Tutu Tuesday in Grand Manan, New Brunswick: A Dance of Fashion and Island Life #tututuesday
Hey everyone, it's your girl, Claire, back at it again with another fashion fix, but this time, it’s a little different! We're trading the bustling city streets for the salty air and breathtaking views of Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick, for a Tutu Tuesday that's sure to leave you twirling with delight!
For those of you who don’t know, I’m a ballet dancer, blogger, and a bonafide fashion fanatic. I love to dance, but I also have a soft spot for classic and modern style and that’s why Tutu Tuesday is such a hoot! Every Tuesday, I put on a tutu and celebrate this iconic piece of dancewear while giving you all a little glimpse into my life on and off the stage. And today’s inspiration comes from my recent trip to Grand Manan, a little island paradise where the ocean meets the sky.
So, imagine this: I’m standing on the edge of a cliff, the wind whipping my hair around my face, with the sparkling blue waters of the Bay of Fundy spread out before me. As I look out at this stunning panorama, I know I have to capture this moment, and what better way than with a Tutu Tuesday post, Grand Manan style!
But first, let's talk tutus! What I love about these beauties is how versatile they are. We all know the classic romantic tutu - a fluffy explosion of tulle, perfect for those grand allegro jumps in the Swan Lake or Giselle - that quintessential romantic ballerina look.
For my island escapade, I opted for a classic, but sleek black tutu, with a bit of a modern twist! It featured a clean line and fitted bodice. Think a ballerina's style meeting an island girl's effortless charm. I topped it off with a crisp white linen top, for a chic contrast. I just loved how this combination played against the natural landscape! You don’t need a stage or even a proper studio to make magic! It was a classic piece of ballet fashion given a fresh twist for this New Brunswick Island!
I wanted my ensemble to capture the essence of the island. Think coastal chic. I chose a pair of light blue, frayed denim shorts - you know, for that comfy yet fashionable look, perfect for walking the trails and exploring the island. My comfy Vans were perfect for hitting the sandy beaches and exploring the beautiful coves. They kept the look cool, comfy, and grounded, blending in with my island adventures. This gave me that perfect mix of classic ballet style with island vibes.
For that touch of sparkle and personality that every outfit needs, I added a simple chain necklace with a small silver seashell charm, reflecting the beautiful treasures of the ocean. For the finishing touch, my trusty sunhat and vintage shades! Let’s not forget sunscreen for a Canadian summer day! This was all about celebrating a ballerina's elegance while staying true to my Canadian roots!
Grand Manan's charm was truly inspiring for this Tutu Tuesday. It’s a reminder that you can find beauty and inspiration anywhere, even if it's in a quaint island, a thousand miles from your nearest dance studio. But it’s not about where you are; it's about expressing yourself and your style.
The island’s energy truly infused my style. It’s an eclectic mix, with rustic wooden cottages tucked beside rugged coastlines, a unique collection of restaurants, quirky boutiques, and of course, a dose of salt air that just whispers adventure.
I started the day exploring the quaint shops, where I found a hand-knitted sweater with a fun lobster design (gotta represent our maritime province!), paired it with my favourite distressed denim jacket – an essential piece for every Canadian's wardrobe – and then set off on a picturesque hike. You could even see some whales during the right time of year!
One of my highlights was stopping for fresh seafood at one of the cozy cafes overlooking the harbour. You can imagine the atmosphere - vibrant colours, warm wooden walls, the smell of salt water and fresh seafood, the sounds of gulls and the laughter of tourists. Pure magic!
And speaking of magic, that's what Grand Manan and Tutu Tuesday both evoke for me. The island is all about unexpected discoveries - a breathtaking view around every bend, the gentle rhythm of the tide, and a chance to unwind and reconnect with nature. And Tutu Tuesday? Well, it's about expressing your inner ballerina, no matter where you are.
For me, combining the two felt natural! Ballet is a journey of expressing emotions, and who wouldn’t want to do it with a bit of style and fashion. Grand Manan inspired me to celebrate those personal journeys - whether they take us to the most picturesque places or simply to our nearest coffee shop! It’s all about feeling confident in our own skin!
From romantic and whimsical to sleek and modern, tutus offer an endless array of options. There are the traditional ones made from tulle and netting that feel light and airy, then there’s the pointe tutu which comes with a stiff fabric base that allows ballerinas to dance on pointe! You can add glitter or embellishments for more drama or pair it with a leotard and tights that accentuate the ballerina’s body shape.
Today's adventure in Grand Manan has certainly solidified my love for both. And you know what, there's no reason you can't channel your inner ballerina and embrace a Tutu Tuesday in your own way, regardless of where you are! We're all about spreading joy and embracing the beauty around us.
What are you waiting for? Let's make every day a Tutu Tuesday, in Grand Manan or wherever you roam. Don’t forget to share your #tututuesday pictures with me, so we can celebrate the magic of fashion and dance!
Here's what you can try for your own Tutu Tuesday adventures:
- Grab your favourite tutu and experiment with different looks – a summer dress, a crop top and high-waisted jeans, a blazer over your shoulder for a more dramatic look! Don’t forget a pair of comfy sneakers for walking!
- Go bold with color and experiment with layering and accessories. Remember, it's your unique expression! Have fun with it!
- Embrace the ballet aesthetic with simple elegance. Think crisp white shirts, a delicate necklace, classic sunglasses. Keep the looks clean, polished and fresh, and let your Tutu take centre stage.
- Let your creative spirit flow and channel the essence of Grand Manan, whether it's your backyard or a new and exciting destination! Take a page out of the book of our island beauty and explore nature and art, expressing your inner ballerina, even in the wild!
Until next time, remember, there’s no better way to feel amazing than twirling in your favourite tutu and sharing your style with the world! Stay fabulous and remember, with the right tutu, you can dance your way through anything! #tututuesday.