Hello my darlings!
It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another #TutuTuesday! As you all know, I am absolutely obsessed with tutus, so it’s a delight to share the history of this iconic piece of ballet wear with you. Today I’ve zipped back to 2010. What was going on in the world? Well, let me tell you…
The biggest thing, of course, is the wedding of the year: Prince William and Kate Middleton are tying the knot! Can you imagine being invited to a wedding like that?! It’s enough to make even a hardened Tutuista like me weak at the knees! I’m certain their outfits are going to be divine – can't wait to get my hands on those Vogue magazines!
Speaking of weddings, my trip here coincided with the launch of the stunning "Pretty Ballerinas" brand. Oh my gosh, their shoes! A total dream come true, they’ve been added to my wishlist immediately. I think they will look utterly divine paired with a blush-coloured tulle tutu, and I've been doing some online shopping! They say a ballerina never steps out of style – and, I have to agree with that.
Of course, no journey back in time would be complete without catching a fantastic ballet performance! I was so lucky to see Giselle at The Royal Opera House in London. Just spectacular! The ethereal tutus floating across the stage are simply breathtaking. Did you know that the original tutus, way back in the early 19th century, were only worn in the ballet La Sylphide – but their popularity has only soared since then! They have really evolved, haven't they? Now we see all kinds of tutus: long, short, frilly, even tutu-skirts with the odd pocket or two!
Where are we on this journey through the timeline?
Today’s topic is: How Did The Tutu Become The Dress Of Every Little Princess?
From my personal experience, tutus are not just an essential garment for ballet, but they're part of a cultural movement. Tutued princesses are not confined to fairytales. We are everywhere! As far as I'm concerned, tutus are the perfect embodiment of joy and elegance, whether they're being twirled across a stage or around your local park.
The evolution of the tutu has been just as magical as the stories they often inspire. Back in the day, when ballet took its first tentative steps onto the world stage, ballerinas danced in a simple dress with layers and layers of frilly undergarments. Honestly, it sounds hot and completely impractical! Imagine trying to turn in that much fabric! Fortunately, this evolved into what we know and love today. I even have my very own pink satin-lined tulle tutu for everyday wear. My mother says, “That one’s probably not suitable for the shopping trolley queue.” But what she doesn't understand is that every day should be an opportunity to express oneself with a bit of joy!
Now, I hear some of you out there wondering how exactly did this glorious piece of dancewear take the leap from the theatre to every little girl's fantasy? Let’s rewind a little bit, shall we?
A Little Tutu Time Travel
In the mid-19th century, the Romantic Ballet period blossomed with its ethereal storylines, graceful movement, and, yes, the glorious tulle tutu. These tutus, known as the "Romantic Tutu" were often very long and flowing, cascading down in soft layers of tulle, creating the visual effect of wispy clouds swirling in a soft breeze. Talk about ballet magic!
The mid 20th century saw the "Classical Tutu", short and stiff, accentuating the elegant lines and poses of classical ballet. This period also saw the popularity of the tutus exploding beyond the realm of the theatre! You see, the Tutu was a symbol of elegance, femininity, and artistry, which made it the perfect dress-up costume for little girls. As these "Classical" tutus came to be made in vibrant colours, more and more families started embracing this trend.
A Tutu doesn't even need to be white anymore. We now see all shades and patterns: sparkling pink, emerald green, polka dotted, glitter sprinkled – just everything imaginable. Who could resist that?!
I always have the time of my life looking through old photos of iconic dancers. Just like a glimpse into a past life. Just one of my favourite discoveries on this journey through the world of the tutu is The "Romantic Tutu", a gorgeous dress that evokes an enchanting and fairytale-like beauty. When you think about your childhood and your favourite fairytales, does the Tutu pop into your head too? For me, a pink tutu embodies all things dreamy and wonderful. It reminds us that, just like in a fairytale, anything is possible if we believe and embrace the joy of imagination.
Remember my dears, life isn't all about grand performances. It's about the simple joy of twirling. I wear my tutu because it represents the lightness, beauty, and endless possibility of a world that I would love everyone to embrace. Don’t be afraid to make your everyday life a magical adventure, a little bit more colourful and full of wonder!
*Oh, and before I forget - this weekend I’m going to *Les Misérables in London. A whole show dedicated to love, compassion, and forgiveness? Oh my word, I’m absolutely dying to see it, and it would be the perfect opportunity to wear a pink Tutu-skirt. Let me know if you fancy joining me for a pre-show cocktail - it would be such a fab tutu-twirling occasion! **
*Keep those tutu-shaped dreams coming and remember to check in next week for more exciting adventures into the fascinating world of Tutu History! *
Until next time, darlings, stay sparkling and glamorous. Don’t forget to #TutuTuesday, and let’s make the world a more fabulous place – one pink tutu at a time!
Emma
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www.pink-tutu.com
