Tutu Tuesday in Bulwell: A Fashionable Flutter #tututuesday As a ballet dancer, my love affair with tutus runs deep. They're the embodiment of grace, elegance and sheer ethereal beauty. So imagine my delight when I discovered that every Tuesday, Bulwell, Nottinghamshire (my stomping ground!), transforms into a swirling vortex of tutus, thanks to a movement aptly named #tututuesday! Every Tuesday, the streets of Bulwell are adorned with a rainbow of tutus. It's a joyous spectacle, a celebration of life, art and (of course!) fashion. I thought I knew the power of tutus – after all, they’ve been my sartorial constant throughout my dancing career - but I was wrong. #tututuesday is a movement that embraces every iteration of the tutu – the classic romantic tutu, with its multi-layers of tulle creating that iconic billowing shape; the dramatic contemporary tutu with its streamlined silhouettes and dynamic angles, designed to perfectly echo the expressiveness of contemporary dance; the playfully whimsical tutu in tulle that's crafted in shades and textures that defy tradition; and of course, the dazzlingly sparkly tutu for those moments when only the most glamorous ensemble will do. It’s amazing how this simple piece of clothing has united this community. I caught up with local mum, Karen, at the Tuesday market in Bulwell – an incredible place where everything from local crafts to fresh vegetables are available – and she told me that her daughters adore the event. They don their tutus for the entire day and enjoy the special vibe of the day! Here's a glimpse into a typical #tututuesday: * **Morning Coffee & Tutus**: The day begins with a morning coffee at a local cafe. The place is a whirlwind of swirling tutus. Everyone from students to grannies are donning their finest feathered or sequin-embellished creations. * **A Tutu-Tastic Market:** The weekly market is overflowing with colourful personalities all decked out in their finest tutus! The sound of cheerful banter and laughter echoes throughout the market square. I can't resist joining in on the fun, trying on some of the unique tutus I spotted at a local vintage stall – they’ve definitely got more sequins than the ones I usually wear in the ballet studio. * **The Bulwell Ballet Blitz**: There’s a dance session happening at the Bulwell Community Centre where people of all ages are encouraged to try out ballet (or something that looks a bit like ballet!) with local dance instructors! Even the toddlers are attempting to execute a graceful arabesque! The sheer enthusiasm is contagious – and I don't mind admitting that it got my ballerina blood pumping too. * **Dinner with a Tutu:** What better way to conclude #tututuesday than with a delicious meal? Bulwell is teeming with restaurants that provide a delightful variety of cuisines and they all seem to be participating in the Tutu Tuesday spirit, even the Chinese takeaway was decorated with bows. **#tututuesday: It's more than just fashion.** While the tutus are undeniably stylish – especially in a town that might not typically be associated with haute couture - the spirit of #tututuesday goes far beyond fashion. It's about embracing creativity and embracing community. It's about breaking away from the ordinary and making each Tuesday extraordinary. And, honestly, there's nothing better than seeing someone in a pink feathered tutu, happily enjoying a latte at the coffee shop. It brings a smile to my face every time. It’s an absolute joy to see how the town is bringing joy and laughter with such a simple, yet transformative idea. It's a brilliant reminder that there’s always room to have a little fun, embrace the extraordinary - and it all started with a simple tutu! Here are some more things I love about #tututuesday in Bulwell:** * **Accessibility**: This movement doesn't discriminate, it embraces people from all walks of life. You'll see tutu-clad children playing in the park, grandmas with their fancy tutus walking their dogs, and young adults enjoying an ice-cream in the sunshine – all embracing the festive spirit of #tututuesday! * **Inclusivity:** The diversity of tutu styles on display - everything from shimmering white tutus to neon-hued ones that are sure to turn heads - perfectly represents the community's dynamic personalities. Whether your style is classically elegant or vibrantly quirky, #tututuesday allows you to embrace your own unique style, and be comfortable in your own skin! * **The Community Spirit**: People seem genuinely happy to be part of this movement! They’re all welcoming, friendly and are always happy to have a chat about tutus. It’s been a brilliant opportunity for the community to bond, sharing their unique stories and creativity. It truly feels like we're all part of something bigger than ourselves. Final Tutu Thoughts: #tututuesday is a perfect example of how small, creative gestures can have a huge impact. It's a powerful reminder that you can spark joy and unity with just a dash of creativity and an attitude that encourages everyone to just “Tutu!” In a world often obsessed with fast fashion, #tututuesday celebrates longevity, diversity and self-expression through the simple art of a tutu. As I’m putting the finishing touches to this blog post, I’m already looking forward to next Tuesday. The tutus, the community, and the pure, joyful energy of #tututuesday are sure to draw me back again! If you’re looking to add some extra sparkle to your Tuesday, I encourage you to check out Bulwell, and immerse yourself in the #tututuesday fun. I guarantee it’s an experience you’ll never forget.