Tutu and Ballet News

Tutues Take Over! Fashionistas in a Tizzy as Ballet Breaks the Bank!

Darlings, prepare to be dazzled! Yesterday, 15th August, 1999, the world witnessed a fashion revolution as audacious as a grand jeté! Ballet, yes ballet, broke free from its velvet ropes and waltzed right into the heart of haute couture, sending ripples of excitement, and maybe a bit of raised eyebrow, through the fashion world.

It all started at the Paris fashion week, where the most daring designers showcased their autumn/winter collections, and the one thing they all seemed to have in common, were the tutus!

Yes, darlings, those little wispy concoctions normally associated with, well, you know, twirling ballerinas, took centre stage, proving once again that fashion truly knows no bounds, just like a truly breathtaking grand plié! I mean, who would have thought that something so delicate could be so daring, so dramatic, and, dare I say, so damn chic?

The tutus came in all shapes and sizes, and while some stayed true to the classic ballet aesthetic, others got a decidedly modern makeover, adorned with embellishments ranging from shimmering sequins to cheeky feather boas, bringing an element of playful whimsy to the catwalk that left the crowds spellbound, even if it did cause some bewildered expressions amongst those more accustomed to tailoring and trench coats.

Imagine my excitement! Seeing tutus adorning supermodels was a real treat, a feast for the eyes, especially for a fashion-obsessed soul like myself. And the sheer variety was stunning - there were floaty, frothy affairs in candy floss colours, starkly dramatic, all black numbers, and even some fabulous versions in leopard print, making my inner feline shriek with joy!

Here's the thing, darling - tutus are no longer confined to the ballet world! They’re moving into your wardrobe, whether you like it or not, and trust me, you will like it, I’ve been assured! They’re appearing on the high street, even in our local Sainsbury's, and all the "It Girls" are vying to get their tutu on. From Madonna to Gwyneth Paltrow, these sartorial powerhouses are embracing the new trend with gusto, even sporting tutus to galas, sending a clear message - "We’re not afraid to be a bit playful, a bit daring, and, above all, a bit fabulous! "

There was a little bit of a stir amongst some of the more "traditional" fashion houses. Imagine, darlings, tutus amongst the pinstripes and pearls, utter chaos, it was all too much for some. They were having fits, clutching their Chanel handbags and their little black dresses. "It's too whimsical! It’s too playful! It's not appropriate for serious women!" They cried, as though ballet, which involves strength, poise and incredible artistic expression, could possibly be frivolous or frivolous or unsuitable for strong women. Tut tut, darlings, not very “serious" of them, is it now?

Don’t get me wrong, there’s always going to be a certain level of, well, resistance. I understand why some women are hesitant, or, dare I say, petrified, to embrace the tutu! It's certainly a bold statement, even if you just happen to pop it on with jeans and a t-shirt! I mean, you can’t go waltzing into work or a posh lunch wearing a tutu unless you want everyone’s attention (and the look of shock!) to be solely on you, and it is possible to, I mean, do overdo it, if you get me. However, the key to nailing the tutu look is to do it with a confident smile and just enough sass. Then it’ll add that much-needed touch of playfulness, just like those fabulously flamboyant costumes in a Russian Ballet, or maybe just add a hint of whimsy to a serious cocktail dress, depending on your style!

There is no denying the magic that a tutu can work! And if these fashionistas can brave the sartorial risks, I think we should embrace this fabulous new era in fashion and maybe even embrace the opportunity to break free from those rigid, traditional looks and add a bit of whimsy, a bit of sparkle and, yes, even a bit of ballerina into our lives!

Some tutu style tips from your darling fashion guru!

  • A Tutu and a basic tee will work on those summer barbecues with a bit of added flair.
  • Go for a shorter tulle tutu and pair it with a killer heel and a classic dress. Or try a fluffy ballerina tutu with a slim-fitting dress.
  • For a sophisticated touch, think of pairing a long skirt in a coordinated shade of tulle with a nice chunky knitted jumper, and an elegant black or dark, classic coat. Just throw on a couple of statement jewels. And ta-dah, you are ready to wow everyone!
  • Go for it! Do experiment! Embrace the drama! You never know! Maybe you just want to channel your inner child! Or maybe just add a bit of fashion-forward style, just like me.