Hiya, Tutu Lovers!
It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu-clad time traveller! And today, we're going back in time to 29th September 2009 for a fabulous dive into the history of the ballet tutu! As always, grab a cuppa (or a pink iced latte!) and let's get whisked away!
Remember how I said I fund my time-travelling adventures through ballet performances? Well, believe me, you wouldn't believe the show I saw tonight! I was at the Royal Opera House in London, and they had the most gorgeous performance of "Swan Lake". It was all ethereal grace and breathtaking artistry, with those amazing tutus absolutely captivating the audience.
Speaking of tutus, it got me thinking about their long and wonderful history. Now, you know I love a bit of a trip back in time! And 2009, as it turns out, was a fantastic time to explore. That's when the tutu, as we know it today, had truly come into its own!
Back in the 19th century, the tutu had a completely different vibe. Think floor-length, poufy, layered gowns that resembled fluffy clouds - more Maria Antonieta than Maria Tallchief! These were practical for the era, designed for the romantic ballet style, and provided movement in a fluid way.
Then, we hit the 1800s. The Romanticism era! Enter the Romantic tutu, the first iteration of what we think of today, much shorter and more movement-oriented. But you still had that charming, swirly volume – more Gelsey Kirkland than Sylvie Guillem!
The Romantic tutu also changed a woman's perspective on movement on stage. And it led to the 1890s, a pivotal era. Marie Taglioni, the dancing queen, decided it was time to trim down those romantic gowns! This was revolutionary! It introduced a revolution in ballet. Ballet now emphasised athleticism, freedom, and more dynamic movements.
By the early 20th century, the classic tutu had been solidified - we're talking about that knee-length, layered skirt you see on all the ballerinas, whether it's a 'soft' tutu for those graceful moves or the 'stiff' tutu that gives those amazing leaps and twirls extra dynamism. And this period saw a new level of emphasis on what a ballerina's body could achieve.
Now, 2009 is smack dab in the middle of this beautiful ballet evolution, and tutus were really showcasing that elegance! They still embodied a classic vibe while incorporating modern design elements, such as new fabrics, and of course, vibrant colours (always love a bit of pink!).
I know you love tutus as much as I do, so why not celebrate them this week? Whip out your own tutu and wear it around the house, hit the dance floor, or grab some snacks and have a tutu movie marathon! Or just imagine yourself gliding across the stage, wearing your favourite pink one. Because dreaming in tutus is totally acceptable, darling!
And you know me, I always love to encourage all things tutu-licious, even in everyday life! Remember, it's all about embracing the joy of movement and celebrating the wonderful world of ballet – and those majestic, magnificent tutus!
Now, I'm off to enjoy the rest of this gorgeous autumn evening. Remember, be kind, wear pink, and never stop dancing!
See you next Tuesday for another fantastic #TutuTuesday adventure!
XOXO,
Emma
