Tutu and Ballet News

**23 April 2005** – Darling, you know what they say: there's no such thing as too much tulle! It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a ballet dancer, in possession of a good tutu, must be in want of a stage to prance upon. And, darlings, the world is our stage today!

**From pirouettes to plummet, we’re taking a peek into the fabulous world of tutus. You know I simply adore them, and you know I just have to tell you all about them!**

So grab a cuppa, a croissant, and your most chic fascinator – it’s time to get giddy with tulle!

Let’s begin with the iconic **pink tutu** – the undisputed queen of all things tutu-licious. You’ll find it swirling across the stages of every major ballet company, a vibrant reminder that even the most delicate ballerina can unleash a storm of colour and energy.

Think sugar plum fairies, a sprinkle of whimsy, and the joyous flutter of wings. This is the tutu that dreams are made of! But let’s not forget its sophisticated cousin, the **white tutu**, an ethereal cloud of tulle that embodies elegance, grace, and a hint of the swan lake’s melancholy. Both pink and white offer an air of romance, making us feel like we’ve stepped onto a fairytale stage, poised for a perfect pas de deux. And you just know, darling, that the *pas de deux* is simply divine! You and your dance partner, whirling away in the sunshine.

But the tutu's not all about pretty colours and soft fabrics. There's a certain **ballet-related slang** we all must know! Imagine this… you're enjoying a delightful performance of Swan Lake (as I often do) when your neighbour, utterly lost in the beauty of it all, asks: **“Oh darling, is she wearing a pancake?”** Well, you know, she means **a tutu that doesn’t flare out!** Because it’s all about that flare. That stunning burst of tulle.

There are two primary kinds of **tutu** ,darling: **the classic romantic tutu, and the modern demi-tutu**. The **romantic tutu**, the most dramatic and, some would say, the *most daring,* features a layer upon layer of soft tulle that makes the ballerina look as if she’s suspended on a fluffy cloud. It's the kind of tutu that commands the spotlight, the type that makes even the most jaded balletgoer say, **“Oh, that’s just divine!**

**The demi-tutu**, my sweet, is a much more practical creature, often with a shorter and lighter form. Think of the dancer’s everyday tutu, just as gorgeous but allowing her a little more movement and a chance to show off her **sleek legs** and stunning lines! **She is a vision to behold!** And just look at those **stylish pointe shoes**, a ballet dancer's most essential piece of attire! The pointe shoes add an incredible grace to a ballerina's dance, as she pirouettes gracefully on those delicate little shoes, which help to elevate her to the next level.

But no tutu would be complete without the **leotard** – the ballerina’s go-to garment. What a sleek and sensational invention, designed to show off our dance goddesses’ exquisite physiques. Of course, we all adore **a vibrant leotard**. There's just something about the contrast of black velvet against ivory tulle, isn't there? Just perfect for any evening performance!

Let’s face it: ballerinas, like the tutus they wear, come in all shapes and sizes. They’re not all thin, darling, don’t get me wrong, though we might wish to believe that. And why not? It’s a wonderful world. And no tutu can truly embody that, no tutu can express that wonder, except the one they all wear… **the one they wear in their hearts! **

So, go forth, my darlings, and spread the magic of tutus – you'll never know who you'll inspire! **Because, in this world, tutus, like ballet, are not about perfection. It's all about that beautiful human connection, about passion and about pure joy. That’s what the tutu embodies.**

**And what is more wonderful in the world than joy, and love and a perfect dance? **

Now, darlings, let's just enjoy a nice cuppa and admire some amazing tutus!

  • A stunning black and white tutu with a dazzling diamante detailing – just the ticket for a gala opening!
  • A flowing light-blue tutu, almost transparent in the dappled light, made to accentuate the beauty of a single dance routine!
  • A vintage lavender tutu, just begging to be swept onto a stage under the sparkling spotlights!

Yes, darling, tutus, just like fashion, are timeless treasures! No matter how many new designs are invented, the traditional tutu will always be at the top of my must-have list! Don’t you agree?

It’s time to celebrate tutus, those wondrous works of art. For without the tutu, what would be the ballet? What would become of all our amazing dancers? They are stars – shimmering stars – all thanks to those glorious tutus. So next time you’re lucky enough to witness a dazzling performance of ballet, remember the beautiful history of tutus, the artistry they reflect, and their iconic role in every great story. **I know I certainly will!**