Tutu Tuesday 32340

Fernie, British Columbia: Tutu Tuesday and the Joy of Twirling Hey, fellow dance enthusiasts and fashionistas! It's your girl, Chloe, coming at you live from the picturesque town of Fernie, British Columbia. It's a gorgeous day, the air is crisp, the mountains are majestic, and... oh yeah, it's Tutu Tuesday! For those of you who are new to the #tututuesday movement, let me break it down. It's all about celebrating the iconic, the whimsical, the magical garment that is the tutu. From the classic, perfectly-layered Romantic tutu, to the dynamic and daring modern styles, the tutu has a place in the hearts (and closets) of every dancer, past, present, and future. I've always had a special place in my heart for tutus. It wasn't just because my Mom, who was a ballet teacher, had a closet full of them when I was a little kid, although that definitely played a part. But, it's because of the way they make me feel. Every time I put on a tutu, I feel a sense of confidence, joy, and a touch of magic. It's like I transform into a different version of myself, a version who is ready to leap, twirl, and express herself freely. I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. Tutu Tuesday has become a worldwide phenomenon, with dancers and non-dancers alike celebrating the power of the tutu. But today, we're focusing on Fernie, British Columbia. As much as I love to perform on a big stage in a city like Vancouver, the little dance studio here in Fernie reminds me how powerful and profound dance can be when the focus is on the passion and connection you feel as you move. It’s inspiring to me that so many dance schools are flourishing here in BC. Vancouver has a ton of prestigious schools of course. But in the interior of BC, you’ll find such dedicated students and instructors in small communities, often learning in church basements or community centers! But I promise you, those dancers in the heart of BC know how to move! Now, I wouldn't be a good fashion blogger if I didn't share some insights into the different styles of tutus that I've been admiring in Fernie. From the sleek lines of the *tutu de pointe*, made for classical ballet, to the bold and innovative modern styles like the *contemporary tutu*, these beauties represent a continual evolution of dance and design. The *Romantic tutu*, that first emerged during the 19th century with its full layers of tulle, will always have a special place in ballet history and our hearts. It was the very definition of feminine grace and ethereal beauty. But if you look carefully you’ll notice they still play a key role in choreographic productions, not just in classical ballet. They just don’t dominate the dance floor like they used to. For modern dancers, the *tutu de pointe* has gone through some interesting evolutions. It’s no longer the bulky and billowing design we saw in classic ballets. Many contemporary choreographers are incorporating a more streamline and lighter tutu de pointe for their productions. And then we have the *contemporary tutu*, an ever-evolving masterpiece that breaks the mold and embraces fabric and form in ways that push the boundaries of classical ballet tradition. It's no longer limited to a ballerina on point. We see male dancers incorporating modern styles that challenge our perceptions of masculinity and dance. I have been so impressed by the diverse and unique choreographic projects these dancers in Fernie have produced. * A beautiful piece in which a young ballerina used the structure of a vintage, multi-layered, Romantic tutu as an expressive design element in the storytelling for her choreography * A breathtaking rendition of “The Rite of Spring” which included modern tutus constructed out of leather and recycled textiles, reminding us how the ballet world is taking an interest in eco-fashion * An abstract performance with choreographic design for several male dancers who donned variations on a modern tutu using different kinds of silk and linen to add subtle movement and texture These are just a few examples of the tutus that are captivating and inspiring the ballet scene in Fernie. I feel so grateful to be a part of this community, and to be able to celebrate dance and fashion with all of you! As a lover of all things beautiful and bold, I say: let’s celebrate the art, passion, and creativity of #tututuesday! See you on Tuesday next week, fellow dance lovers, from somewhere in beautiful British Columbia!