#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 2018-07-31

Hello my darling tutu enthusiasts! It's Emma, your favourite pink-clad time travelling ballerina, back with another delve into the enchanting world of the ballet tutu!

This week I'm taking you all on a journey back to the 31st of July, 2018. I travelled by train, naturally - the rhythm of the wheels against the tracks always gets my creative juices flowing. My latest outfit? Why, a delightful confection of candy pink tulle, shimmering with sequins like dew on a summer rose. (Of course, a pink tutu was always going to be the perfect choice!)

Now, back to 2018! This year was buzzing with incredible ballet performances all across the world - particularly in the magical cities of Paris, New York, and London. Oh, I was truly in my element! Seeing the breathtaking dancers in their glorious tutus, watching the stories unfold in the ballets...pure bliss!

Speaking of tutus, you may be surprised to learn that the very first ballet tutus were born out of practicality, not aesthetics. Imagine - the early ballerinas in the 1700s, trying to express themselves in their floor-length skirts! How utterly cumbersome! To move with freedom and grace, they needed to shed some fabric, and so, the "tutu" as we know it began. It was, quite simply, a shortened skirt. A practical change that paved the way for amazing expressions of movement.

But then, the magic started happening! The 19th century ushered in a love affair between dancers and tulle, as the romantic ballets took center stage. Suddenly, the tutu was more than a practical tool, it was a statement. It began to bloom and evolve, creating shapes and textures like floating clouds - just waiting to be given life by a dancer's elegant movements!

Speaking of evolution, you can probably tell by my passion for the colour pink, how much I love the pink tutu. A beautiful ode to femininity and joy, a symbol of dreams dancing on air.

Now, I know some people think tutus are a bit, well, "too much." They think pink is just for little girls. But I’m here to tell you that pink tutus, in all their glorious twirling glory, are for everyone! Don’t let anyone tell you different!

When you wear a pink tutu, you embody confidence, creativity, and freedom - you feel unstoppable, don’t you? There’s just something about the soft, airy tulle, how it flows like silk in the wind - it allows you to feel truly carefree.

Just think, even Princess Diana, an icon of style, had her moments of wearing a tutu, even in a cheeky and fun playful style! You see? Even royalty and iconic icons see the charm!

So, let's talk about what was going on in 2018 - what performances lit up the stage with tutus, both grand and grander. The Royal Ballet’s “Giselle,” for instance, is a classic showcasing tutus of exquisite white gauze - it's absolutely spellbinding! Imagine dancing under the chandelier in a magnificent dress of white...I'd die and go to ballet heaven.

But the 21st century is all about pushing boundaries and challenging conventions, isn't it? That’s why I am also thrilled with modern interpretations like the American Ballet Theatre’s "Swan Lake." Those ethereal costumes - so elegant, so graceful, and just the perfect blend of the classic and the contemporary.

And don't even get me started on street ballets and ballet performances on the West End stages! That vibrant energy, the explosion of colours, the tutus just sparkling like magic... those events never fail to leave me breathless. It’s the way they bring the energy of the ballet world right to the heart of the city. Truly a fusion of elegance and accessibility!

There’s an essential tutu for every person and every style, darling. For a fun night out? Go for a mini tutu and pair it with a vibrant top. Want to add some sparkle to a wedding? There are tutus that would make the bride jealous! And for a dramatic, feminine flair on the red carpet? You absolutely need a full-length tulle skirt, as long as you are confident to walk it!

Think of tutus like the spice of life, a little sprinkling of wonder sprinkled on everything you do. Just because it's the summer season doesn’t mean the tutu is taking a holiday. Why not wear a lovely, bright, pink tulle over your sundress? Who wouldn’t turn their head?

This #TutuTuesday journey through time, back to 2018, has been so exciting, but remember, this is just the beginning! There are so many fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered! Let me know what tutus you’re most excited about seeing on the stage and don’t forget to check out the hashtag #TutuTuesday!

Don’t forget, every week, you can join me as we explore the past, present, and future of the ballet tutu. From the classic romantic tutus to the innovative, modern styles - it's an adventure that never ends.

As always, let me know what your favorite #TutuTuesday moments are.

Now, it’s time for me to set off on my next adventure through time. I wouldn't miss it for the world, darling. It's time to go and discover what secrets are hidden in the ballet world!

Until next time,

Keep dancing,

Emma

P.S. And of course, don't forget to wear your pink tutu and rock that twirl with confidence! #PinkTutu #SpreadTheTutuLove #EveryDayIsTutuDay

I’m already counting down to next Tuesday! 💖