Norwich, UK: Tutu Tuesday 🩰
As a ballet dancer, you could say I have a bit of an affinity for tutus. Yes, I wear them most days (or at least the equivalent), but there's something truly magical about the full-skirted, airy tulle dreams we call tutus that never gets old. I don't even care if people call them cheesy! 😉
Now, imagine a whole day dedicated to this ballet essential, a day to wear our tutu proudly, embrace our inner ballerinas, and perhaps even get a few laughs out of those who are yet to be "tutufied" (and I'm definitely not just talking about myself). That, my fellow tutophiles, is what "Tutu Tuesday" is all about, and believe me, it's taken over the internet in the most wonderful, tulle-filled way.
As a dedicated #tututuesday participant, every Tuesday I try to create some fun looks, whether that's dressing in a traditional tutu or rocking a more casual tulle piece. Let's face it, with a variety of tutu styles available – from the romantic classical tutu (with its layered tiers of tulle) to the modernistic "tutu de point" (often featuring shorter, more structured forms of tulle), and even the "tutu overskirt" – you'll find something that resonates with you, and frankly, with every other person's outfit choice that day. This day is as much about celebrating individuality and personal style as it is about the classic garment itself.
This Tuesday was a particularly great one, and you guessed it - I wore my tutu! Norwich was particularly abuzz, as the whole town seemed to have joined in the tulle fun. It really added something extra to the already bustling energy of the city. Walking down the cobblestone streets, past the vibrant, independent shops in Norwich Market (a local's treasure trove), you felt a playful vibrancy that’s hard to put your finger on - it was almost as if every store window was saying: "Come on in, and let your inner tutu-wearing queen out! It's Tutu Tuesday!" The vibe felt similar to how you imagine New York Fashion Week on the streets of Soho, with just a touch of cheeky Britishness added in.
Here's how Tutu Tuesday unfolded in Norwich (and yes, this is my story of a typical, but awesome, day, just so you know):
- The Cafe with a View: ☕️ The day began at The Assembly House – the historical gem nestled in Norwich’s city centre. What's a better place to kick off the day with your ballet bestie than over tea and scones at this Georgian house? The grandeur of the surroundings lent itself perfectly to my full-length tutu, its soft pink tulle a playful counterpoint to the gilded mirrors and high ceilings. My friend, Kate, had a tutu-tastic time with the tulle "over-skirt" (an ingenious invention – she had on her own floral maxi dress under it).
- A City Centre "Tutufy" Moment: 🤸🏼♀️ We then made our way through the heart of Norwich, popping into some quirky independent shops along the way, making for a wonderful "street style" scene. This was where we found our #tututuesday kindred spirits. A young woman in a classic black tulle tutu, the shorter kind, with knee-high boots, had a fantastic smile that radiated from underneath the tulle brim of her "floppy" black hat. Another chap we saw in the bustling Norwich Market was sporting a light blue tulle mini skirt under a grey tweed blazer – a playful take on masculinity that really stood out.
- Street Performers and the City Park: 🎶 As the sun peeked out in the afternoon, we decided to indulge our musical side in Norwich City Park. This part of the day just confirmed to us: Tutu Tuesdays are not confined to clothing. As we entered the park, we found local musicians in full performance mode. A group of folk musicians were creating their music while adorned with "tutu scarves." You could just tell, there was something about Tutu Tuesdays that makes us a little more bold – an invisible (tulle) veil has been lifted and we all have permission to unleash our "inner artsy self."
- Dinner, and Dance: 🌃 Later that evening, we joined a couple of other ballet dancer friends (the best bunch you can ask for!) for a fun, elegant dinner at The Ribs of Beef (yes, this is how locals call it – a very lovely, slightly more formal place that is right near the Cathedral.) It’s like, imagine, dancing on point all day (you know what I mean!) then stepping out for that fancy, but also playful, dinner that feels "on pointe," and your attire, naturally, has got to be right up there too.
One thing about #tututuesday - it's a movement. A celebration of how one small item – the tutu – can remind us of creativity, artistry, and most importantly, to enjoy life, a little lighter than usual. And with so many tutu variations and possibilities to explore, the possibilities are limitless. In fact, it has inspired so many other cities in the UK to adopt this quirky tradition. It goes without saying that for me, there's no better way to experience Norwich's vibrant, historic streets – and for this girl, you can't go wrong on #tututuesday! 💃