#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1986-09-23

Hey everyone! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller, reporting live from... well, actually, I can't reveal my location quite yet. This week's journey's taking me back to the glorious, glittery, fabulous year of 1986!

As you know, this is #TutuTuesday, my weekly ode to the most delightful garment known to womankind. So, grab a cuppa, slip on your most fabulous tutu, and let's dive into the fascinating history of this dance icon.

Now, the 23rd of September, 1986 - what a day! Just picture it: shoulder pads the size of small planets, neon colours blazing, and, of course, the divine tutus! Oh, to be whisked back to this glorious era!

The ballet world, just like today, was buzzing with excitement! But today, in particular, was all about a new production of Swan Lake - such a classic, you see! Just the thought of that stunning, ethereal White Swan costume has me swooning - the flowing lines, the crisp tulle - utter perfection! It seems like such an incredible spectacle. Just thinking about those dazzling white tutus with the softest chiffon in the world - the ultimate in grace and beauty, and that dramatic contrast to the powerful, passionate Black Swan, so sleek and sensual, it's almost like the contrast between moonlight and the storm.

Anyway, back to September '86...

You might be surprised to learn that, unlike today, where we can spot tutus everywhere from a pop video to a school play, the tutu back in 1986 was much more associated with classical ballet. Think Bolshoi Theatre, think Swan Lake - the ultimate ballerina experience!

I have to admit, it fills me with such joy when I travel through time and see those beautifully handcrafted tutus - made with so much care and artistry. They're a true work of art, you know! Every stitch, every fold of tulle, each meticulously crafted feather - a true celebration of dedication to the art of ballet!

Imagine, it was even a bigger event for a budding ballet fan back then to see a live performance. Now, a girl like me has all the YouTube dance videos she can watch!

Now, if you are as smitten with tutus as I am, then you'll appreciate that their history is full of charming tales, unexpected twists and, naturally, a healthy dose of glitter and glamour! It’s not just about twirling; it’s about creativity, expression, and celebrating the female form - what's not to love?

From those early days, the tutu has undergone many exciting transformations!

Have you ever seen a Romantic Tutu? You can’t miss that bell-shaped, fluffy, graceful style! They took centre stage in the 19th century and have never truly disappeared!

Then came the “Classical Tutu,” appearing in the early 20th century. That's what we think of when we hear the word "tutu," right? Shorter, often stiff, with a circular silhouette. A classic beauty - as timeless and graceful as a swan! You know it’s elegant - it is designed to show the dancer’s physique as she gracefully pirouettes. And, it really lets those legs fly!

Then came the ‘Late 20th Century’, the "Contemporary Tutu” (that's us, my lovelies!) - an evolution, dare I say, a rebellion. Less strict and rigid than the “Classical Tutu”. More freedom to explore movement, and a whole lot more artistic licence! We see everything - colours, shapes, layers! A fantastic reflection of contemporary dance!

I must say, each period in history has had its own take on this beloved ballet staple.

Oh, I must also mention “The Ballet Dress”, I must say. Often made in a beautifully flattering Lycra fabric, a great choice for when a ballerina really needs to show off their moves! Perfect for warm-ups and barre work. You could say it’s a kind of tutu’s closest relative – maybe like a ballet tutu’s more athletic, practical cousin, with no frills and definitely no tulle, but every bit as chic.

We’ve even got those glamorous, modern designs in fabrics such as lace and metallic – oh, those tutus really get my creative juices flowing! So, even if you’re not a die-hard ballet buff, I'm sure you can see why this fabulous fashion item is still going strong - it really is a true fashion icon, right up there with the little black dress!

Right, I do think a bit of a tutu update is in order! Now, while a classic white tutu might always have its place on the stage, when it comes to our everyday life (and yes, even when we time travel!), there’s really only one colour fit for the job… yes, I’m talking about pink! Just try me - I guarantee, the moment you slip on that perfect pink tutu, your life will be transformed – instantly fabulous! You’ll instantly be embracing the magic and fun of tutu life! It will set you apart.

I am utterly convinced! I’ll tell you why! It’s about celebrating life’s joy - those special, dazzling moments - it's about finding our own individual flair! If you see a tutu - any tutu - on a bustling London street - it is bound to get a reaction! A tutud smile, a bit of happy energy!

For me, wearing pink is like putting on a power suit! Not a power suit with a skirt, that's a very corporate and slightly bland idea - but rather a power suit with endless possibilities for fun and joy - because that's the secret ingredient in any true ballerina’s toolkit! If I was allowed to write an autobiography - ‘Emma the Tutu Time Traveller - in my pink tutu!’ - I reckon that's exactly what it would be called!

Now, you know I love to browse the internet! It’s such a great way to be inspired! My new #pinktutu dress from online store “Ballet Style UK” is absolutely perfect for all those trips through time. And those beautiful fabrics! Oh, don't even get me started on the patterns!

There’s an abundance of colour, creativity, and passion just waiting to be embraced by anyone, anywhere! Even a princess might want to borrow one of those designs. We all just need a bit of that fabulousness, and a little bit of that magical sparkle in our lives! We're in a golden age of tutu exploration, and we need to embrace the wonder of that amazing freedom!

So, this #TutuTuesday, put on your most vibrant, your most glamorous, your most fabulous tutu - and make the most of it!

That's it for me for this week. Tune in next Tuesday for another time-travelling tutu adventure! Until next time - let the tutus flow!

Lots of love and sparkly wishes, Emma x

PS. Oh, just thought I would share this - it was just such a funny incident, but a testament to the fact that a tutu has the power to make someone smile. A fellow ballerina saw me at the theatre in my pink tutu, she had a bit of a chuckle and she whispered, "Pink? really?" It wasn’t anything mean at all! And in my experience, most ballet girls really have a great sense of humour - she did actually give me a huge grin and told me I’d totally inspired her! It gave me the kind of warm fuzzy feeling that comes from a perfect pas de deux with the right partner - pure joy!