Tutu Tuesday in Rossburn, Manitoba: A Ballet Lover’s Delight #tututuesday It's Tuesday, which means it's time for Tutu Tuesday, and I'm feeling extra sparkly today! As a ballet dancer, a Canadian, and a fashion enthusiast, there's no better way to start my week than by celebrating the iconic garment that has captivated generations of dancers. Today, I'm going to explore the different styles of tutus and their unique place in ballet history. From the fluffy and romantic Romantic tutus to the streamlined and athletic modern tutus, there’s a tutu style for every taste. * **Romantic Tutus** – Think of these as the OG tutu style! Popular in the 19th century, Romantic tutus are characterized by their layers of soft tulle, typically in white or pale pink. This style adds an ethereal and dreamy quality to performances and they are most famously worn in ballets like "La Sylphide" and "Giselle". * **Classical Tutus** – These iconic tutus, with their classic shape and tiered structure, were first designed by the great choreographer Marius Petipa in the late 19th century. They often feature layers of stiffer tulle and have a pointed, bell-shaped silhouette that emphasizes the graceful lines of the ballerina. Some notable ballets that showcase these graceful beauties include "Swan Lake" and "The Sleeping Beauty". * **Modern Tutus** – Developed in the 20th century, these tutus reflect the shift towards more expressive and athletic forms of dance. Modern tutus, unlike their more rigid predecessors, often incorporate softer, flowing fabrics that allow for greater range of movement. With their clean lines and focus on fluidity, they perfectly complement contemporary ballets. Here in Canada, there's a rich tradition of ballet that is celebrated across the country. We are a land where tutus twirl at grand theaters in big cities and smaller community venues in rural towns. Just imagine! A beautiful tutu shimmering on a sunny afternoon at a studio in Vancouver, while another sparkles in the historic halls of a Winnipeg theatre. You don’t have to be a ballet dancer to appreciate the magic of a tutu. It’s a symbol of elegance, beauty and the power of human movement, and a piece of art that can be appreciated by all. I’ve always had a particular fondness for the whimsical and colorful tutus. I adore those bright and cheerful tutus! While they can definitely look amazing onstage, they are so much fun for everyday life as well! **Fun #tututuesday Activities to Try at Home** - Turn on your favorite ballet music and practice some simple moves at home. - Experiment with different ways to wear a tutu: try pairing it with a t-shirt, a cardigan, or a vintage blouse. - Explore local ballet schools and watch some performances, or even take a beginner class! I truly believe that wearing a tutu is not just about showcasing your fashion sense; it’s about embracing the artistic and whimsical side within you. So let’s get creative and spread the tutu love! Happy #tututuesday!