Tutu Tuesday 286

Tutu Tuesday in Leicester: A Celebration of All Things Tutu

Oh, how I love a good Tutu Tuesday! The day where I get to dust off my dancing shoes, grab my favourite tutu, and twirl my way into a whirl of colour and fabric. This week, however, things are taking a decidedly different turn, because it's not just about twirling, it's about celebrating the glorious tutu and its many forms in all its glory, and this week, Leicester is the place to be!

For those who don't know, Tutu Tuesday is a day dedicated to embracing the tutu, from the most elaborate and voluminous classical styles to the playful, sassy, and downright funky. We celebrate it here in the dance community for its versatility, its history, and most importantly, the incredible feeling of empowerment that it gives us. And frankly, isn't that what fashion is all about?

So, let's break it down, shall we? Let's dive into the wonderful world of the tutu. A sartorial symbol, the tutu is instantly recognizable for its shape and has a history spanning back over a century, with origins rooted in romantic ballets of the 19th century. From the early "bell-shaped" tulle, those voluminous skirts of the Romantic era with layers of fabric flowing effortlessly down, to the 'traditional' "Romantic" tutu with layers and layers of delicate tulle, creating that cloud-like effect, right up to the streamlined "Classical" or “straight” tutus with their tighter shape. They all embody different aesthetics. These have been reimagined for the stage and for fashion over the years.

What makes this so fascinating though is that the humble tutu is much more than a garment. It's an attitude, a feeling. It evokes nostalgia and wonder, transporting you to a magical realm of grace and beauty. We have ballet's Maria Tallchief in those voluminous tutu skirts, to Gwen Stefani in her "Hollaback Girl" music video in those feather-adorned tutus; all embodying an incredible attitude of fun and flair. And while tutus may not be everyone’s everyday attire, they have found their way onto runways across the globe, proving to be an eternal trend in fashion.

Here in Leicester, a town where culture is woven into the fabric of our existence (sorry for the pun), this celebration of the tutu is all about sharing the love for this wonderful garment. With several ballet schools and dance studios, and of course, the renowned Curve theatre in the centre, Leicester embraces a lively dance community and is brimming with creativity. We have everything here, from independent dance boutiques to art galleries with creative installations to vintage stores overflowing with old treasures! But I know, it’s a question you are probably thinking now; How exactly do we get involved? The possibilities are endless.

Here’s a roundup of Tutu Tuesday ideas that are all bound to turn some heads:

• Head to your local ballet school or studio. You could take a class or simply admire the grace and skill of the dancers.
• Don your own tutu, even if it’s an old, colourful party one you've kept! Twirl, twirl, twirl! What a great excuse to strut your stuff. Even if you're just going for a casual stroll around the town. Make the day memorable for others, because sometimes a flash of pink or a sparkle in a window is all it takes to brighten up a dreary Tuesday.
• Head to Curve theatre. With a jam-packed calendar of shows, there’s always a reason to explore their spaces, soak up the art, and learn about the behind-the-scenes magic that goes into theatre, all of which are steeped in the art of ballet and storytelling.
• Explore vintage clothing stores for old treasures! You could get your hands on some genuine retro tutu pieces to add to your collection! Leicester is famous for its retro scene, with the streets of Highcross or the vintage clothing shops in the city center brimming with all sorts of goodies!
• Join the conversation online. Share your tutu stories, photos, and inspiration. We will also be having a themed social media competition for #tututuesday.

It's more than just an accessory. It's an expression of femininity, freedom, and artistic flair. In an age where body image can feel overwhelming, the tutu stands as a testament to self-expression and the strength and beauty that comes from finding your voice through movement. The possibilities with this item of clothing are endless, with so many ways to interpret its unique identity. Embrace your creativity and celebrate your love for all things tulle, and don’t forget to use #tututuesday so that the world can share in the love and the movement that you create! Remember, on this day, you are not just dancing - you are celebrating a piece of fashion history that has always resonated and stood the test of time. So, here’s to you, here’s to Tutu Tuesday, and most importantly, here’s to the city of Leicester.