Hiya darlings! Itâs your favourite tutu-loving time traveller, Emma, back with another Tuesday dose of #TutuTuesday history!
Grab a cuppa, pull up a comfy seat (a feather boa optional, but encouraged!), and get ready to travel back in time with me. Today, weâre stepping into the whirlwind of 16th May 2000 - just imagine, the dawn of the new millennium, the world buzzing with possibility. I'd just finished pirouetting on stage at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. (Oh, what a night!)
And I just have to tell you, you wonât believe what I discovered.
You know I love my ballet, right? And nothing beats the thrill of a live show. The costumes, the choreography, the feeling of magic! But thereâs more to it than meets the eye. Itâs a journey through time! The history of the tutu itself, my lovelies, is fascinating.
From Simple to Sensational: Tracing the Tutuâs Transformation
Youâd be surprised to learn that tutus werenât always the glamorous billowing skirts we associate them with. They started simple â think about it! Back in the 18th century, ballerinas would dance in calf-length, elegant skirts called crinolines. But that was just the beginning.
Enter the 19th century, and we see the start of the dramatic evolution. The romantische era (a truly romantic time!) favoured lighter fabrics and soft lines, the skirt just skimming the knee. It was the epitome of grace, perfectly reflecting the romantic sensibility of the era.
Now, this is where it gets exciting: Marie Taglioni stepped into the limelight. Imagine a wisp of a dancer, pirouetting in a shimmering, cloud-like, white tulle skirt. THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is what launched the âclassic tutuâ into existence. Suddenly, the stage was filled with wisps of billowing tulle, a spectacle of elegance and fluidity. This design? A masterpiece. It defined elegance.
But the tutu wasnât satisfied with just that! It continued to evolve. The Romantic tutu made way for the shorter, bell-shaped tutu around the 1880s - which is when, yes, my dear tutuphile friends, we start to see the tutu you and I love so much today.
A Whirlwind of Fabric: Exploring Tutu Variety
Youâd think there's one style of tutu, wouldn't you? Wrong! It's more like a fashion feast!
We have the Romantic tutu, light and airy, the perfect canvas for graceful dancing, often called the âsoftâ tutu. The bell tutu, more fitted around the hips, creates a dramatic, sweeping silhouette â think elegant and classic, like a bell-shaped flower in full bloom. Then, there's the Platter tutu, a magnificent burst of circular beauty - all about that dramatic, showstopping look! Think full-on ballerina magic, my friends.
Now, if youâre looking for pure dramatic flair, nothing compares to the Tutu de Poile. These beauties are built with a stiffer structure. Imagine a stiff layer of tulle creating a wafting, structured, magical, ethereal, swirling silhouette! That's it! Pure dance enchantment.
Speaking of structure, thereâs the âpagodaâ - a tutu created for specific dance steps, adding structure to the silhouette with its structured, layered design. Think intricate steps and beautiful lines! This is when you realise that the tutu isnât just a fashion piece, it's a partner in the dance!
Fashion for Every Body: A Tutu for Every Occasion!
My dear fashionistas, what truly blows my mind is the versatility of the tutu. I mean, yes, they look stunning on stage, no doubt about it! But it doesnât stop there!
Think street style, think contemporary wear, think everyday fun! Itâs time to step away from those old traditions!
We can mix it up! Tutus for fashion shows? Absolutely! A pink tulle tutu, a statement, with a cropped denim jacket? A touch of rebellion meets ballet, the perfect mix. For the ultimate pop-up picnic in the park, try a tutu over a denim shirt or t-shirt - effortless, comfy and with that signature "ooh-la-la". For a romantic evening out, team a classic black tutu with a chic top â think classic with a dash of mischief.
Remember, every outfit is a chance to express yourself! A little tutu magic? I think not. Itâs a MUST.
Let's Celebrate the Tutu!
Let's keep it short and sweet today, darling. I know how much you love the tutu - it's your lucky day, it's tutu day - but I promise more thrilling tutu history and style tips coming your way every Tuesday! Remember to stay in touch and join me for more tutuful explorations of this most magical, versatile garment!
Now, get out there, be daring, and rock that tutu! It's time to let your inner ballerina shine, my lovelies. And donât forget, spread the word: every day can be Tutu Tuesday!
Till next time,
Emma. xx
P.S: Whatâs happening on 16th May, you ask? Well, as luck would have it, the Queen, God bless her, is getting married! But before you get all carried away, darling, itâs her great granddaughterâs wedding! Princess Beatrice is marrying Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in a gorgeous outdoor ceremony, something like something straight out of a fairytale. I know I wouldâve worn a tutu! Can you imagine the photographs?
Remember, my dear, thereâs always time to grab a tutu and twirl around - a little tutu joy for a royal celebration. You wouldn't believe the tutu scene right now - the entire nation is in a flurry! Itâs tutu-licious, really.
P.P.S: Have you booked your ticket to the Royal Opera House? What better way to celebrate the magic of the ballet? See you there, you gorgeous thing, with your tutu in hand! It's time for another incredible ballet experience. This time? I'm headed to Italy! Fancy a ride on my trusty Orient Express?
Ciao Bella! xx
