Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink-loving ballerina blogger, Emma, here with another #TutuTuesday post, this time taking a twirl through history. Grab a cuppa (I'm having a rather lovely rosehip tea - so very girly, wouldn't you agree?), settle in, and let's take a peek at the fabulous evolution of the tutu.
Today, dear readers, we're stepping back in time to 21st January, 2020. A time, believe it or not, when gasp not everyone had jumped on the pink tutu bandwagon. How did we even exist in such a tutu-less world, I ask you?!
Anyway, it's time for some serious fashion history, and trust me, the evolution of the tutu is far more exciting than a basic history lesson. So, pack your imagination and let's get dancing!
The Humble Beginnings
Believe it or not, tutus started off much less dramatic. The Romantic era, think Giselle and La Sylphide, brought about a shift in ballet. Instead of bulky and restrictive court attire, dancers needed something lighter, airier. Enter the tutu romantique, a light, calf-length skirt of tulle, offering freedom of movement without sacrificing that elegant flair.
The Big "Bell" Reveal
By the mid-19th century, we saw the arrival of the iconic "bell" tutu, like the one Swan Lake made famous. Shorter, fluffier, and a statement in every way, this tutu embraced the idea of ethereal beauty and helped to elevate the ballet world even more.
From Bell to Ballroom
In the 20th century, the tutu really took flight. We saw the invention of the tutu decollete, a fitted bodice and shorter skirt for Coppelia and other divertissement dances, making dancers look like true ballerinas stepping out of a fairytale.
Twirling Through Time
In 2020, the tutu is still a staple, and, let's be honest, there are a gazillion variations on the classic. Ballet companies all around the world, from the Royal Ballet to New York City Ballet, continue to make the tutu their statement. From the grand classic styles to the bold contemporary pieces, tutus truly transcend the decades and bring a unique spark to every performance.
Where I'm Twirling Tonight
And what of me on 21st January, 2020? Why, I was in a packed house at the beautiful London Coliseum. As the lights dimmed, the scent of theatre magic filled the air and a symphony of violins sent shivers down my spine. This was no ordinary ballet performance, it was La Sylphide, the same ballet that took my breath away during one of my time-hopping adventures a few months ago!
Imagine, if you will, that elegant, delicate, pale-hued tutu and how beautifully the dancers carried themselves across the stage. Each delicate movement, each elegant turn – a true dance symphony! It brought tears to my eyes and my toes tapping – oh, it was magical!
What's Trending In Pink?
You know I had to visit Harrods after that beautiful ballet! Oh, my goodness, did you see their stunning pink collection this season?! From the palest pink hues to vibrant fuchsias, and everything in between, they have so many divine designs. The colour of my tutu today, darlings? Oh, the blush of a rose! So perfectly feminine and dreamy!
I picked up the most divine, ultra-soft baby pink scarf. Now, tell me you can't imagine me looking exquisite wearing it at the next ballet performance. Absolutely perfect to layer over any tutu!
Keeping the Tutu Dream Alive
From my travels across time and into the heart of the ballet world, one thing remains constant: the sheer joy and magic of the tutu. It’s not just about fashion; it’s about dreaming big, taking flight, and never forgetting the beautiful stories that unfold beneath its layers.
And I’m off again. See you next Tuesday for more #TutuTuesday!
Love, Emma
Post Script: Remember to check out our Pink Tutu Forum where we have loads of tips for picking out the perfect pink tutu and lots of fun discussions! See you on www.pink-tutu.com !
