#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1936-07-14

Welcome back, darling tutu enthusiasts, to my little corner of the internet - #TutuTuesday, episode 5455!

As a devoted disciple of all things tulle and twirls, my journey through time has landed me back in the glorious era of 1936. Let me tell you, London was buzzing with energy, with the sounds of jazz spilling out of speakeasies and the aroma of freshly brewed tea filling the air - such a lovely blend of old and new. Today, I’m whisked back to the world of the Ballet, a world where the shimmer of silk and the grace of a well-executed arabesque make my heart soar!

Now, while I love the sparkle of my own pink tutu - let's be honest, what ballerina doesn't? - it’s only through understanding the history of these wondrous creations that I truly appreciate the journey of the ballet tutu. So, strap on your fanciest shoes, grab a cup of Earl Grey, and let's travel back in time together!

In 1936, the ballet tutu wasn’t quite the whimsical cloud of tulle that we see today. Oh no, darlings! Back then, it was all about the classic Romantic Tutu, with its tight bodice, layered skirts, and just the right amount of flounce to showcase the ballerina's elegant legs. This wasn't a tutu you could simply toss on; it was crafted by the hands of master dressmakers and took hours to put together!

But why a tutu in the first place? Well, it's all about giving those delicate little toes the spotlight they deserve! By adding extra volume to the skirts, ballerinas were able to showcase their extended leg positions, allowing the intricate steps to really shine.

Think of it as a ballerina's stage makeup – it’s about enhancing and highlighting the art! Imagine being able to flawlessly execute a fouetté and a grand jeté all the while wearing something so wonderfully ethereal – it makes the steps flow with grace and magic.

I spent this beautiful afternoon enjoying a matinee performance of “Giselle” at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden - pure theatrical heaven! It’s always a thrill to witness the sheer artistry and elegance of this beloved ballet, especially with a vibrant cast that brought Giselle's story to life. And the tutus? Magnificent! Each dancer wore her Romantic tutu, every silken stitch carefully considered and adding to the overall aura of beauty. The pale pink tulle with delicate accents, all meticulously crafted to enhance the dancers' movements – pure bliss!

And let's not forget the costumes! Each element, from the tutus to the headdresses, reflected the story, contributing to a captivating theatrical experience that lingers in your mind long after the final curtain. It’s a constant reminder of the incredible detail that goes into a true ballet performance.

While I can’t guarantee your everyday tutu will resemble a stage-worthy creation, here’s my #TutuTuesday tip to bring a touch of the Romantic era into your own wardrobe: Embrace a full-bodied, layered skirt! It might not be the most practical outfit for daily errands (although I do think a pink tutu looks stunning in a delicatessen!), but adding some volume to your skirts gives a charming, whimsical flair, channeling that touch of ballerina glamour.

1936 was a fascinating time for fashion – think glamorous gowns, elegant hats, and an air of sophistication that feels both classic and alluring. There’s a distinct feminine touch that feels very tutu-inspired, if you will! While today we see bold trends that come and go, I believe that fashion holds a key element that remains timeless – elegance and beauty.

It's this very elegance that continues to make ballet tutus, in all their various styles, a truly captivating sight to behold, and my inspiration for my very own time-traveling tutu adventures!

And you know what, my lovely readers? There's more! We're just starting to see the birth of modern dance styles! In a few short decades, we’ll see a playful evolution in the way tutus are used and incorporated into the art form, but one thing that's going to stay true? The captivating magic of that tulle fabric!

But for now, we’ll leave those changes for another Tuesday. For today, let's remember that ballet tutus are more than just pretty skirts; they’re an intricate part of a truly captivating art form. So next time you find yourself watching a ballerina gracefully soar across the stage, take a moment to appreciate the story behind her exquisite costume, and remember: Every ballerina deserves a perfect pink tutu!

Until next week, dear readers, stay sparkly and dance your way into a fabulous week!

Always tutu-fully yours,

Emma

www.pink-tutu.com

(Follow my adventures in all things pink, ballet and, of course, tutues!)