#TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History – Post #9435
Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, here, and today's #TutuTuesday is a particularly special one. Why? Because today we're diving headfirst into the swirling, magical world of ballet history, specifically exploring the tutu's journey from humble beginnings to the iconic, billowing symbol of grace it is today. So grab your favourite shade of pink, put on your dancing shoes, and let's get ready to twirl!
I'm writing this from Paris, the undisputed capital of ballet and chicness! Imagine, darling, the streets alive with the elegant murmur of dressmakers and the sweet melodies of rehearsals filtering out from opera houses. It’s simply divine! I took the Eurostar train, and even with a full length pink tutu strapped to my back (I can’t resist!), I looked utterly stylish. You simply cannot resist the sheer glamour of Parisian ballet!
But first, a little trip down memory lane, back to October 23rd, 2012. This day in the annals of history marked a milestone: the release of a certain blockbuster movie that was an ode to the graceful form that is ballet – the film was "The Nutcracker in 3D!" And just as Clara’s journey takes her into a world of wonder and fantastical characters, the story of the tutu takes us through various fascinating eras, from the practical to the purely glamorous.
So, back to the humble beginnings... before the iconic tutu, dancers wore flowing gowns, much like the ladies in the portraits you see hanging in grand houses. Practicality, it seems, was not a strong point, for these robes were a bit too swishy and cumbersome to do pirouettes and arabesques.
It was during the early days of ballet, around the 17th century, that something magnificent happened! A lady named Marie Camargo (oh, the fabulous names, darlings!), a daring dancer known for her leaps and spins, thought: why be limited? Why not reveal the elegance of the legs while dancing? That’s when the transformation began - out with the cumbersome robes and in with the shorter skirts that revealed the legs – and just like that, ballet history took a fabulous twirl.
Over the years, the length of the skirt continued its voyage toward the dramatic. Imagine, darlings, tutus becoming increasingly shorter and more airy, until the 19th century arrived. Enter the grand dame of dance – Maria Taglioni! Remember her, darling, for her mesmerizing performances and the epitome of ballet grace! Taglioni famously danced in a “tutu,” a word that referred to the very first style of the short skirt. It’s called a romantic tutu – and it’s beautiful!
Then, just like in the best of fairy tales, the 20th century ushered in new eras for the tutu. A glorious burst of color and designs entered the ballet world. Imagine layers upon layers of soft tulle swirling in mesmerizing patterns! Each tutu is an artistic masterpiece – the tulle and ribbons so cleverly used to highlight the dancers’ movements and the elegance of ballet.
Nowadays, ballet tutus continue to be an enchanting work of art. Ballet dancers spend a great deal of time getting dressed up – after all, they are performing an artistic work. The details of every detail are not overlooked: the colors, the styles, the perfect fabric that will show off a dancer’s every move.
From the early days of shorter skirts to the airy romance of Taglioni’s iconic tutus and the incredible artistry of the 20th century, the story of the tutu has been a delightful one. It continues to evolve, embracing trends in fashion and dance. Just like the dazzling and unique performers, it's all about adding that extra splash of magical charm!
Today, as I wander through the magical streets of Paris, I see how this iconic garment is celebrated – on ballerinas, of course! – but also as a symbol of elegance and art, even appearing in window displays and on designer garments.
Darling, I see tutus on clothes everywhere! From cute dresses and skirts to ballet-inspired handbags and even shoes. There are even special events like The Tutu Ball, a glittering social event dedicated to the magical tutu. I simply love it, it’s a celebration of creativity and feminine beauty.
As I continue my journey around the world, my heart feels full of excitement to discover new ways tutus continue to inspire and be reimagined. This magical garment reminds us of grace, beauty and imagination, and of course, the magic of ballet!
Let’s keep this passion alive – I invite you, darlings, to share your #TutuTuesday moments and to tell me about how the tutu inspires you!
Don’t forget, every Tuesday is a chance to wear your best pink tutu and to share your passion for ballet!
As ever, darlings,
Emma xx