Ballet Tutu News 2 - The Pointe of Fashion: TutUs Reign Supreme

The Pointe of Fashion: TutUs Reign Supreme

Oh, darlings! Have you seen the absolutely divine new tutus making their grand debut on the world stage? It’s truly a glorious time to be a ballet aficionado, and let’s be honest, who can resist the undeniable allure of a perfectly crafted tutu? From the whimsical froth of a romantic tutu to the architectural wonder of a contemporary creation, these tutus are truly works of art in themselves.

At the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden last night, I had the distinct pleasure of witnessing a performance of Swan Lake, and my dear, the ballerinas were simply ethereal in their feathered tutus! The delicate tulle, meticulously layered and shaped, seemed to float around them, creating a truly magical effect. The delicate feather accents on the tutu’s bodice were divine, adding a touch of elegance and drama. Each movement, every leap and pirouette was highlighted by the intricate embroidery and the feather trims that adorned the tutus. It was pure magic, darling.

Then, on the other side of the pond, at the American Ballet Theatre, I was treated to an astonishing display of modern dance artistry, where a tutu, oh so very different from the traditional one, played a starring role. It was a daring, modern tutu - a whirlwind of black silk and sharp angles, evoking an urban cityscape, edgy and provocative! The juxtaposition of sleek lines against the more structured ballet technique, with those strong leg extensions and precise footwork was divine.

But let’s face it, dear readers, a tutu is not just a mere costume. It's a symbol, a statement, a canvas upon which to express our most exquisite desires! From the history of the ballet to the fascinating social aspects and even a touch of the whimsical, a tutu tells a story, a history of fashion and artistry. Just think, back in the day, tutus weren’t even made of tulle! Can you imagine? Oh my goodness, silk and satin? I shudder at the thought, darling. How very, very last year!

What does this say about tutus today, then? Oh my dears, it tells me that they are endlessly adaptable, an exquisite form, a shape-shifting garment of dreams! They embody beauty and artistry, daring to be feminine and strong all at once. This is our time for tutus darling! Embrace it!

Some of my personal favourite tutu looks on stage:

• The dramatic, neo-classical tutu in “Sleeping Beauty,” where the deep reds and elaborate embroidery scream dramatic grandeur.
• The diaphanous lightness of “Giselle”, an absolutely ethereal dream in softest tulle with a delicate floral embellishment.
• The bold, abstract design in the new piece I saw at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater – a black tutu with layered netting, a tribute to urban decay but also beauty and urban street art! Divine, darling!

So, my dears, go forth and embrace the tutu! It’s more than just a costume; it’s a work of art. A vision. And let us never forget, even on a dreary Tuesday, that a little bit of tulle goes a long, long way!