Okay, so I'll be honest: it's Tuesday morning and I'm already feeling that mid-week slump. The only thing lifting my spirits right now? It's Tutu Tuesday! I think I'm finally getting the hang of this whole adulting thing, but Tuesdays can still be tough! Especially if, like me, you work full-time but moonlight as a freelance writer.
But then the tutu happens. As soon as I pop on a tutu and twirl around my living room (don't judge!), my mood changes. It's just so much fun to embrace the theatricality of it all. Honestly, sometimes the thought of doing a laundry mountain just disappears – even temporarily – because you're busy admiring yourself in a glamorous tut-tut!
Tutu Tuesdays have been a long time coming. They were originally dreamt up by a group of London ballet dancers as a way to keep things fun and a way to remember what they loved most about dancing - especially after a tough rehearsal session. They posted pictures on Instagram – all about them enjoying the ritual of tutu-donning – and it went viral! So here I am, years later, happily hopping aboard the Tutu Tuesday train! Chelmsford's Got Talent (and Tutus)
Of course, being a true-born Chelmsfordian, I felt compelled to bring Tutu Tuesday to my hometown. You can be sure I hit the streets in a gorgeous peach coloured tutu, looking like a confectionary ballerina dream, just to celebrate. I went into the local library and got some great tutus from the theatre department (with the librarian's permission, of course – you've got to be careful in these times!) and I also checked out a couple of fantastic second hand stores in the high street for the perfect dancewear. The people were amazing; they helped me find everything from perfect pointe shoes to shimmering tights and even the perfect pair of sequinned flats.
In all my time working as a writer, I think I've rarely had so much fun, just wandering around town, snapping pictures, doing my best to show everyone what a gorgeous tutu can do! There were a few perplexed stares (apparently, the older generation doesn't get Tutu Tuesdays), but there were some fantastic encounters, too.
I must confess, I even ended up impromptu teaching some little ballerinas some basic ballet moves. I got into the swing of things so much, I think I gave one group of giggling 8-year-old girls about 30 minutes of dance lessons. That gave me another rush of joy. They were super excited and seemed to adore it!
There were so many things I noticed:
- Tutus in Chelmsford really are for everyone - they’re an exciting and fun way to get dressed up, embrace a bit of childish joy, or maybe to dress for a night out or even a day out in the park.
- They can even get you talking, too! I spoke with lots of people about ballet, where to buy amazing tutus, what their memories of dancing were and the beauty of vintage ballet costumes!
- It’s nice that Chelmsford’s embrace my crazy little idea! They just get it; they got it straight away! (They did giggle, which, let’s be honest, was half the fun)
For centuries, the tutu has been an integral part of ballet’s unique, dramatic fashion. And it's so versatile. From classical and elegant to whimsical and edgy - the possibilities are truly endless.
I was reminded of this while at Chelmsford’s Dance School for a dance-filled evening of classes. You can always depend on ballet schools to make it extra fun. The teacher encouraged us to really get into it and do the Tutu Tuesday Challenge – we had to strike a fabulous pose! They put it online and I nearly choked with laughter! It made for an hilarious Instagram story. They really had embraced my Tutu Tuesday idea and added a real Chelfordshire edge to it all. The Tutu Tuesday Challenge in Chelmsford is now a thing, and, frankly, I couldn't be prouder. Tutu Tuesday Style: How to Find The Right Tutu for You
It’s Tutu Tuesday so I’m feeling super fashionable (who doesn’t feel fashionably fabulous in a tutu?) so, of course, there were many discussions on where to find the best ones.
When it comes to tutus, I think there's a style for everyone. Here are my favourite kinds, with some tips for choosing:
- The Classic Tutu: It’s perfect if you want to make a statement - all frilly, super dramatic and ultra glamorous! These will be made of many layers of netting and usually have a beautiful fabric waistband or bodice. They’re stunning for a real fairytale look and the real focal point of any outfit. You can’t go wrong with a traditional tulle tutu!
- The Romantic Tutu: Think long and floaty for that dreamy ballet feeling - these can be styled up in different ways. If you prefer to embrace that 'en pointe' aesthetic they can be kept long - you might even be able to find a tutu made of soft cotton gauze. For a softer approach, it might be best to find a lovely one in a gorgeous silky satin - the perfect choice if you’re on a relaxed date, perhaps.
- The Modern Tutu: The key is asymmetrical – maybe you'll go for something a little shorter. For instance, I find this tutu can work in all sorts of casual looks. You can layer with a pair of jeans and a sweater for a stylish and unique vibe or if you want to really bring out that urban, downtown aesthetic. You can always create an effortless edgy feel by teaming your tutu with oversized shirts, a simple plain vest top and even leggings!
- The Whimsical Tutu: A great option for people who want something super unique and a chance to express your individuality! I saw some great ones made from beautiful fabric trims (that were so stylish I just wanted to take them all). The patterns and designs I saw on some of these really showcased how far people’s creativity can go. Just think: polka dots, paisley designs or floral prints! Perfect if you like a statement look, these are a wonderful way to add personality and make a real splash with your ensemble.
Well, that’s Chelmsford's Tutu Tuesday all done! My city and me: we made this magical event happen. It was truly great.
Remember – let’s not keep this trend solely to Chelmsford! #Tututuesday needs to become a worldwide phenomenon - because really, who doesn’t need an excuse for a little fun and fashion in the middle of the week!
And honestly? A chance to wear a tutu really brightens up any Tuesday – what a fabulous, quirky fashion treat that we can all appreciate, wherever we live.