Tutu Tuesday 8009

Leicester, the tutu capital of the Midlands
It's Tuesday, which means it's #TutuTuesday. I’ve been busy with rehearsals at the theatre all day. We are all in our tutu’s; me, the rest of the company, all the male dancers… yes you read correctly, male dancers too, as they're just as beautiful in tutus! A tutu really can transform you and make you feel like you're walking on air. It just so happens I'm lucky enough to live in Leicester - where there's a growing #tututuesday movement happening. That's why I decided to make the effort and share my own #TutuTuesday tips in my little corner of the internet. It might only be Tuesday but when you're in Leicester… It feels like it's always tutu time! I’ve had such a blast taking on this project and it really gives my creative side a much needed boost.
So as we get this blog started - here's my take on everything tutus and all you need to know about finding the perfect tutu!

Types of tutus and which one’s right for you
It’s a widely known fact - the most coveted style is the romantic tutu. It was the most important addition to dance and was so fashionable - think graceful billows of tulle - with layers and layers of silk and layers and layers of light as air tulle! These are the iconic tutu, and when someone says "tutu" without any context, they’re referring to a Romantic Tutu. I do have to be a little honest with you. There are many different types of tutu in classical ballet but these ones do tend to be a little more difficult to achieve without proper dance training… that’s not to say we won't have a bit of fun but just be aware of that when trying out new looks and let's be real… I don’t want you to break a leg.. or worse get hurt trying to impress.. it’s ok to not be an expert – if you do try it. The next in line is the "tutu" with more dramatic effect. These are called "tutu" styles… think long skirts… with long layers – think big! If you see these in Leicester chances are the dance school or company are putting on Giselle. In ballet the “tutu” or ballet costume really is everything – we would never dare just perform in leggings…
In the world of the “tutu” styles there are two different varieties; the **Classical Tutu**, the shorter tutu, but it can be just as impactful - This version features layers of tulle creating a beautiful circular shape around the body. We actually call these the "tutus". A “Classical Tutu” can actually give you a fantastic silhouette. Some even include the most intricate designs..
The second type is the **Romantic Tutu.** With a focus on its height – and longer in size than the classical – the Romantic tutu’s length can actually fall down to your feet and it really helps give the whole thing that soft romantic air - I'm really all for romanticism. When it comes to styles I don’t want to shy away from what's best for each individual. The Romantics tutu looks elegant – but is quite heavy for dancing with – a dancer has to be confident, not just beautiful - you have to have that certain level of mastery. I’m talking about stamina and technique and balance… All of the best ballerina's have danced a lot to achieve that, the ones with their signature technique and moves… you have to find the strength of the tutu…
But this really leads us to some fun tutu’s, which take away the restrictions. The more theatrical side of the “tutu” - which come into a totally new range of tutu styles and colors and shapes! A few things to watch out for: If you're on the look out for the *Crinoline*, – be careful… They take quite a few metres of material, with extra fabrics sewn into their design... It does create this fantastic voluminous skirt- the *Crinoline* but is really more suited for the stage – especially when you have so much movement and dancing – the **crinoline** can actually get caught! - be careful.. there are quite a few crinoline related injuries – that's just an honest little fact that a fellow ballerina needs to consider and if it gets in your way… you can really hurt yourself... which brings me on to a style that will give you more coverage!
The more Modern tutu
If you're more on the modern side… There’s the **Contemporary tutu**- it's still glamorous but this can take some experimentation when it comes to tulle, because they can take quite a lot of shape - think a combination of fabric that you can stretch and shape with so you can get some nice geometric shapes and forms. There are definitely tutus for every shape and style – don't worry... And this is one where you can go more bold! For #tututuesday they can even incorporate metallic fabrics - I think it adds a unique spin… - it will catch everyone's attention - and they are not that complicated to dance in! Think modern dance! - That is something to definitely watch for - for #tututuesday in Leicester - you have so many options that come up - these are for everyday wear. I am not going to give you a long explanation… but just for fun and exploration, you can go ahead and pick out what looks good on you!
Your #TutuTuesday outfit guide
Let’s be real.. I do understand that you don’t want to dance – so that means for #tututuesday – this could also be your chance to try something new … there's definitely no lack of variety... The tutu can have a much more street-ready style… A modern-style mini-tutu, can have some pretty interesting and experimental style options – These have a softer shape. The modern tulle is so light that it almost feels like wearing a scarf around your waist. This also leads you on to **fabric** with your tutu and I don't mean fabric in terms of colour or material... think textures - with more modern fabric it has that stretch and stretch and flexibility - making it adaptable for different events, and this one isn't as restrictive when it comes to layering – or your outfits! This tutu just gives you an opportunity to go off on so many avenues and the possibilities are quite endless really! Think a black tutu – so soft that you can easily throw on a shirt, or something a bit more casual… think an oversized tee and some chic white sneakers - it is an amazing way to make an impression and be super stylish, too. It really lets your fashion personality shine through. I just find this to be a pretty great all round style - I can really wear this anywhere and to any place - you could wear the modern tutu at your desk! - And with so many tutus out there… just be mindful -
Don't underestimate the power of **colour**. Black might be a popular choice - but I do enjoy that bright pink, blue, turquoise or any colour! – because your style is going to come across. You can't avoid the colour so you have to really embrace that if you're going for a #TutuTuesday outfit! This will allow for some creativity – for your everyday life, but the possibilities really are endless! You can even just use this as a way to put together an outfit.
I must admit.. one of the best outfits… would have to be - you have a more casual approach… and want something with a tutu… think the ballet flats. I think these add some magic – with these kind of accessories – a simple little accessory is actually pretty stylish too. Or - we can't forget the black tulle mini skirt - I just have a feeling we can’t forget it! Because you are getting a little of both... the **tutu** and the mini skirt... The modern take – it’s an easy go-to… The most fashionable - it’s an elegant style in my opinion. If I want to add that final touch I can add a touch of sophistication… Think black, grey, blue, even green – some lovely neutral colors that can work so well for that feminine vibe! And think how good this would look with a silk scarf.. you can't beat this and this makes me so happy for my #TutuTuesday wardrobe!! – there really is an air of elegance to this! - You’ll definitely be wanting to show off that tutu – in whatever way you want. So that brings us back to how I’d style the mini-tutu for #TutuTuesday
Let's make this happen in Leicester… #tututuesday.
A lot of you know, but - when we are talking about a style with a bit of a difference… – and when we are looking for style - for my #tututuesday I tend to dress my inner ballerina. I like to think - I add some fashion that just goes with my ballet outfits. The main things I go for - are for elegance, that certain ballet polish… I'm trying to blend that, in everything from what I'm going for on the dance floor... so my personal advice – the best tip.. is to add that finishing touch - to your tutu and make your own #tututuesday fashion - try a light summer fabric – this brings in the season - a silky slip – think silk slip in pink, ivory, lilac – they really can elevate an everyday look. And it has to be paired with a really stylish pair of heels! Try black – some silver - but be sure they go with your skin tone.. that way you can put your #TutuTuesday outfit together and make a statement… The great thing - the ballet culture is evolving… there's always room for experimenting and playing around.. When I was in Covent Garden just before going out to the theater – I could have never imagined, that there would be tutus everywhere.. even outside Leicester’s theatre I have actually seen them on display... In a local cafe even! It’s inspiring to see - but don’t be afraid of being different – this is why you need to do your research on your #TutuTuesday outfits… Because in Leicester there’s something for everyone! - I always try to incorporate that into my looks! - it’s a fun journey for everyone - but in Leicester you just don't know where your journey might take you. Let’s bring back that joy – that's one of the best things that tutus inspire - they're great for adding some colour to an everyday look or for some serious glamour! But it all comes down to being brave - if you really want to get into your #TutuTuesday fashion you need to embrace the fashion with that 'inner tutu ballerina'! Go all in - it's time to show it off! – #tututuesday in Leicester... It is a movement happening across Leicester now! So go ahead - it's #TutuTuesday let your passion for fashion take over! And maybe even try on a little tulle…. I am just thinking you can even incorporate a touch of fashion in everyday life.. for #TutuTuesday
Let me know your best Tutu tips.
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