Hello my gorgeous tutu lovers! 💖
It's Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast, and I'm back with another delightful delve into the history of our beloved ballet staple. Today's date is the 8th November 2016, which means we're taking a little trip back to a time when fashion trends were starting to get a bit more, shall we say, avant-garde.
This week, we're going to be exploring the fascinating development of the tutu as a symbol of elegance, rebellion, and of course, breathtakingly beautiful movement.
Now, I know what you're thinking: "Emma, a tutu is a tutu, right? How much history could there possibly be in a few layers of tulle?" Well, my dearest darlings, allow me to assure you: the tutu's story is just as captivating as a perfectly executed pirouette!
From Royal Courts to Rebellious Revelry
The origins of the tutu can be traced back to the courtly dances of the 15th and 16th centuries. Now, imagine yourself twirling around in a voluminous, embroidered gown with yards upon yards of fabric – that's how they used to do it! But those grand garments, however stunning, did not exactly facilitate effortless movements.
As ballet developed as an art form, so did the need for attire that would allow for greater flexibility and expression. Enter the tutu! The first recognizable "tutu," if you can even call it that, was more of a short, puffy skirt with lots of flounces, designed for the Italian ballet master, Carlo Blasis. His choreography demanded greater freedom of movement, and so, the revolutionary idea of a "shorter skirt" was born!
It took a few more centuries for the tutu to become the icon of ballet it is today.
By the early 19th century, ballet was going through a glorious renaissance! Ballet techniques were getting refined and dancers began to perform spectacular leaps and pirouettes. This period brought us the famous Romantic Era, a movement of creativity and emotion where the ethereal quality of ballerinas was emphasised.
That’s when, my loves, the tutu as we know it began to take shape! This era was obsessed with lightness and flow and those lovely, diaphanous tutus became essential. These Romantic tutus were light and airy, creating the illusion of a dancer literally floating on air, perfect for those flowing, dreamy movements.
However, the tutu did not only stand for elegance and grace, but for a spirit of rebellion as well! This came later in the mid-19th century when the French choreographer Marius Petipa arrived. He introduced the idea of a shorter and even more dramatic "tutu." And my darlings, what do we see today? That's right! The dramatic tutu that makes every ballet performance unforgettable! Imagine, a tulle cloud encasing the dancer's legs, showcasing every twirl and leap in all its glory!
The tutu, the perfect blend of art and craft
Throughout the years, the tutu has gone through many transformations and been used to evoke a myriad of moods and themes. But the one thing that remains constant? The tutu has always been an absolute essential to a ballet performance.
Just imagine a tutu as a blank canvas – ready for the dancer’s talent to turn into art! Every stitch, every seam, every layer of tulle is crafted to highlight the beauty and athleticism of the performance.
What really sets it apart from all other items of clothing is how perfectly it captures movement. A graceful, swirling tutu speaks volumes about the power of beauty and grace combined. The graceful folds and cascading fabric evoke a sense of whimsy and fantasy – a perfect expression of the spirit of dance.
Now, here is a fun fact for you, darling. As of 2016, the price of a single tutu made for a leading ballet performance can go for thousands of pounds. The hand-stitched embroidery and elaborate designs can only be created by a few specialists across the world. They take time, effort and a good amount of love to create – that's why I love seeing these intricate pieces on the stage!
Tutus for Every Occasion
And that's just the "professional" side of the tutu story! The tutu, in its endless variations and designs, has gone from the hallowed halls of opera houses to the streets and catwalks across the globe.
You want a dramatic look? Wear a dramatic tutu. A romantic look? Choose a soft and ethereal tutu. Or maybe you’d like a sporty tutu? We have that, too! From colourful creations for modern ballet pieces to minimalist designs that embrace the art of minimalist expression - the tutu has a place for everyone! And trust me, darling, it's an absolute joy to watch these talented dancers move with confidence and elegance in their tutus.
From Runway to Runway
In the late 20th century and the early 21st, tutus began to appear everywhere, and this darling, has to be our favourite thing! From pop concerts and theatrical productions to fashion campaigns and film festivals, the tutu's allure extended beyond the stage and the studio! It’s been worn by icons like Madonna, Mariah Carey and, my personal favourite, ahem, Britney Spears – just to name a few!
So, where did all those wonderful designers get the inspiration? Well, ballet! And that is what inspires me.
And today? Today is another day where you, darling, can proudly embrace the wonderful history and legacy of this amazing piece of fashion and dance!
If you’re looking for a fun and unique fashion accessory for yourself or someone you love, go and grab yourself a pink tutu, a bright one! My website, www.pink-tutu.com, is bursting with colourful creations – the pink ones are, of course, my personal favourites – and is sure to have something special for everyone.
I'll see you again next week for another instalment of our #TutuTuesday blog! Until then, go out and embrace your inner ballerina and twirl the night away! 💖
Yours in Tulle,
Emma
