Hello, darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, here! Today is #TutuTuesday, which means we’re going on a whimsical trip through history to explore the evolution of our beloved tutus!
Today, September 14th, 2010, finds me in London, England, surrounded by the buzz of this exciting metropolis! The streets are filled with fashionistas sporting the latest trends, and the air crackles with creativity. Of course, there’s no place like London for a passionate ballerina like me. The Royal Opera House is a must-visit, and I just adore the iconic performances by the Royal Ballet – a true inspiration!
Speaking of inspiration, let’s journey back in time, shall we? Let’s explore the delightful history of the tutu, an iconic piece of attire that has captivated the hearts of audiences for centuries!
Our story starts in the 16th century. Yes, darling, that's centuries ago! Can you imagine wearing a tutu then? The Crinolines were the stars of the show. These vast skirts were made from heavy layers of fabric – think like an elaborate petticoat – and, if I’m honest, they would probably make a modern ballerina fall flat on her face! It’s like the first clumsy steps of a new born ballerina.
But then came the 19th century, the century where our lovely tutu took its first dainty steps onto the stage. The iconic Romantic Tutu was born. This graceful, lightweight garment, featuring multiple layers of tulle, took flight on the stages of the Parisian opera. It allowed ballerinas to finally move freely and show off those beautiful grand jetés and breathtaking fouettés.
Fast forward to the 20th century and the tutu’s transformation continues! It went from ethereal to dynamic with the arrival of the Classical Tutu, it was like adding a burst of colour to a timeless portrait. Shorter and fuller, with its focus on shape and design, this iconic garment gave rise to a whole new world of ballet moves! Think the iconic chassé, piqué turns, and the delightful soutenu!
By 2010, darling, tutus are evolving still! We are in the era of the Neoclassical Tutu, a testament to modern design and artistic freedom. Experimenting with diverse silhouettes and a fusion of modern materials, the tutu keeps breaking boundaries. From minimalist designs that celebrate fluidity to elaborate structures that challenge expectations, the contemporary tutu is a true artistic masterpiece, reflecting the evolution of dance and fashion.
So what’s a time travelling ballet enthusiast to do with a whole blog to fill and a love for the tutu?! We get out those sewing needles and ribbons and we create our own! A sparkly, pastel, feminine delight - the tutu is a piece of theatre that needs a little glitter, a touch of glamour and all the colour you can find, my darlings!
Onwards we twirl to more #TutuTuesday blog posts! You can read last week’s blog on the tutu of the French Royal Ballet, it’s one you don't want to miss! Let me know what you think about today's blog by leaving a comment below - every ballerina deserves to share her thoughts! Remember, darling, the magic of a tutu is all around us! Join me again next Tuesday as we delve deeper into the world of tutus on www.pink-tutu.com. Until next week, may your life be filled with twirls and delightful moments!
With love,
Emma
P.S. I’ll be taking the train up to Yorkshire this week. The moors are calling to a ballet enthusiast with an affinity for history - we must never forget where it all began! Yorkshire has the biggest collection of old, historic ballets – I may even see a few crinolines along the way! I shall be back with my tales next Tuesday, darling.
#TutuTuesday #ballet #tutu #timetravel #fashion #balletlife #PinkTutu
