Hello darling tutus! Welcome back to another #TutuTuesday, I'm Emma, your resident tutu enthusiast from Derbyshire. It’s Tuesday 4th September, and the sun's shining so brightly here in New York City, it’s practically giving us a pink glow! It's a perfect day for a pink tutu. As usual, my wardrobe is exploding with tulles, I'm a girl after my own heart! Speaking of hearts... my time travelling plans for the day are already set. It's all about ballet tutus, my darling friends!
My heart pounded with excitement for this Tuesday’s Tutu Journey! New York’s a hot spot for all things sparkly and magical! The energy in the air is electrifying! I’ve planned to visit the Museum of the Moving Image, their collection features ballet movies, fashion designers who have dressed dancers, and all kinds of memorabilia that is totally extra. You just can't go wrong with a good dose of the tutu and the sparkle, don't you think? I plan to dress to impress!
I'm also super excited about tonight's performance of "The Nutcracker," starring none other than the legendary Misty Copeland. How amazing does it feel to have someone like her breaking through the dance barriers? She’s absolutely smashing it! Seeing her dance is pure inspiration.
I could not resist picking up a new pair of ballerina flats today in my favourite pink, obviously. I can't seem to resist, it’s a sickness, this shopping craze! Luckily, New York has stores for every style, from the chic boutiques on Fifth Avenue to the funky little shops in Brooklyn. Shopping in a new place? Now that’s an experience!
It’s always an amazing adventure traveling through time to experience the ballet! Let's delve into today's Tutu Tuesday history and dive right into the history of the tutu!
The History of the Tutu
If you asked me why tutus are so popular, I would tell you it's because they’re an emblem of ballet, but that wasn't always the case, darling. Think back to the 15th century. The earliest form of the ballet, Court Ballet, was performed in full court regalia and long, elaborate skirts. So fancy!
But as the art form began to change in the 19th century, so did the wardrobe. The iconic Romantic era, inspired by the lightness and elegance of Romantic music, was all about creating the perfect, feminine look. That was when the tutu as we know it today came about, starting with the “tutu romantique.”
Think layers of billowing fabric, soft tulle, and delicate lace— perfect for creating the impression of flowing, weightless movement.
During the 1880s, ballerinas began experimenting with shorter, more practical tutus, allowing greater freedom of movement and demonstrating the intricate footwork that was becoming more and more central to ballet. This evolved into the "tutu pancake," a close-fitting skirt that emphasized a ballerina’s beautiful line and form.
But the tutu doesn't stop there. There's the “classical tutu,” with layers upon layers of tulle to create that billowing shape. Then there's the “demi-tutu,”** which is a little bit shorter and allows for even more movement.
Let’s be honest, each of these styles of tutus is pretty amazing! Every one of them makes a ballerina look absolutely sensational on stage.
Tutus: Beyond Ballet
The Tutu’s influence reaches further than the ballet studio, darling. Over the past century, it’s taken on a life of its own, becoming a symbol of fashion and even empowerment!
From haute couture to street style, the tutu has graced everything from gowns on red carpets to playful tutus on little girls who love to twirl.
Even designers, like Vivienne Westwood, have embraced the tutu and created gorgeous garments that use the classic shape as a starting point. The result? Absolutely stunning!
My Pink Tutu Adventure: Part II
Tonight, I am so excited to don my most fabulous pink tutu to watch Misty Copeland perform in "The Nutcracker!" It’s all about the sparkle and the beauty of the ballet, so I’m pulling out all the stops!
I love how these ballet shows inspire me to add another sparkly layer to my life.
Speaking of life… I hope this journey through tutu history inspires you, too. The tutu has been a part of the story of ballet from the very beginning! This tiny, little, magnificent, pink sparkle in my life is all I really need!
It has brought me joy, elegance, and so many happy adventures along the way. Oh, the joy of the tutu!
Let's keep the tutus dancing and continue this inspiring history! See you next #TutuTuesday!
www.pink-tutu.com
