Hello my darlings! Welcome back to another edition of #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on www.pink-tutu.com! As always, Iâm your host, Emma, your time-traveling ballerina and devoted devotee of the pink tutu.
Itâs a beautiful Tuesday, isnât it? The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and Iâve got a brand new pink tutu that Iâm just itching to twirl in! Today we're journeying back to 29th May 2012. It's an exciting time! Let's grab a spot in my imaginary pink time-traveling carriage, tuck into a dainty cuppa, and let's get swirling!
The Year of the Ballet Boom
2012 was a phenomenal year for ballet! We had the incredible âStrictly Come Dancingâ with its flamboyant costumes, the inspiring Olympic Games (a truly beautiful spectacle) and the joyous celebration of the Queenâs Jubilee, full of regal pageantry. And then, there was the ever-growing global fascination with all things ballet, thanks in part to âBlack Swanâ, a thrilling and powerful movie that had us all on the edge of our seats (and probably rushing to the nearest dance shop to snag our very own tutus!).
Tutus for All
Itâs amazing to see how tutus have become such a versatile and iconic part of modern fashion. Weâre seeing them pop up everywhere, from fashion runways to the streets, from everyday life to fancy-dress parties! It's clear that the tutu has truly evolved from a symbol of classic ballet to a global trend that everyone can enjoy. And as the iconic symbol of the world of ballet, they really do make a statement, whatever the occasion!
Back in Time
Now, letâs step back to 2012. The tutu of the time, my dears, was all about elegant, romantic lines, flowy fabric and exquisite embellishments. They were a mix of classic elegance and modern trends, like using metallics or bold prints to create striking combinations that were anything but boring!
Think of âSwan Lakeâ with its ethereal tulle, and imagine the beauty of a black velvet tutu adorned with a cascading, silver-fringed bodice.
But 2012 was a year that began to push boundaries. The popularity of modern ballet companies like Birmingham Royal Ballet and Scottish Ballet meant that dancers embraced the innovative styles and costumes, often challenging the classic vision of the tutu, with contemporary dancewear reflecting modern ballet, featuring flowing pieces, and structured, even sculptural designs, creating breathtaking silhouettes.
A New Tutu World
If youâre interested in dipping your toes into the tutu history pool (and honestly, who isn't?), I suggest a quick trip to your local ballet archives! Many hold fantastic collections of vintage tutus, providing a fascinating look at the evolution of the costume.
However, the tutu of 2012 was not just confined to the ballet world, it was making its mark in the wider world of fashion. There was a beautiful blend of classic ballerina elegance and edgy street style with designers from all over the world including, of course, my favourites in the capital city, incorporating tutus into their designs - think elegant silk gowns, daring denim pieces, and eye-catching evening wear.
You wouldn't believe the looks! Celebrities on the red carpet would strut in shimmering, tiered tutu skirts that transformed classic pieces into dramatic showstoppers.
My 29th May 2012 Inspiration
Of course, my trip in my pink time-travelling carriage never takes me to a single spot without a little shopping. Itâs an absolute joy, watching fashion trends unfold and getting my hands on vintage finds to complete my collection! My trip to 29th May 2012 was a special one, with a certain shop in Notting Hill attracting my attention with its selection of handcrafted tutus. I even found a delightful pale pink satin number that I immediately bought, its luxurious softness tempting me to waltz around the shop, imagining a glamorous Parisian evening!
The Journey Back Home
The whistle of my trusty train carriage bringing me back to Derbyshire from my time-traveling adventure filled my heart with contentment. Back home, my favourite spot is to be found twirling and dipping around in my personal ballerina studio, lost in a world of classical ballet music and romantic tunes, as I think of my #TutuTuesday journey.
Do join me next Tuesday, darling, as I transport you back to yet another fascinating time in the captivating story of the ballet tutu, one tutu and one whimsical journey at a time!
And until then, keep twirling, keep sparkling, and always keep the pink tutu spirit alive!
See you next week, darlings,
Emma xx
