#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1993-11-09

Hello lovelies! Welcome back to Pink Tutu! 👋 It's me, Emma, your favourite tutu-obsessed time traveller, and today's #TutuTuesday takes us on a magical journey to November 9th, 1993!

Before we step back in time, a little update from the land of pink: My mission to get everyone wearing a pink tutu continues apace! This past weekend, I convinced an entire football team to wear tutus for their annual fundraiser. They were thrilled to be helping a great cause AND feeling a touch of ballet elegance at the same time. It's amazing what a bit of pink power can achieve!

Anyway, back to 1993! Grab a cuppa, your favourite tutu, and let's hop aboard the time machine! We're going to Paris, the fashion capital of the world, where tutus have a long and beautiful history. And who doesn't love Paris? Especially when you're sporting a fluffy pink tutu! 💖

First off, let's rewind to the roots of the tutu. Imagine this: Marie Taglioni, a legendary ballerina, twirling gracefully across the stage in a flowing, romantic dress…and then, BAM! A revolutionary idea hit! Cut away the bulk, lighten the fabric, and voila, the tutu was born.

Think back to the early days, before the invention of the tutu, and imagine dancers, beautiful as they may have been, encumbered by long skirts. It would be like trying to do a cartwheel wearing a picnic blanket! The tutu liberated the dancer, allowing for freedom of movement and stunning, breathtaking leaps.

By the late 19th century, tutus had taken on a classic look we recognise today, the tulle skirt, either knee-length or with multiple layers reaching down to the toes, held aloft by an under-bodice. This style was perfected during the Romantic period of ballet. But there's more! In the 20th century, the tutu saw some exciting twists, evolving with the ballet world.

We've had the glorious classic, but in 1993, modern ballet embraced innovation. While the traditional tutu held its place in classics like "Swan Lake," modern ballet, like the amazing works of choreographers such as Martha Graham, often did away with the traditional form altogether.

You see, it's all about telling the story through movement, and sometimes, a minimalist approach is best. A modern ballet tutu could be anything from a simple, form-fitting leotard, evoking a more streamlined aesthetic, to a stunning, almost futuristic design incorporating layers and angles, creating an impression of dynamism. It's fascinating to see the tutu's evolution reflecting the artistic landscape.

Speaking of artistic landscapes, on this day in 1993, Paris is abuzz with fashion, art, and of course, ballet. Can you imagine? The world premiere of “The Enchanted Lake" by Russian ballet choreographer Sergei Prokofiev is at the Théâtre National de l’Opéra. Just imagine the stunning tutus on those ballerinas! 😍

And wouldn't it be dreamy to be in Paris right now? I’m already planning my next trip! Can you imagine? Arriving in Paris by train, stepping out of the Gare du Nord and onto the streets, the iconic Eiffel Tower glittering in the distance? I can feel it now, the air humming with Parisian chic and artistic energy. The cafes, the shops… Oh! How I’d love to have a croissant at the Cafe de Flore.

Now, what’s a Parisian trip without a bit of tutu shopping? I’d be popping into every charming boutique, discovering unique tutus, and dreaming of tutus galore!

Paris, like the ballet world, is constantly reinventing itself. Trends come and go, but the power of the tutu remains constant! It's a symbol of beauty, grace, and timeless artistry that transcends the ages.

And for those who need a touch of pink tutu magic in their lives, don’t forget, I'm offering a "Tutu of the Week" subscription on www.pink-tutu.com! We have a beautiful range of hand-crafted tutus, from classic white to playful neon pink. Just because we’re time travellers doesn't mean we have to give up the joy of shopping for tutus!

Until next time, remember: Embrace the world, spread the joy of ballet, and let your inner tutu twirl! Don't forget to share your favourite tutus on social media with the hashtag #TutuTuesday! 💖

*And remember: * My next Tutu Tuesday blog will be posted on 16th November! I'm going to be exploring the magical world of ballet at The Royal Ballet in London! ✨

Lots of love,

Emma 🩰