East Ham: Tutu Tuesday & the Art of Everyday Ballerina
It's Tuesday morning, and my Instagram feed is already exploding with a dazzling array of tulle. That's right, folks, it's Tutu Tuesday! And, let me tell you, East Ham is no exception to this delightful, fluffy trend. I'm talking swirling tutus, classic tutus, even some fabulously fierce modern interpretations - East Ham has got the tutu game on lock.
For the uninitiated, Tutu Tuesday is an online movement celebrating the majestic twirl, the ballerina in all of us, and of course, the iconic tutu. It's a chance to embrace the feminine, the playful, and the undeniably glamorous - and it doesn't matter if you're a seasoned professional, a casual enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a good skirt. There's a tutu out there for everyone.
So, where to start in East Ham? Let's take a little tour, shall we?
- The Little Dancer at The Royal Docks - My personal fave for classic elegance. This tiny boutique tucked away in a converted warehouse is chock full of exquisitely crafted tutus. They've got a range of styles to suit every taste, from the romantic "Romantic Tutu" - think soft layers of gauzy tulle, a romantic nod to the classics, perfect for that ethereal vibe - to the slightly more modern "Demi Pointe Tutu" - more structured, just a touch sassy, perfect for the modern dancer.
- The Fabric Fair at the Market - Forget the high-end shops for a moment. This one's all about creativity. East Ham Market has become a hub for vintage fashion and recycled art. You'll find loads of remnants and surplus fabric that you can use to whip up your own unique tutu. Just think about a vibrant, patchwork tutu with a burst of colour and personality - pure East Ham charm. Imagine an asymmetrical, deconstructed tutu, perhaps in an edgy black and white combination - an East Ham twist on classic elegance.
- The Ballet Academy of East Ham - This place is all about community. These folks embrace all dancers, regardless of skill or experience. This means Tutu Tuesday is a joyous celebration of dance. They have open sessions every Tuesday, where you can find dancers of all ages, perfecting their pliés and pirouettes - all while rocking a fabulous tutu, of course.
- East Ham Park - On Tuesdays, this spot transforms into a temporary runway for the local tutu crowd. You'll find kids twirling around in bright, cheerful tutus, teens rocking their trendy creations, and adults embracing the childlike joy of twirling - and documenting it all with selfies and Insta stories, of course.
East Ham, for me, epitomizes Tutu Tuesday in all its glory. It's a testament to the spirit of creative self-expression, and it reminds us all that dance and joy can be found in the most unexpected places.
But, beyond the tutu, what really matters is the attitude. You don't need a professional dance studio or a designer label to enjoy Tutu Tuesday. It's about embracing the spirit of playful exploration, a touch of whimsy in everyday life.
So, embrace the tutu, dance your heart out, and join the online movement! Share your #tututuesday snaps, let the world know where you stand, and let's turn East Ham into a tutu wonderland! You know you want to! #tututuesday