Helloooo lovelies! It's your favourite tutu-loving time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back for another #TutuTuesday! As always, I'm whisked back in time to bring you the latest in ballet tutu history, straight from the source! Today's trip has brought me to a rather fascinating place and time... the glamorous world of London, September 2013!
Let's hop on the London Underground (who can resist those bright red trains!) and go straight to the heart of the action: Covent Garden, of course! It's just brimming with energy. I think Londoners have this wonderful way of moving at a fast pace without ever seeming stressed. Just how I like to move when I'm rehearsing my grand jetés! 😉
And the fashion, darling! You can spot a mix of vintage styles and chic modern looks that are all perfectly pulled together. Of course, every time I'm in London, I simply have to pop into Liberty London. It's just a treasure trove of exquisite fabrics, pretty accessories, and whimsical finds. If they had a "Pink Tutu Department," I would probably live there! 💖
The 2013 Tutu Scene:
So, what's the de rigeur style for tutus back in 2013? Well, they're absolutely all about structure and precision! Imagine intricate pleating and perfectly defined shapes, a little more fitted than some of the softer, flowing tutus from earlier eras. It's the perfect complement to the dynamic and technically demanding choreography you're likely to see at the Royal Ballet or the English National Ballet this year.
And speaking of Royal Ballet... It's almost impossible to mention London's dance scene without thinking about the Royal Opera House. This year, they've been staging a magical production of The Sleeping Beauty. Oh, it was absolutely divine! The dancers are pure poetry in motion, and the tutus for the Act III Fairy variation? Simply exquisite!
They’re those gorgeous, full, tiered skirts with intricate, hand-stitched patterns that make your heart flutter just thinking about them. They are truly a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftspeople who make them, like real-life fairies working their magic on those gossamer-thin fabrics!
Now, speaking of fairies, it just wouldn't be #TutuTuesday without a little bit of fantasy! Today I found myself browsing some of the amazing antique shops that dot the Covent Garden area. Tucked away on a charming, cobbled side street, I came across a shop full of Victorian dolls and their beautiful tiny tutus! They’re crafted from silks and lace with delicate embroidery, a bit like the ones I found from 1870s. So much artistry goes into those wee tiny outfits, don’t you think?
Making My Mark:
Of course, I wouldn't miss the chance to try on some fabulous pieces from the fashion scene, even in 2013! My latest discovery? An absolute stunner: a light pink tutu with shimmering sequins that practically shimmer with light! Imagine twirling under the chandeliers in Covent Garden with that skirt around me. I'm planning to try a few dance moves with this one in my next post... maybe even a couple of spins to show off its movement!
And you know what else is magical about travelling back in time? It reminds me why we’re all so enchanted by ballet! Every tutu, every spin, every plié… it's a little piece of history coming alive before our eyes. So, why not take a moment this #TutuTuesday to appreciate the power of dance and the beauty of these magical skirts?
Let me know what you love about ballet and tutus down in the comments below. Remember to join me next #TutuTuesday when we’ll be diving into the vibrant and colourful tutu history of another magical place and time.
* Until next week, my fellow tutu lovers, remember… *
Tutus are for everyone. Go forth and wear a pink one! 💖
Yours in Twirls,
Emma
* www.pink-tutu.com *
