Tutu Tuesday in Nouvelle-Québec, Canada
Bonjour mes amis! It’s a bright and crisp Tuesday morning in Nouvelle-Québec, and I’m feeling positively #tututuesday! I’m writing to you from my little apartment nestled in the heart of the city, and let me tell you, there's nothing more inspiring than getting ready for a ballet class after a steaming cup of Tim Hortons.
It’s amazing how much joy a simple tutu can bring. And what better day to celebrate it than on a Tuesday? It’s that midpoint of the week where you need a little pick-me-up, a little dose of something beautiful to brighten up your day. And trust me, there’s nothing more beautiful than a tutu. (Okay, maybe except for a Timbit…)
Speaking of tutus, the one I’m sporting today is a classic Romantic tutu, with its billowing layers of tulle and its graceful silhouette. I think this particular style suits the city of Nouvelle-Québec so perfectly - a classic, a bit old-world yet so very charming. And as I'm heading to class, it’s reminding me of some of the grand ballerinas who have graced Canadian stages, like Veronica Tennant and Evelyn Hart. Truly inspiring!
Now, I know what you might be thinking – what exactly does a tutu mean to me, and why am I so smitten with this piece of clothing? For starters, it’s a symbol of ballet, a tradition that I’m incredibly passionate about, and one that has enriched my life in countless ways. From the moment I started training at a young age in Nouvelle-Québec, I knew that I was destined for a life revolving around the elegance and grace of ballet. Even with all the aches and pains from barre work, a well-made, beautifully constructed tutu reminds me that passion fuels artistry. And, hey, it’s not a bad outfit either!
Plus, there’s something magical about the way a tutu moves – a light airy puff as I turn and a swoosh when I leap. Every spin and jeté, every développé and arabesque, feels like it’s part of a grand theatrical spectacle, which makes me appreciate all the tiny details – the meticulously sewn seams and the expertly-layered tulle. It’s a symbol of dedication and artistry. You have to respect it!
However, let’s talk tutus. Let's face it – a good tutu can cost you an arm and a leg – especially if you're into all the bells and whistles. So where to look? In Nouvelle-Québec, there’s an awesome little boutique that carries hand-stitched tutus, and I just love supporting local artists! The prices can be steep though – maybe I’ll try my hand at making a tutu someday – but if you’re on a budget, try thrifting. A little vintage flair can elevate your #tututuesday in a unique way! (A tutu on a Tuesday? What a fabulous idea… maybe it was my inspiration.)
You don't have to be a professional dancer to wear a tutu, though, even the casual observer can find magic in this delightful little garment. Just pick one, let it whisk you away and embrace your #tututuesday – the world is your stage!
To help inspire you to join in on #tututuesday, I've created a list of a few different tutu styles you can check out and maybe even try for yourself.
- The Romantic tutu is the classic. If you love big, billowy skirts that look like you're floating on air, this one is for you.
- The Bell tutu – named for its shape – has a longer skirt that gives you a sleek, feminine vibe, but still keeps a delicate airy silhouette. It's a beautiful, classic option if you want a little more length and coverage while still embracing the drama of a tutu.
- The Tutu de Point, the modern-day ballerina. Short, sassy, and a little sassy – this type of tutu is perfect if you want to show off your killer dance moves.
- The Tutu-Inspired Skirt, a great way to add a touch of flair and whimsy to your everyday style.
No matter what your style, don't be afraid to get creative and let your #tututuesday shine!
What is it that makes a tutu so fascinating? Is it the fluffiness, the grace it inspires, the memories of a beloved past, the inspiration to make one yourself, or a sense of being able to make it a personal style choice? I believe it's all of these combined – an opportunity to celebrate beauty in simple and elegant ways, every Tuesday.