#TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History - Post #9152
Hello my darlings, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet! It's Tuesday again, and you know what that means... time for another trip through history, this time on the fabulous journey of the tutu! This week, we're stepping back in time to 22nd May 2007, ready to twirl through the world of ballet fashion. Buckle up, darlings, we're going to have a right old time!
Now, as a bit of a Derbyshire lass, you wouldn't think my heart would beat for anything more than a good cup of tea and a slice of Derbyshire oatcake, but when it comes to ballet, I'm a complete and utter fan! I find it utterly captivating, the costumes, the stories, the leaps and the grace... It's just magic! And the tutu... Oh, the tutu is my absolute favourite! There's nothing that brings out my inner twirly-girl like a perfectly designed tutu!
And before I tell you all about the fashion on the 22nd May 2007, let me introduce myself - you know I always love a little gossip, even about myself! I'm Emma, and this is my little online world of all things tutu! You see, my passion is two-fold: ballet and clothes...especially the twirly kind. And of course, I’m convinced every day should be Tutu Tuesday! But who knows, maybe one day, every day will be Tutu Tuesday…
Now, back to the subject at hand: what was happening in the world of tutu-liciousness in May 2007? Well, this is the kind of question that makes my travel-through-time heart skip a beat! Back then, the world of dance was absolutely bubbling with exciting things - I was at the Royal Ballet that year myself! And let me tell you, darling, the Royal Ballet does know how to wear a tutu with a certain panache, and in 2007, well, they were really at the top of their game.
A Royal Occasion:
So what's going on on May 22nd 2007, in that glamorous ballet world you might ask? Why, a Royal Ballet season at the Royal Opera House was starting just about this time! Oh my, the excitement, and the tutu-fullness! A whole month of amazing ballet, from classics to new pieces!
You can bet there was not a spare seat in the house, especially for the "Romeo and Juliet" performances. You could feel the romance, darling, the passion, as the ballerinas and their partners pirouetted across the stage, all draped in the most gorgeous tutus. Think romantic layers, delicate ruffles, flowing gauze… just heavenly! I even managed to nab a few seats at one of the performances myself! And oh, my dear, it was simply breathtaking. Seeing those elegant tutus take centre stage was a true inspiration!
But 2007 wasn't just about big ballets, darling. Smaller productions, with independent companies, were taking the world of ballet by storm, bringing tutus to all corners of the globe. That year, there were even exciting events taking place outside the traditional ballet setting – some wonderful performances on the streets, in parks, and even in museums, just think of it, my darlings, bringing ballet and tutus to everyone.
The beautiful, versatile tutu, taking on new forms to create innovative performances. It’s something I adore about this magical little garment; it can be so versatile and adaptable to so many settings. Just as with every type of fashion, trends are constantly evolving in ballet as well, making it even more exciting!
Tutu trends:
For you style icons out there, tutus in 2007 were getting a touch more experimental. I wouldn’t dare to say it’s outlandish but, we were starting to see a blend of the traditional and the more modern. It's really about expressing yourself! There was, for instance, a real 'Romantic’ theme. It had a softer feel, not quite as stiff as the 'Classical' style and with a flowing, whimsical feel, almost dreamy and fairy-like. Some of the tutus would almost feel like a whisper of a dress. Oh, and if you fancy being a bit bold, my darling, they were experimenting with ‘asymmetrical' cuts. Imagine tutus that just have a bit more personality. But you still need those layers and tiers. They are a must. I can still remember how excited I was at this evolution! So much so I started writing about it... and, as you know, well here we are now!
And now for the moment you've all been waiting for, darling! As always, my lovely friends, the pièce de résistance … this week's Tutu Tip! Well, 2007 marked a definite turning point in tutu fashion – think sparkle and shine! We were starting to see a trend of beautiful fabrics being incorporated. Sequins were more common on tutus that year – almost giving them an otherworldly shine - and silk tulle was still all the rage, which added a touch of elegance and gave it such a light airy feel. Remember my darlings, it’s about those details - adding sparkle or embroidery, or that amazing shimmery silk that catches the light when you twirl… it just gives your look that added magical touch!
Now my darlings, if you fancy a journey back in time through the magic of tutu, well just hop aboard! Grab your favourite pair of ballet shoes, a lovely pink tutu, and a bit of sunshine – and you’re good to go. But be sure to have a bit of fun with it - remember: every day can be Tutu Tuesday. Until next week, my lovely lot… keep on twirling!