Greetings, darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, here, and it’s #TutuTuesday! Oh my goodness, I just can’t get over how much I adore this fabulous Tuesday ritual! We all know that a good Tuesday needs a dash of whimsy, a sprinkle of sparkle, and a generous helping of tutus - the ultimate embodiment of grace and elegance. Today, I’m whisking us back in time to September 16th, 2008, to explore the world of the ballet tutu.
Now, imagine this: you’re strolling down the bustling streets of London, maybe grabbing a quick cuppa and a slice of Victoria sponge, when a beautiful, glittering, pastel pink tutu catches your eye. This is exactly the kind of sight that fills my heart with joy! I’m like a little bird in a bright pink nest – that’s the power of a tutu!
It's hard to imagine that the humble tutu has such a long and fascinating history. In 2008, the world of ballet was awash with iconic pieces and extraordinary performances, all spun together by the magic of the tutu. Oh, I was truly living my best life back then.
You know, tutus aren’t just pretty garments. They have a rich story! To understand the evolution of the tutu, you must travel back in time, right alongside me! Picture this - it’s the late 18th century, and ballerinas, often men, wore tights, a long, flowy skirt, and a very full, loose, and wide ‘fichu’, which would resemble a full, pleated ‘skirt’ with its front- and back pleats. It must have been quite the challenge for graceful movements. Imagine, for a moment, dancing in all that fabric! It took a real ballerina!
Well, around the time of Marie Taglioni (a true ballet goddess!), ballerinas ditched the billowing layers of fabric in favour of lighter and more agile wear – the first versions of the ‘tutu’. Imagine Taglioni floating through the air with ease! Such an elegant inspiration, like a whimsical flower dancing on a summer breeze! The ‘tutu’ truly started a fashion revolution!
Now, it's the mid-19th century, and we’ve got two distinct types of tutus: the Romantic tutu and the classical tutu! Think of these tutus as sisters, with different styles and characters. The Romantic tutu, often known as a “bell skirt,” had a wider skirt that gave the ballerina an ethereal, weightless effect - they could twirl and leap with such effortless elegance! Then, the Classical tutu arrived, taking on a more streamlined silhouette - its tiers and layers giving it a sharper and more sophisticated look. Imagine all the beautiful ballet stories they’ve been a part of - like delicate snowflakes swirling in a blizzard!
This journey is absolutely captivating. But, there is so much more! In 2008, the ballet world saw an eclectic mix of creativity. We had modern dancers, embracing their contemporary expressions of movement in sleek and minimalist costumes. I'm always inspired by the courage to try new things, whether that's a bold new colour for your tutu or a daring dance step. And we had our beloved classical ballets, like Swan Lake and Giselle, reinterpreted with a fresh perspective. Who needs diamonds when you've got dazzling tutus to admire, am I right?
Oh, remember when the lovely Misty Copeland, the incredible dancer from America, was making her mark on the world of ballet? She was one of those dancers who broke boundaries and challenged assumptions - and always looked gorgeous, even while pushing the limits. There's nothing better than watching a beautiful dancer express themselves in such a stunning piece of clothing.
This journey through time has really fuelled my love for tutus - they are simply iconic! As the #TutuTuesday spotlight shines upon the elegant ballerina outfit that never fails to take my breath away, it's a moment to appreciate the power of fashion and art, how they influence each other, and how they create something truly magical and unforgettable.
Speaking of the power of fashion, let me tell you about my amazing weekend. I had to journey by train down to London! That's right, darling - I just had to take a trip on the "Tube" (that's what we Brits call our underground!) because I wanted to see the Royal Ballet's newest performance of Giselle, in Covent Garden.
Oh, London! You never cease to amaze me. The city, the fashion, the energy! Even a seasoned time traveller like me feels inspired in this bustling city. But my trip was all about the ballet - watching talented ballerinas grace the stage in their delicate tutus was absolutely mesmerising. It felt as if time itself was dancing alongside them.
The most delightful thing? I stumbled across a shop selling the most fabulous collection of pink tutus you've ever seen! It's true! The colours were stunning - from bubblegum to dusty rose, with a sprinkle of glitter and sequins - everything you could wish for!
Oh my goodness, my trip was a total blast! I am dreaming of a time where all the wonderful people of the world wear tutus! We all could take a step into this wonderful, feminine, fun world! And you can start now! You don't have to wait to go to the ballet, darling, put on your pinkest, most vibrant, twirliest, cutest tutu, go out and have a wonderful, magical day.
That’s my take on #TutuTuesday, dear readers! This week I’ll share even more history from my fabulous travel and adventures in the world of the tutu! Until next Tuesday, remember - life's too short to be serious!
Keep sparkling!
Emma x
P.S. Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com for more updates, tutus, ballet fun, and adventures through time! And use the hashtag #TutuTuesday to show off your fabulous looks, from Victorian tutus to modern ballerina outfits!
