Post 9168
Hello lovelies! It's Emma, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, back with another #TutuTuesday journey into the wonderful world of ballet and its magnificent, fluttering companions â tutus! This week, we're stepping back in time, specifically to 11th September 2007, which, funnily enough, was actually a Tuesday, so it's perfectly aligned with our Tutu Tuesday theme. How convenient, right?
You know how much I love a good train journey, and let me tell you, the one I took this time was breathtaking! The carriage windows offered glimpses of rolling fields and ancient forests, and as the train steamed onwards, I found myself reflecting on the history of the ballet tutu itself â what a beautiful, elegant garment, embodying both lightness and strength.
Before I tell you all about my 2007 travels, letâs do a quick tutu twirl back through the decades, shall we?
Tutu Timeline - From Early Beginnings to Fashionable Must-Haves
Believe it or not, the tutuâs journey to stardom wasnât always a smooth one. Imagine dancers of the 1700s and early 1800s in those bulky skirts â restrictive and not exactly made for leaping across the stage!
The first whispers of the tutu's rise to fame began around the 1830s, with Marie Taglioni, an absolute icon of her time. It's thought that it was during a performance of "La Sylphide" in 1832 that the "romantic tutu", or what we'd recognise today as a longer, more graceful, knee-length version, truly captivated the audiences.
It wasnât until the end of the 19th century, thanks to the genius of the great choreographer Marius Petipa, that the âclassical tutuâ made its grand debut. Picture the shorter, poofy tulle layers that we adore in classic ballets like Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty! Talk about a transformative design, huh? It wasnât just a practical design change; it revolutionised the way dancers could move.
As we went through the 20th century, the tutu went from being a ballet essential to becoming a fashion symbol! You canât go to a major city in the world and not find a tutu-inspired outfit on the catwalks.
Now, I canât promise you I'll be that daring in 2007 (though you never know!). But, to answer your question - yes, tutus are definitely still the stars of the ballet world. They're what make these delicate and powerful movements possible and, let's be honest, theyâre utterly stunning!
My Tutu Time Travel Adventures - 11th September 2007
Fashion Shopping Spree: As I stepped out of the station in 2007, I was immediately caught up in a whirl of 21st century bustle, with a bit more flair than we have today, I think! Think colourful storefronts with dazzling displays and lots of trendy boutiques. Honestly, the fashion back then was an absolute dream! Youâd find so much inspiration - I'm talking statement jewellery, vibrant textures, and those wonderful wide-leg jeans - whatâs not to love? And of course, so many amazing fabrics. Oh, the silk and the lace... I just love that kind of classic, stylish elegance!
I headed to a shop with this beautiful, quirky interior with a whole wall dedicated to tutus. Now, Iâm not talking about the classic ballerina tutus; these were fashion tutus, you know the kind - bright colours, funky fabrics, and so much whimsy! The owner, who was an absolute darling, told me theyâre becoming super trendy for festival wear - what a perfect way to add a touch of magic to any festival, right?
A Touch of Ballet Magic: Of course, no trip into the world of 2007 would be complete without experiencing the magic of ballet. As a matter of fact, I managed to snag tickets to The Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House in London. Imagine: grand architecture, sweeping chandeliers, and the most intricate costumes! And, of course, the dancers! Absolutely magnificent â grace, artistry, and those incredible leaps. It was absolutely thrilling! I especially loved the scene where Aurora's prince sweeps her onto the stage - it's so full of magic and hope.
Travel Diary Musings: Back in my own time, as Iâm settling in to write this post (after my lovely train journey, naturally!), I'm reminded how truly lucky we are to have so much access to different forms of ballet, from classical shows like the one I saw to experimental dance companies and even ballet street - street dance inspired by ballet! Whoâd have thought it, eh? I think itâs important for ballet to be for everyone - all ages, shapes and sizes, whether it's a traditional ballet or a ballet inspired interpretation.
I truly believe the spirit of ballet is for everyone! So let's embrace all the tutus, from those graceful romantic tutu interpretations, to the shorter classic tutu and even those gorgeous, flowing fashion ones. The power and grace of the dance shines through regardless. It's a constant reminder of what dreams and dedication can create.
#TutuTuesday Challenge: What are your favourite ballet tutus, lovelies? Tell me about them in the comments below. And, remember, I encourage everyone to try on a tutu! A pink one, preferably đ
Love always,
Emma x x x
