Tutu Tuesday in Nottingham: A City Embraces the Pointe of Style #tututuesday Oh, Nottingham, you have stolen my heart. It’s not just the charming cobbled streets, the bustling market, or the legendary Robin Hood tales, although they do have their charms. It’s the embracing spirit, the openness to something different, something out of the ordinary, like Tutu Tuesday. Now, picture this: It's a Tuesday morning, a fresh autumn breeze is sweeping through the city, and instead of your usual coat and boots, there’s a vibrant pink tutu swishing around your legs. It's a tutu-tastic vision, and I'm in the midst of it. This isn't just any ordinary tutu though. This is a Tutu Tuesday in Nottingham, a weekly celebration of dance, self-expression, and of course, tulle. You might be thinking, "Tutus in Nottingham? But why?" Well, here’s the thing. The city's dance scene is buzzing. The Royal Ballet School has a strong presence here, there are ballet classes dotted across the city, and Nottingham’s own professional ballet company, Ballet Theatre UK, graces stages across the country. However, what sets Tutu Tuesday apart is it’s accessibility and celebration. You don’t have to be a professional ballet dancer to join in on the fun. It's a chance for everyone, from seasoned dancers to complete beginners, to express themselves. It's about embracing your inner dancer, the whimsical joy of spinning in tulle, and shaking off the daily grind. I’ve witnessed tutu styles that have blown my mind. There’s the classic romantic, with layers of flowing, pastel tulle, and the playful, where it’s all about bold colours, quirky embellishments, and even a tutu fashioned out of recycled fabric! Tutu Tuesday is a powerful reminder that fashion is for everyone, regardless of shape, size, or age. It's about finding your own unique expression, celebrating creativity, and not taking yourself too seriously. So, here are my tips for conquering Tutu Tuesday: - Choose a Tutu That Suits Your Style: Whether you love classic elegance, prefer a quirky and colourful approach, or are drawn to something more edgy, there’s a tutu waiting to be discovered. Explore local fabric shops or search online for some inspirational finds. - Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Tutu Tuesday is all about fun and creative expression. Try a statement piece like a sparkling headpiece, vibrant eyeshadow, or some bold accessories. - Embrace the Attitude: Forget about fitting in; it's time to stand out! A confident swagger in your tutu can be incredibly empowering and it'll set you apart from the crowd. What is it about the city that makes this phenomenon work so well? The infectious spirit of Nottingham. The people of this city seem to be naturally open to embracing new ideas, a quality that lends itself to Tutu Tuesday. The day has taken on a life of its own with people from all walks of life embracing the tutu and the sense of joy and laughter it evokes. I’ve even seen fathers donning tutu-skirts while pushing their prams - it's a heart-warming sight, I assure you. From market stalls showcasing unique tutu designs to city buses sporting Tutu Tuesday logos, this light-hearted movement is changing the way the city expresses itself. The city's open-air theatres are abuzz with Tutu Tuesdays events – flash mobs with vibrant tutus are performed and impromptu tutu dance-offs happen on busy cobbled streets. It's like a playful, swirling dance that's impossible to ignore. It's a day for sharing laughs, spreading smiles, and celebrating the beauty of movement and individual expression. But there is another layer to this Tutu Tuesday story – a poignant story about community and belonging. In a world that often emphasizes differences and divides, Tutu Tuesday offers a powerful counterpoint. This shared experience, this common thread that binds the community in laughter, dance, and tulle, builds bridges, fosters connections and creates a sense of shared joy. Tutu Tuesday isn't just about wearing a tutu; it's about becoming part of a movement. It's about breaking out of your comfort zone, finding common ground with others, and celebrating the shared love for something unique, fun, and beautifully silly. So, Nottingham, keep on twirling. This city, with its playful heart and acceptance, will continue to surprise and inspire, one Tutu Tuesday at a time. And I’ll be there, tutus in hand, celebrating with every graceful step, every playful swirl, and every spontaneous pirouette. You too can join the movement, unleash your inner ballerina, and be part of Nottingham’s vibrant spirit. I implore you: Find your tutu, wear it with pride, and don’t be afraid to twirl! #tututuesday