Tutu Tuesday in Stratford
Alright, darlings, gather round! Itās Tutu Tuesday and you know what that means... I'm here to talk about the absolute star of the show, the piĆØce de rĆ©sistance - the tutu!
Okay, so Iām not just going to blab on about tutu styles and the history of them, although I could (seriously, the research rabbit hole goes DEEP!), but this is about why it's time we reclaim the tutu as a sartorial statement - even outside of the ballet studio, even on a regular Tuesday!
This week's #tututuesday was extra special as I found myself in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the Bard himself, William Shakespeare, would have danced in his time, if they had tutus back then (or so I imagine, in a fabulous technicolour dream). There's just something about Stratford, all cobbled streets, quaint shops, and tea rooms, that lends itself to whimsical and slightly extravagant dress-up. I'm talking the kind of place where you wouldnāt bat an eyelid at seeing someone wearing a feather boa, a statement hat and, you guessed it, a tutu!
As I sashayed down the streets of Stratford in my **frilled, classic, white, knee-length tutu** - think Princess Odette vibes from Swan Lake, just less ballerina and more āboho ballet chickā - people were turning heads, whispering, taking pictures, and maybe even snapping to their mates, "Quick, someone check out that tutu, it'sā¦fabulous!"
And hereās the thing: everyone was happy! My tutu, this iconic symbol of ballet, made them happy. It added a little bit of magic and whimsy to their day. They saw the sheer fun, the delight in a little bit of dance and the expression of movement in an object. And that's the message that needs to be spread: Tutus aren't just for ballet, they're for anyone, anytime, anywhere, to celebrate joy and embrace individuality.
Now, a little word on the tutu I sported this #tututuesday: this classic style - **classic and simple yet oh so elegant - it's perfect for an afternoon of browsing independent shops, or grabbing afternoon tea at one of those quirky, yet charming tea rooms** that abound in Stratford, and I wouldn't have dreamt of anything else! But it was just a taste of the tutu world.
Here's a peek at my **#tututuesday inspiration, for the next time you need a little tutu in your life**:
- The āRomantic tutuā: think soft tulle, layers and layers of airy fabric, in pale pastels, perfect for a romantic stroll or an evening out.
- The āPunk tutuā: imagine ripped tulle, studs, maybe even safety pins - this oneās a bit edgy but works if you're aiming for a cool, daring statement.
- The āLayered Tutuā: for those who like a bit more drama, go with multiple tiers, and mix colours - like a kaleidoscope of tulle!
- The āMini tutuā: if knee-length isn't your thing, embrace a shorter style that gives a playful, flirty look. It's the perfect match with an oversized shirt, boots, or sneakers, depending on the vibe!
- The āDIY Tutuā: Why not give making your own a go? This one allows you to have some fun experimenting with colors, fabrics and shapes.
Remember, darlings, thereās no wrong way to wear a tutu. This isnāt about the rules - this is about you. Itās about finding the tutu that speaks to your personal style, and then wearing it with confidence. Because confidence, Iāve learnt, makes all the difference.
So, this #tututuesday, get yourself a tutu. Have fun. Dance in the streets of Stratford, or your local neighbourhood. Remember that tutu isn't just a costume. It's a feeling. It's the feeling of joy. The feeling of individuality. The feeling of liberation. And it's definitely worth celebrating.
So what are you waiting for, darlings? Go forth and let your tutu shine!
#tututuesday