#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1881-02-08

Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu aficionado, and welcome to another thrilling edition of Tutu Tuesday! Today we're stepping back in time, taking a magical train journey to the elegant year of 1881, to discover the fascinating history of the ballet tutu.

Buckle up your ballet slippers, darlings, because this is going to be a ride! 🚂

Now, I know you're all dying to know what happened on this very day back in 1881, so let's delve into the dusty archives. Well, ladies, on 8th February, 1881, the world was captivated by the stunning "La Bayadère," a captivating ballet with choreography by Marius Petipa, with music composed by the genius Ludwig Minkus.

But before we get carried away by all the twirls and leaps, let's rewind the clock a little further, shall we?

The evolution of the tutu is a truly enchanting story, and its beginnings lie in the romanticism of the 19th century.

Remember those voluminous skirts worn by ballerinas during the late 18th century? Picture voluminous layers of fabric that hid their movements. Well, those were slowly replaced by shorter, less restrictive styles, allowing for greater movement and expression.

Imagine the gasp in the theatre as these bold dancers took centre stage in shorter tutus that showcased their exquisite skill and graceful athleticism! It was quite the sensation.

Enter the "romantic era," which was all about soft, delicate beauty, where dancers wanted to be seen, to float, to create the illusion of being weightless. The tutu had found its form.

A little-known fact about these early tutus is that they weren't made entirely of tulle!

These graceful garments were crafted using silk, muslin, and gauze - creating layers that offered the ultimate floaty effect and captured the hearts of audiences. It was a triumph of both form and function, and let's face it, it simply looked gorgeous.

As we move towards the mid-19th century, tutus became more streamlined and tailored, with the use of tulle increasing dramatically. Think fluffy layers and soft delicate ruffles, designed to showcase those enchanting leg movements, and "ahem," those long graceful extensions that audiences simply adored!

In those years, Parisian ballerinas were at the height of their popularity. They epitomized style and elegance, inspiring a passion for all things "French." The Parisian style, a symbol of luxury, became synonymous with tutus - the most fabulous way to express femininity.

### Into the 20th Century

The late 19th and early 20th century saw tutus becoming even shorter and more dramatic, creating a stunning visual spectacle that defined this new era in ballet history.

It's fascinating how fashion, ballet, and history are inextricably intertwined, isn't it? These tutus were not only garments; they were a symbol of change and progression. They mirrored the changing values and styles of society, and a daringly stylish statement of freedom and individuality.

And what about tutus today? Well, they're still a major fashion icon, and a reminder that fashion trends are always in a perpetual state of transformation and revolution!

From the early romanticist tutus to the more athletic tutus of the 21st century, the ballet tutu has a rich and dynamic history. I simply love it!

But darling, the greatest history is yet to be written, and it's all up to you! Let's make sure we embrace the beauty, grace, and confidence that a pink tutu symbolizes. It's a symbol of liberation, joy, and artistic expression! I can't wait to see how tutus inspire us all.

Don't forget to visit the www.pink-tutu.com website and find your inner tutu! 🩰

See you next week, lovelies! 💖

Did you know there is a National Ballet Day? I simply adore celebrating it every last Thursday in July! Mark your calendar to dance your heart out! 💖🩰

This week I'm taking a scenic train ride through Derbyshire! It’s a truly enchanting countryside where you can see those picturesque rolling hills and quaint charming villages. Derbyshire is so incredibly picturesque, I must confess that I absolutely love exploring it. It truly inspires me!