Hello darlings! It's Emma here, back with another #TutuTuesday journey into the glorious world of ballet history and the magical tutu! I’ve just arrived back from a fabulous trip through the swirling mists of time, landing in the City of Lights, Paris - ooh la la! – right on September 12th, 2000. I’ve been to so many ballets this week, the tutus were spectacular! The dancing – divine. You just can't beat a Parisian ballet, can you?
So let's delve into the world of the tutu on this #TutuTuesday! The year is 2000 and, believe me, the tutu is still very much in fashion.
Tutu Times 2000
Right now, we're in the heart of the ballet boom! Think “The Red Shoes,” think Moira Shearer, think Rudolf Nureyev – it’s a glorious golden era of dance, all thanks to a little bit of tutu magic.
Let me tell you, the ballet world in 2000 is fizzing with excitement, a swirling mix of tradition and a burst of new, innovative steps, daring designs, and – my favourite! – an explosion of different tutu styles. It's just incredible to see.
The classical tutu is still the queen bee. Those exquisite, billowing layers of tulle are so dramatic and breathtaking - and still oh-so-romantic! Imagine swirling on stage with yards and yards of tulle – a tutu princess's dream. This year saw ballerinas everywhere wearing the classic tutu in beautiful new designs: softer layers, lighter fabrics, and, in some companies, an explosion of colour – bright pinks and greens were quite the sensation. But the classic look is definitely the heart and soul of a ballet, don't you think?
Of course, it wouldn’t be the year 2000 without the modern tutu making a bold statement, too! It’s all about the unexpected. This modern tutu is so fun, full of movement, so bold and so extra! We’re seeing bold shapes and even experimental fabrics. There’s even been a trend of fewer layers – just imagine a dancer soaring across the stage with one, almost bare, tulle skirt! A dramatic departure from the classic layered designs.
And this is why I love ballet so much. You have those beautiful, iconic designs – the ones that just make your heart soar, with every layer, every twirl - the classics! And you also have those super modern, inventive designs – just the most wonderfully surprising, daring creations! The dance world, my darlings, is in constant creative bloom, forever pushing the boundaries.
But there's another wonderful surprise. Ballet's impact is growing bigger than ever in 2000. It's not just in the theatres anymore – tutus are being spotted everywhere. That’s because in 2000 there was an incredible burst of ‘ballet street' fashion – a total love affair with the dance look, but out on the streets!
Tutus On The Street!
This is where it gets really exciting. People were seeing tutus on the streets everywhere! It's such a breath of fresh air, the sheer joy of a tutu, those billowing layers of tulle! Now, my fashion radar went completely wild, because you can definitely say ballet was starting to influence mainstream fashion back then.
For example, tutus started appearing in pop videos – and I must say, I thought that was a wonderful way to expose new audiences to this gorgeous and expressive dance form!
Also, the 'tutu trend’ meant ballerina skirts in different forms were appearing everywhere, and with such glamour and confidence. Just think how exciting that is - wearing ballet on the streets! A gorgeous mix of comfort and class! A truly joyful look!
So – how about you all, dear darlings? Have you tried incorporating ballet styles into your fashion? You really should – go for it! We all have an inner ballerina inside. And, who knows? Perhaps, even the most surprising item could inspire you. My mission? To turn every girl into a pink tutu girl. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll even turn everyone on Earth into a tutu-wearing fashionista!
The Eiffel Tower – Ballet at its Best
Today, here in Paris, it’s un peu rainy – not the usual romantic, sunny Parisian afternoon – but a great excuse to head indoors, and, naturally, what better place to enjoy a spectacular tutu display than the Palais Garnier!
You see, there are those special moments where a dance and a place combine to create magic. Just standing here, beneath the ornate grand archway, I feel a sense of enchantment. Ballet in this city… is pure magic!
The Palais Garnier, darling – you just have to see it to understand – is breathtaking! There's so much history, so much beauty in those elegant balconies, ornate sculptures, crystal chandeliers... just perfect. And the music… the orchestra is breathtaking! A swirling storm of emotions!
My dear darlings, I’m so full of inspiration today. The tutu is everywhere, but there’s something about seeing it in a beautiful setting – especially under a grand French roof! So why don’t you start thinking about a trip to Paris, or just to your local ballet school or performance. It's a truly fantastic way to add a touch of ballerina magic to your week!
Speaking of adding some magic, I’ve picked up the most beautiful feather boa, so I'll be styling it into a gorgeous tutu accessory. You just have to get a touch of flair!
Now, darlings, please do comment below and share your thoughts and stories about your favorite tutu memories and all those fashion looks you’ve spotted! I’d love to hear what you think. And maybe, just maybe, tell me your ultimate favourite ballet tutu – or, perhaps, tell me the most amazing pink tutu you’ve ever seen! Until next week, I'm signing off to do some window shopping! I simply cannot leave Paris without a new pink tutu, or three.
Sending a sprinkle of Parisian ballet magic!
Emma x
