#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 2019-12-03

Hello, my darlings! Emma here, your trusty tutu-clad guide to the whimsical world of ballet. This week, we’re taking a trip back in time – all the way to 3rd December 2019.

Oh, how I love to travel through time, hopping from century to century on the back of a whirlwind of tulle and silk! You know, the one that comes from the joy of a perfect pirouette? Of course, this week’s journey means no comfy first-class seats or sparkly hot air balloons for me! It's all about hopping trains for this one! (They just didn’t have the style they do nowadays!) But no worries, I've packed my trusty pink tutu and a whole lot of enthusiasm for this trip.

Right, on with the story!

I arrived in the vibrant hub of, wait for it, Paris, darlings! Can you believe it? Such an epicentre of style and ballet – and naturally, my tutu fit right in! On this December day in 2019, the Paris Opera Ballet was wowing audiences with Le Corsaire – a dazzling production brimming with fiery emotions and intricate choreography. I just knew that I had to go and see it, so I put on my most elegant frock, popped my tutu over the top and headed off! Oh my goodness, the performance was just breathtaking! The dancers’ moves were so graceful, it was almost like watching swans gliding across a frozen lake!

You know, I can't talk about 2019 without mentioning that other big ballet event… yes, dear readers, The Nutcracker was, as usual, a real festive favourite, being performed all across the world. From the most famous of ballet companies, like the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, to quaint, charming regional ballet troupes – the sugar plum fairy was enchanting all who witnessed her magic. The Nutcracker really captures the magic of the season – the beauty of the ballet itself combined with the feeling of warmth, love, and generosity in the air makes it just divine!

Now, let’s talk tutus! Oh, my love, tutus are my true passion! While I've never seen a pink tutu that doesn't look positively sensational, this trip down memory lane showed me how much tutus have evolved!

They still hold onto their signature tulle frills, but you can really see the artistry of ballet costume design through the ages. In 2019, they were a little more... streamlined? Modern tutus incorporated elements of asymmetry, innovative fabrics, and even splashes of colour that were beyond beautiful.

But there's nothing quite like a classic pink tutu. Its simplicity allows the dancers to be the focus. Like a delicate pink blossom on a spring breeze, the ballerina simply floats. It's elegance in motion – just perfect.

I did, however, see one very exciting trend, and it’s a real beauty! "Ballet street” is taking the world by storm! And trust me, dear readers, it's not just some trendy phrase – it's a real movement in the fashion world.

Picture this: stylish street wear inspired by ballet dancers’ fluid elegance, powerful poses and stunning dance silhouettes! You can see these themes reflected in a lot of popular fashion trends right now – think flowy fabrics, leotard-style tops, and soft, feminine colour palettes. My friends tell me you can even find tutus made out of leather and denim for those who want a more “urban” touch!

And then, just as exciting, are those stunning new variations on the traditional pointe shoes! Gone are the days of white-on-white! Pointe shoes today are more flexible, and come in all shades from bright coral and even the deepest burgundy – simply gorgeous! I was thrilled to see some amazing ballet dancers embracing this exciting trend!

And on that note, I must bid you adieu for this week! Remember, the most important thing, darlings, is to embrace the joy and beauty of ballet.

From those mesmerising, classic pointe shoes and tutus to the playful fusion of "ballet street" - let your inner dancer shine! And remember, my mission in life is to inspire everyone to wear a pink tutu – it's not just for ballerinas! Even my travel buddies, a pair of talking tap shoes, love to rock a little tulle from time to time.

Next Tuesday, I’ll be back with another dose of history and inspiration! So keep your eyes peeled for more fascinating tales of the magical world of ballet – until then, stay fabulous and dance like nobody’s watching!

Emma, signing out with a final flourish and a twirl.