Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-clad time-traveller Emma here, ready to whisk you off on a fabulous trip through the history of ballet. Buckle up, my dears, as we take a twirl back to June 25th, 2019, for another #TutuTuesday journey! ✨
#9783 - June 25th, 2019 - The Dawn of a Tutu-tastic Era!
You know, I often get asked, “Emma, what's the biggest fashion disaster you've ever encountered in your travels?” My answer is always the same – a certain pair of cringe cringe cringe – (I'm too polite to say it aloud) shoes from the 18th century that were made from wood!
Honestly, who needs painful footwear when you could be strutting around in the ultimate footwear? Yep, I'm talking tutus, of course! 👠🩰
But, enough about awful shoes! Let's talk about how tutus evolved, starting with our journey to 19th century Paris!
From Princesses to Pointe Shoes: The 1800s marked a real turning point for tutus. Before, ballerinas basically wore these billowing skirts that were SO HUGE that they resembled the long, flowing dresses of princesses – but a little less practical. But as dancing techniques evolved and ballet started to embrace this more dynamic style, Maria Taglioni – the original dancing goddess – was the first to wear a revolutionary design: a short, gauzy, white skirt made from layers of tulle, fastened just below the waist. It looked divine. The design was revolutionary – this romantic tutu helped ballerinas move freely and express their grace. It really brought elegance to a whole new level, making it a sensation!
The romantic tutu became the new symbol of ballet fashion. And I, my dears, was captivated by the freedom, movement, and pure femininity that it epitomised. This new era made me swoon!
Tututologists & Trends: The early 1900s brought in more structured silhouettes with layered skirts – they looked tres chic and I still adore them to this day. As the ballet scene boomed, there was a thrill in the air! Fashion designers and choreographers came together to dream up utterly fascinating designs. My favourite style during this era was the classic tutu, which featured a slightly shorter skirt with a lovely flared shape. They were absolutely exquisite!
Then, after a brief detour to 1920s flapper dancing - a fabulous period that made everyone shimmy - ballet's evolution took an unexpected twist. In 1940s Britain, gorgeous tutu creations embraced bold, innovative styles. Think sleek, geometric designs and colourful panels – I found some real stunners that I had to bring back with me! Even after World War II, fashion continued to reimagine the classic tutu, playing with different fabrics, cuts, and lengths – just as inspiring!
And while I'm a true devotee of the traditional ballerina tutus, let’s not forget the emergence of totally modern styles that rocked the ballet world: think 1970s "punk" tutus with leather straps and shredded tulle (I love a little punk, you know?), the 1980s "New York City Ballet tutu" that embraced a less full and a totally modern silhouette – oh my! Then there were the "power" tutus that I loved from the 1990s – they incorporated bold colours, vibrant prints, and lots of eye-catching accessories! Totally my era!
Tutues Are Timeless: From 1990 onwards, fashion's continued innovation brought some exciting creations with modern silhouettes that have remained incredibly influential – like the short and edgy "mini-tutues," the ultra-layered tulle looks of gorgeous contemporary dancers, the dramatic and utterly glamorous tutus crafted for iconic ballerinas! Honestly, I could never get tired of tutus! They're a never-ending fashion story – so dynamic and eternally beautiful.
Speaking of stunning creations, on this date, June 25th, 2019, I found myself watching "The Royal Ballet: The Winter's Tale" at the Royal Opera House in London. The grandeur of the setting, the sheer brilliance of the dancers, and the mesmerizing story all collided in a whirlwind of elegance! Honestly, it’s no wonder that people travel the world to experience this kind of beauty.
The Power of Pink! As a firm believer that every day is a perfect excuse to wear pink, my outfit for this outing was truly a work of art. I chose a fabulous vintage pink tutu with a delightful layering of delicate tulle and an array of dazzling sparkly embellishments. Paired it with a pristine, white satin bodice that accentuated the tutu's fluffy layers and added a touch of classic elegance. Oh, and a fabulous pink headband, adorned with satin ribbons and sparkling pink rhinestones for a final touch of girly magic. To finish off my look, I decided on a pair of pale pink pumps, naturally - it's all about staying true to my style! Pink, I truly believe, adds a vibrant touch to everything, especially tutus! 😉
This truly magnificent ballet experience, in its grandeur and elegance, left me inspired, filled with gratitude, and … oh my! I felt a newfound obsession to go on a pink-tutu wearing adventure across the world – maybe one day you can join me?
Until next week, my dear readers, may your week be full of grace and elegance – and always remember, the world's a much better place with a sprinkle of pink, and a few twirls in a tutu! 💋
Stay Tutu-tiful!
Emma 💕
www.pink-tutu.com
*P.S. Do let me know if you have any questions about tutus and ballet history! Just leave a comment, darling. You can even join the #TutuTuesday club on social media. I’d *love to hear from you! Let's dance! **
