Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, back with another instalment of your weekly #TutuTuesday fix.
Today, we're going to take a twirl through time to the shimmering 16th of July 2019. Just think, in a mere five days time, we'll be marking a rather special occasion - my birthday! I can't wait to share the celebration with all of you fabulous tutu lovers.
Tutus: A History Worth Spinning!
But before we get caught up in the excitement of festivities, let's get back to our regular programming – ballet tutus. Today, we're diving into the historical aspect of this incredible piece of clothing, a garment that has seen a dramatic transformation through the centuries!
It's amazing how something as iconic as the tutu has actually only been around for a mere two hundred years, comparatively speaking, of course! Its evolution has been just as fascinating as the evolution of ballet itself, and a testament to the incredible talent of designers and dancers alike.
It's important to remember, the tutu didn't just appear in its modern form overnight, my dears. It had its beginnings way back in the late 18th century with those early ballet performances.
In the beginning, it wasn't the wispy, dramatic garment we know today. Those original ballerinas danced in flowing, elaborate gowns – a far cry from the iconic frilly layers we see on stage nowadays. Imagine trying to do a grand jeté in a giant poufy skirt - it wouldn't be a good look, darling!
As ballet technique progressed and became increasingly technical and dynamic, dancers needed more freedom of movement. It was the romantic period of ballet that truly paved the way for the tutus as we know them today.
Let's talk about Marie Taglioni, a revolutionary figure who famously took to the stage in the first tutu, as we know it, during the early 1800s. Her version wasn't the standard "classic tutu" of today, with its layers of stiffened tulle, but a beautiful single-layered white gown with flowing, ethereal fabric - a visual symbol of grace and airy freedom! Her choreography was light, romantic and incredibly graceful - perfectly reflecting the new aesthetic she brought to the stage with the flowing tutus.
The Rise of the "Classical Tutu"
Over the next century, the tutu evolved to embrace the new heights of skill and agility dancers were achieving, giving way to the iconic "classic tutu". You know, that structured masterpiece with the multi-layered frills of stiff tulle that just seems to float effortlessly, showcasing a ballerina's beautiful lines.
And while we're talking about the "classical tutu," how could we forget its little black twin, the "Romantic Tutu"?! This one takes the form of a knee-length, tulle-layered skirt, making it shorter than its "classic" cousin. I'd be lying if I didn't admit this is a personal favourite – something about the drama and sophistication just tickles my pink tutu soul!
But hold on, the story of the tutu doesn't stop there! As ballet techniques advanced in the 20th century, we saw yet another fabulous transformation! Enter the "modern tutu" - sleek, elegant, and just a bit edgy. No more rigid and restrictive tulle, this style favoured a simple, minimalist look – less "pomp" and more dynamic.
Today, ballet companies experiment with the "modern tutu", creating innovative and contemporary variations on its original form. I mean, can you imagine wearing a tutu on pointe? Pretty incredible! You're basically dancing on a cloud of layers, and with so many modern creations today - it's certainly a statement piece that captures the world's attention!
Back to My Wonderful Life (and Ballet!)
Well, darling, as you all know I love to travel through time and soak in the different ballet history. From seeing those original performances to attending a more contemporary show, I’m always ready for an adventure!
So let’s get back to July 2019! Oh, to be a ballerina in a vibrant, exciting era like this! As I'm writing, it’s 10:37 am here in Derbyshire, and the sun is shining gloriously! I think this calls for a new pair of ballerina flats - I simply can't wear ballet shoes all the time - even a ballet ballerina needs a bit of fashion in their life! The local shopping center is only a few minutes from my apartment – time to find a new shade of pink!
Later, darling, I'll be heading down to the theatre to enjoy another ballet show. My favourite company, The Royal Ballet is showing Sleeping Beauty - so excited for all that elegant tulle and beautiful storytelling!
Remember, darlings, life's a ballet – so embrace the beautiful steps, the big pirouettes, and don't forget to wear your pink tutus with a big smile!
See you next Tuesday!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
Follow me on Instagram @emmaballetadventures
