Tutu Tuesday in St. Lawrence, Newfoundland and Labrador: A Dance with Fashion
Hey everyone! It's your girl, Chloe here, back with another dose of fashion and fun! This week, I'm taking you on a journey through the captivating world of tutus, and what better day to do it than on a #TutuTuesday! Today, we're exploring the vibrant streets of St. Lawrence, Newfoundland and Labrador, a place where the rugged charm meets the grace of ballet.
I must admit, tutus aren't exactly the first thing that springs to mind when you think of this rugged island province, but hold on to your toques, because things are about to get fancy!
Firstly, a quick refresher for anyone new to the Tutu Tuesday party. This is a movement (both literally and figuratively!) where dancers and fashion enthusiasts alike embrace the whimsy of the tutu. We're not just talking about classic, fairytale-esque tutus here; we're talking about the modern take on the tutu! There are tutus made for street wear, tutus for the gym, tutus for every occasion, really! You can even find them at places like vintage clothing shops here in St. Lawrence, you just have to keep your eyes peeled!
Now, about the style! The possibilities are as endless as a pirouette. Think tulle layered with sequins, bright colours, unique cuts. Even in the realm of the "classic," you can explore so many variations from the romantic tutu - long, airy, soft – to the contemporary tutu - sleek and athletic – to the romantic tutu, think flowy layers, big tulle and a romantic, elegant silhouette.
Why did I decide to head to St. Lawrence with my tutu on, you ask? It was about shaking things up! St. Lawrence, known for its fishing industry and its charming, traditional culture, seemed like the perfect canvas for this fusion of ballet and everyday fashion.
I began my adventure in the heart of town, St. Lawrence Square. I felt a little out of place at first, but people's reactions quickly warmed me up. I think my tutu brought a touch of joy to their day, maybe even a little magic, reminding them that art and style exist in all corners of life!
Imagine a backdrop of cobblestone streets and old Victorian architecture – the perfect contrast against my flowing tulle, which felt especially delightful swirling around me as I walked. This setting offered an opportunity to explore the interplay of contrasting textures and colours.
My little fashion adventure soon caught the attention of local folks. There was, Mrs. Jones, owner of the local fish and chips shop, a lady known for her legendary cooking and for keeping it real. She had this “don’t mind me, I’m just keeping it real!” attitude and yet, she had the most wonderful reaction! “Oh honey, you’re just fabulous! You put a little sunshine in my day!"
I later met a group of youngsters who'd just finished hockey practice at the local arena. They looked at me with eyes wide, and then burst into laughter, giggling “Look at that fancy gal!” We started talking about ballet. I told them about some of the ballerinas I grew up watching and some of the ones making waves in the ballet world, right here in Canada, people like Heather Hamilton and Vanessa Zarrabi, incredible Canadian dancers.
I headed towards the pier, where the salty air mixed with the sound of seagulls and fishing boats. This spot was where I felt a special connection between the dance of the ocean and the dance of the ballet.
While walking, I stumbled upon a group of local artists creating paintings of the picturesque scenery. One of them even tried incorporating my tutu in their canvas! This impromptu collaboration, born from my little dance through town, became a reminder of how art unites us in so many ways. A fellow art-lover even had me pose against a bright orange backdrop that contrasted with my beautiful turquoise tutu. You can be sure to see that post up on my Instagram.
A few of them, struck by the visual, said “That's beautiful, it's almost like ballet." And that’s exactly how I wanted people to feel! That’s what Tutu Tuesday is about, showcasing how dance can permeate into everyday life, inspiring smiles and sparks of imagination.
Here’s the deal folks. The ballet world, although sometimes it may seem elite or exclusive, it’s not. You can see it on television, on stage, and you can also find it, in the streets, in a fish and chip shop, or even by the pier. That's how Tutu Tuesday transcends beyond a simple dance – it's about breaking boundaries, celebrating style, and finding beauty in unexpected places.
But my trip to St. Lawrence wasn't just about the clothes. It was also about the heart of this community. Their warm hospitality, their love of their heritage, their unwavering spirit. These were the real stars of the show.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, it was time to call it a day. I left St. Lawrence feeling enriched, and ready to dance into my week, and of course, I left people buzzing with Tutu Tuesday’s energy. After all, who doesn't love a little dance in their life? And who says that dance can't happen in the streets of St. Lawrence, Newfoundland and Labrador?
So, remember this: every day is an opportunity to embrace the whimsical, to dance your way through life, to let your personal style shine. Even in the most unexpected corners of our country.
Stay fabulous! Follow along with my next fashion adventure! #tututuesday