick look at the different types of tutu and where best to wear them (because you need a different tutu for the seaside and a different tutu for the studio). * The Romantic tutu is the epitome of ballet style. Featuring tiers of tulle layered on top of a fitted bodice, it was introduced to ballet in the 1830s with a specific desire to express the romance of "Giselle". A true fairytale tutu, Romantic tutus are best for a grand, dramatic look at the theatre, at an art gallery, or for a glamorous black tie event. * The Classical tutu offers a shorter skirt (compared to the romantic), with a less voluminous layer of tulle and a streamlined shape. More practical than a romantic tutu, the classical tutu is best worn for those situations where you'll need some movement, a classic dance class for example, a romantic walk around the park, or to pick up some fresh bread and artisanal cheeses in a seaside village like Deal! * The Neoclassical tutu came about in the early 20th century. Lighter, more dynamic and flexible, this style has only one layer of tulle and is perfect for performances requiring greater range of movement (like contemporary ballet). Neoclassical tutus are best for dancing at the Deal Festival or strolling to the Deal Pier for a cup of coffee and a look at the iconic red lighthouse. So, how do I style the Deal #tututuesday look? A little research is in order! It all started for me with my "favourite things" from my "Deal Day Out" wardrobe, things like: * A chunky cardigan * A vintage wool scarf * A favourite pair of comfortable trainers And then I hit my vintage tutu box. There are so many tutu designs to choose from - from black tutu tulle with red ribbon trim to cream tutu with silver sequins, and each needs a slightly different style approach: * **Red ribbon trim on black tulle** paired with black leggings and trainers and a grey knitted cardigan for an on-trend "Dark Academia" vibe that nods towards classic ballet with a modern, understated edge. * **Cream tutu with silver sequins** teamed with an oversized black tee, some sparkly ballet shoes and a comfy black wool jacket for a fabulous “boho meets ballerina” vibe (an elegant but edgy way to rock your #tututuesday). * Light blue and purple tulle paired with black leggings and a black shirt tied into a knot and chunky trainers - I know it sounds bonkers, but a blue and purple tulle tutu looks incredible with a modern twist - especially when accessorized with a purple bucket bag, an amazing chain belt, a couple of quirky necklaces and bold purple eye makeup. Remember, when choosing a tutu for Deal, always consider practicality, weather conditions, your activity level and the environment you'll be in! It’s Deal’s amazing local history that keeps me coming back for more and more Tutu Tuesdays. For one thing, a recent renovation has unearthed medieval foundations, while Deal Castle has also revealed a Tudor and 17th century story through some incredible digs, so the history is ripe for an exploration, #tututuesday, and the wearing of my tutu, which might be deemed an extravagant modern style! Oh Deal, I do love you! From the traditional Victorian houses on the beachfront to the iconic pier, the lively pubs, and the charming seaside cafes, your quirky charm just makes you one of the most loveable seaside towns in Kent, for #tututuesday and any other day! #Deal