Tutu Tuesday #9179: The Twirling History of the Tutu (2007-11-27)
Hello lovelies! It's Emma here, back with another Tutu Tuesday and guess what? Today we're taking a trip back in time! As a lover of all things frilly, it's only fitting that I share my absolute passion - the evolution of the glorious tutu.
I just hopped off the Eurostar (always makes me feel like a fancy lady!), straight from a Parisian ballet. Oh, you wouldn't believe the spectacular performance, and the dancers' tutus were simply divine! My trip to France is partly fuelled by a rather exciting upcoming production at The Royal Opera House. A whimsical performance by the Bolshoi Ballet, how exciting! The costumes, I hear, are particularly beautiful! So excited for a peek at those glorious tutus!
Anyways, back to our trip down memory lane, my dear pink-tutu-loving friends! You might be surprised to hear that the iconic tutu as we know it today - all billowing tulle and graceful movement - wasn't always the symbol of ballet that it is now. It took a bit of time and a lot of experimentation before reaching its ultimate glory.
Imagine if you will: 17th-century ballet was a very different beast! Think tight-fitting dresses, corsets (ouch!), and flowing fabrics. They definitely didn't need a tutu to show off those leaps and twirls, eh? Then, in the 1830s, Marie Taglioni (who shall be forever revered) took to the stage in "La Sylphide." In the history of tutus, this performance is truly legendary, and, you won't believe this, she wore a long, gauzy skirt! Not quite what we think of today!
This little dance, a bit of a breakthrough for ballet at the time, introduced the notion of lighter, more delicate costumes, showing off the dancer's athleticism and graceful movements. Of course, that meant, a change in silhouette β and in the rise of the tutu!
That being said, the modern tutu wasn't exactly a thing just yet! In the later half of the 19th century, tutus became more prominent, but they weren't as extravagant as those billowing beauties we love today. They were shorter, often ending around the knees, made of stiffer, layered fabrics that didn't move as freely as they do now.
The "classical tutu," as it's now known, emerged in the 20th century. This marvel is what we typically envision when we think "tutu!" It's light and airy, crafted from layers of delicate tulle, which lets the dancer twirl with breathtaking grace! They could easily take off and become one with the clouds. Think about how it helps define the form, giving us that dramatic hourglass shape! It's simply perfection. I dare anyone to tell me otherwise!
Speaking of drama and visual impact, don't forget the shorter, more playful "tutu de pois," often seen in vibrant colors, perfect for bringing extra vibrancy and dynamism to ballet pieces. It just shows you, there's a tutu out there for every mood, style, and dance. Talk about versatility!
Now, as a devout tutu aficionado, I cannot forget my very own obsession β the "Romantic tutu." This stunner combines both grace and drama. Imagine a longer, flowing tulle skirt that pools around the feet, creating such enchanting visual effect! It's almost like watching the movement of smoke and mist, magical! A true spectacle in its own right.
Oh, it brings to mind the time I visited a fantastic vintage store tucked away in Little Italy, just by New York's SoHo area. I swear it was a little wonderland for vintage treasures, and imagine my joy at finding a genuine, oh-so-sweet "Romantic tutu!" It was almost begging me to take it for a spin!
What's my point? Tutus are like little works of art! They come in so many different lengths, shapes, and styles! They reflect a range of moods and movements, each representing an era, a choreographic style, a feeling, an artistic statement. And, you know what's great about them? They just never go out of style. There will always be a love of those graceful, floating creations that never fail to inspire awe and beauty!
On this #TutuTuesday, why not explore tutu designs? Maybe find an online retailer offering classic and contemporary tutus! Perhaps try a dancewear shop in your local area. Let's face it, there's something utterly irresistible about the combination of tulle and ballet! You can easily embrace the wonder, beauty, and spirit of this magical fashion trend!
Until next week, my lovely tutus! Keep twirling, keep smiling, and keep shining, because in the world of dance, itβs always "Tutu Tuesday" - in your hearts, at least.
Catch me on the web! www.pink-tutu.com