Hello darling dancers!
It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome back to another thrilling Tuesday on the world's most fabulous tutu blog!
I'm absolutely bursting with excitement this week because I've just had the most amazing adventure! I travelled back to November 13th, 2012! I can tell you, the 2010s were a whirl of colour and fashion, darling! And I have to say, I definitely got my fix of shopping and ballet shows while I was there. It's always such a joy to see how the ballet world evolves. And let's not forget the tutus - always a spectacle, don't you think?
Now, I know what you're thinking: "2012? Emma, what on earth were you doing back then?" Well, I was researching the history of the ballet tutu, darling. You see, these darling frothy wonders have been gracing the stage for centuries, and I'm on a mission to uncover all their secrets!
I started my journey at the Royal Opera House, a breathtaking theatre where you can still feel the history of the ballet, even today. It was the perfect starting point for a little peek into the tutu's past.
Do you know that the tutu's evolution started way back in the 1800s with the emergence of Romanticism in ballet? Oh, it was quite the fascinating time!
Romantic ballet placed a greater emphasis on female dancers and their expressiveness, and with that came a change in fashion. Imagine this: Gone were the heavy, restrictive dresses and corsets that hindered movement. Instead, dancers began wearing shorter skirts that gave them greater freedom.
One of the most iconic names in this period is the visionary dancer Marie Taglioni, whose airy, weightless performances captivated audiences around the world. The way she moved, so effortlessly! Simply captivating, my dear. This was where the true evolution of the tutu really began! It became a symbol of ethereal beauty, expressing freedom and movement, darling!
Imagine The Sylph (by Filippo Taglioni) being performed! Marie Taglioni’s original tutu is an icon, a true masterpiece of fabric, with layers and layers of tulle! I was mesmerised, just like everyone in the audience in those times.
During the Victorian era, the tutu underwent even more fascinating changes, becoming tighter and more fitted at the waist. You see, darling, fashion is all about change!
But here's where it gets truly interesting! The 20th century saw a shift to shorter and less bulky tutus, allowing for more fluid, modern movements. It was also a time when some dancers dared to embrace colour and embellishments. Can you imagine! Bright tutus were now gracing the stage. Such a brave, and inspiring moment for the world of ballet!
But let's come back to November 13th, 2012. This date had a special place in my heart, darling, as it was the date of The Nutcracker ballet, one of the most adored ballets, at the Royal Ballet! And you know what, the dancers looked absolutely spectacular in their gorgeous tutus, every movement captivating my attention! I even had a delicious warm hazelnut latte before the performance, surrounded by a truly charming atmosphere at the theatre.
And the 2010s was also a time when a certain trend swept the world – ballet street! And you can be sure, darling, I got my hands on some stylish pieces with a touch of tutu for my own wardrobe, and of course, joined in with all the excitement.
Speaking of ballet, you simply MUST check out this phenomenal ballet website – www.dance.uk.com . It's a real gem! It’s full of information and insights into all the latest happenings in the ballet world, reviews, interviews, news and more! They also offer online classes. Simply wonderful for your tutuing inspiration! Oh, and a secret, dear readers: If you happen to find a fabulous little ballet boutique that sells beautiful tutus in pink – be sure to send me a postcard! 😉
The fun doesn't stop there, darling! I also saw a splendid performance of "Swan Lake", at the English National Ballet. You wouldn't believe it - the graceful movements of the dancers in their white tutus just filled me with wonder. Absolutely stunning.
And now, I can't wait to travel to the next magical place and discover what ballet tutus have been up to! My suitcase is always packed, ready for another incredible adventure, always with my trusty pink tutu in tow!
Remember, dear friends, tutus are for everyone! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just starting out, there's a perfect tutu out there waiting to unleash your inner ballerina! Embrace your femininity, your style, and never stop dancing!
See you next Tuesday, darlings!
Love,
Emma xx
P.S. I’ve found an amazing book that chronicles the history of ballet fashion!
The Great Dance Costume Book, by Ann Hutchinson, is a true gem.
This beautifully written, profusely illustrated book takes us on an insightful journey through centuries of costume development and explores the fascinating relationship between costume and choreography in classical ballet. You should absolutely pick up a copy, darling!
