#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 2016-08-16

Hello my darling dancers and fashionistas! It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller, back for another #TutuTuesday adventure! Today we're going back in time to 16th August 2016, a date bursting with ballerinas and all things fabulous!

Now, I know you lovely lot are dying to hear about the exciting news for this particular date – but hold your horses, my dears! Before we jump into the glittery delights of 2016, let's take a little stroll down memory lane, shall we?

So, what even IS a tutu? Well, darlings, this isn't your granny's nightgown, this is an object of sheer grace and beauty! This whimsical garment evolved from the voluminous skirts of 18th-century ballet dancers, evolving from the “basque” of the 1700s into the short and multilayered frothy creation we know and love today.

But this dance of transformation didn’t happen overnight. It's a captivating tale spanning centuries! Just picture it:

• 1832 – Romantic Ballet bursts onto the scene! Imagine dreamy fairies flitting across the stage in graceful flounces! This paved the way for the tutu to become the darling of the dance world!

• 1839 – The "La Sylphide" premiere! This iconic ballet set a new standard for tutus. With delicate white layers cascading around the dancers' legs, they glided like ethereal beings. It was utterly breathtaking, and, my darlings, this is where we truly start to see the tutus of today.

• 1880s – We see tutus go from "grand" to "petite"! The ballerina's graceful legs began to take centre stage. Shortening the tutu emphasized their movement, showcasing the intricate steps. Imagine those beautiful little jumps and leaps!

• 20th Century – Oh, the glamour! As the centuries roll by, the tutu flourishes. We get innovative fabrics, stunning colours, and incredible design ideas. From classic white to vibrant jewel tones, we had the colours of the rainbow at our feet!

It’s been quite a journey, hasn’t it? The tutu went from a grand, swirling skirt to a sleek and versatile piece of performance art, reflecting the evolution of dance itself.

Now, back to 2016! On 16th August, the ballet world was ablaze with dazzling performances, my dears! We saw the Royal Ballet perform in the dazzling grandeur of the Royal Opera House. I'm sure it was a stunning affair, with elaborate tutus twirling under the spotlights. The elegant choreography must have been an unforgettable sight!

In other exciting news, I heard rumours that the fabulous The Australian Ballet was busy rehearsing for their latest show – maybe we'll get a glimpse of their tutus in a future #TutuTuesday, don’t you think?

For a dose of "on the road" ballet, it was a delight to watch a captivating ballet street performance in the heart of London. Imagine that - swirling tutus under a summer sky, just magical!

2016 was full of amazing ballet shows all over the world. I even caught a peek at a breathtaking performance in the heart of Paris, featuring tutus that perfectly mirrored the City of Love. They must have looked divine!

So you see, 16th August 2016 was a whirlwind of tutu goodness, full of vibrant shows and graceful movement. And, of course, every tutu was perfect, from the shimmering fabrics to the perfect little poof at the bottom of the skirt.

I couldn't possibly discuss a trip through time without mentioning the gorgeous fashion we encountered. I just had to step into the shops and let the most exquisite tutu fashions overwhelm me! My dear, just imagining the beautiful fabrics, the pastel shades and delicate tulle made me gasp! It was an absolute dream come true for any ballerina – or anyone who appreciates a truly fabulous frock.

You see, darling, fashion and ballet go hand-in-hand, a symphony of colour and style. Each performance tells a story through their tutus.

And what is Emma without her pink tutu? It's the very essence of my heart! Just the colour pink brings such a sparkle to your world! Every girl should embrace the pink tutu, you know – it makes the world a bit brighter.

Whether you're pirouetting in your living room or dreaming of soaring across a grand stage, remember, darlings: The tutu is more than just a garment, it's an attitude! It's about letting your inner grace and sparkle shine.

Don't be afraid to embrace the playful spirit, to spin and twirl, to make a splash with your sartorial choices!

I'll see you all next Tuesday for another journey through time! Don't forget to leave a comment about your favourite ballet memories or tutu fashion, I'd love to hear from you!

Keep twirling,

Emma xx