Hello darlings! Itâs Emma, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, back with another #TutuTuesday delve into the glorious history of the ballet tutu. Today, my lovelies, we're jetting back in time to October 4th, 1966! Can you imagine what the fashion world was like then? We're talking about a time of groovy music, fabulous fashion, and the iconic "Mod" style. Oh, how I wish I could have lived through it! But hey, time travelling is in my blood, and so is pink, so let's dive in, shall we?
It was a chilly autumn day in London. A gentle autumn wind ruffled the leaves in Hyde Park as I made my way to the Royal Opera House. It was going to be a grand evening for the arts! You see, I just adore ballet! Nothing is quite as delightful as watching those graceful ballerinas twirl in their tutus, their bodies like poetry in motion! And, well, this being a Tuesday, you know what my obsession is â the tutu!
Speaking of, itâs no secret that I adore pink! It's the colour of romance, dreamy nights, and just a whole lot of happiness! Which is exactly why my trusty, pink tutu is by my side on all my travels - and this journey is no exception. My travel wardrobe has a little bit of everything though - classic black ballet flats and stylish hats, but also bold prints, vintage dresses, and the prettiest petticoats youâve ever seen! Oh, and my dear, the hats! From floppy fedoras to jaunty berets, I never leave the house without a little something to adorn my head! I also have to confess a deep love for everything train-related. I truly believe they are the most charming mode of transport!
Now, back to 1966⌠A real buzz of excitement was circulating about the ballet. They were showcasing a modern adaptation of Swan Lake that night, and I couldn't wait to see the beautiful ballerinas, the intricate costumes and, of course, the majestic tutus! As I settled into my plush velvet seat, I couldnât help but ponder⌠how did the tutu get so famous? You know, the journey from those practical, yet very practical, romantic period costumes to the breathtaking creations we see today, has been so fascinating!
Well, today I want to focus on the classic tulle tutu. I just love the billowing layers! You know, itâs said that the tulle tutu actually emerged around the 1830s, during the reign of Marie Taglioni, the beautiful âSylphâ in "La Sylphide". The ballet world was abuzz about her graceful movements, and as a tribute to her, ballet costumes started becoming lighter, less structured, and voila! The classic, billowing tulle tutu was born! It was revolutionizing for ballet!
For years after its invention, this ballet world favourite just kept getting more glamorous and inventive! But the core design of the classic tutu has stayed true! A wide, flat circle, often consisting of six or more layers of tulle (and sometimes, just to up the wow factor, even more layers!). These tulle wonders are meticulously hand-sewn, layer by layer, which makes each one truly special. Can you imagine, all those beautiful layers just coming together? The effect is stunning, just like the ballerinas themselves!
By 1966, this beautiful design had become deeply intertwined with the history and spectacle of ballet! But what made it even more incredible is that throughout its evolution, the classic tulle tutu has not lost any of its charm. Even now, with all the different ballet fashion choices we see, this timeless style never loses its appeal! Itâs iconic! A quintessential piece that has helped make the ballerina look the embodiment of beauty, grace, and fluidity!
After a simply delightful performance and a fabulous train ride back to my little hotel, I ended the day, reflecting on how extraordinary tutus truly are! Not just the tulle tutu, of course, I mean all sorts of tutus â Romantic tutus, layered tutus, the fluffy fluffy ones. They truly are an absolute marvel! And they bring joy and colour to the world, donât they?
And with that my lovelies, thatâs a wrap for #TutuTuesday this week! Donât forget to check back next Tuesday for more wonderful adventures through ballet history! But more importantly, keep spreading the pink-tutu joy! What is your favourite ballet? Tell me about it in the comments, and let's all remember that, no matter what the future holds, a little bit of pink and a touch of grace always adds sparkle to the world!
Now, if youâll excuse me, I have a grand train journey and a rather exquisite tea shop I must visit! It wouldnât be a perfect day without some pretty teacups and even prettier pink macarons, would it?
See you all next week, lovelies!
Lots of pink love,
Emma xx
