#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1999-01-05

Hello lovelies! It's your favourite pink-loving ballerina, Emma, back again with another blast from the tutu-filled past for #TutuTuesday!

Today, my time-traveling toes have taken me to a crisp January day in 1999. Can you believe it? We’re talking *NSYNC, Tamagotchis, and dial-up internet! Oh, the memories!

But let’s get back to what truly matters - the evolution of the glorious tutu!

Ballet’s Bouncy Beginning

Remember those Victorian ladies and their cumbersome skirts? Well, imagine trying to leap and twirl in that! Ballet's pioneers needed something a lot more practical. And so, the first tutus were born!

Think layers and layers of tulle, resembling a billowing cloud, rather than the structured tutus we know and love today. Back then, they weren’t just for showing off legs – they actually helped dancers float across the stage. Imagine the wonder! It’s no surprise ballet was so popular back then - everyone was enchanted!

Enter The Romantic Era

Fast forward to the early 1800s, and our tutus start to morph! Think flowing, ethereal styles, like the ones Marie Taglioni famously wore. They had much shorter skirts, showing off the dancer’s elegant limbs – and let’s not forget the revolutionary pointe shoes!

It was all about grace, lightness, and pure romanticism. Ballet became a breathtaking display of movement, and the tutu was right there to make it sing.

The Birth of the ‘Romantic’ Tutu

Here comes our favourite tutu type – the one we associate with the graceful ballerina: the Romantic tutu! This classic design became a timeless beauty. It featured a close-fitting bodice and a full, flared skirt. A design that showed off the beauty of the dancer’s line and the graceful movements. We’ve got to thank Marius Petipa for that! This little beauty first appeared on the stage in 1877 with La Bayadère. Can you believe how much history a simple skirt can hold?

A Blast from the Past: January 5th, 1999

And speaking of history, it’s time to rewind to January 5th, 1999! I had a rather lovely experience in Paris this particular day. Oh, the croissants and the delicious Parisian hot chocolate! And, of course, a visit to the Palais Garnier was in order, where I watched an absolutely spellbinding performance of “The Sleeping Beauty.” I nearly wept with the sheer joy of it all. I know you know how I feel – watching those majestic tutus flit across the stage… simply magical!

It wasn't all tutus though. I found a vintage jewellery shop that was brimming with delicate tiaras – talk about an instant mood-boost! But alas, I was there on a tutu-tastic mission, so after a few admiring glances at sparkling crowns and necklaces, I returned to the theatre.

Back to the Future

We’ve come a long way from those first billowing clouds. Now we’ve got different tutus for every kind of performance! We’ve got tutu skirts, layered tutus, even pancake tutus. There’s something for every occasion and style!

I'm especially partial to the tutu styles of the American Ballet Theatre. That's where I got this incredible vintage pink tulle masterpiece that I'm wearing right now. The colour makes me feel so vibrant. Isn't pink the most delightful colour for expressing sheer joyous energy?!

And for you fashion lovers, let's be honest: you know that the tutu’s popularity is skyrocketing in the fashion world! They’re turning up everywhere!

I’m telling you, from ballet classes to street style to glamorous fashion shows, tutus are everywhere! There’s just something about a tutu that can elevate any outfit. You feel graceful, elegant, and totally ready to twirl!

And now it’s time for you to tell me what’s making you feel that fabulous Tutu Tuesday energy this week?

I know that many of you enjoy a good tutu shopping spree. I did a bit of a vintage spree the other day in London’s famous Portobello Market, so I can understand the lure! Did you pick up a special tutu this week, or are you rocking a new vintage find? Tell us all about it! And don't forget to share your pink tutu moments with me using #TutuTuesday. I’m already imagining your magical twirling moments!

P.S. You know what I think about tutus. Pink ones, in particular. Go on, put on your pink tutu, and embrace your inner ballerina! 🩰💖

Until next week, darling readers!

Emma

www.pink-tutu.com

Post #8715