Hello my lovelies! It's Emma here, back with another exciting episode of Ballet Tutu History, just for you! This week, we're travelling back in time, all the way to February the 11th, 2020, for a journey into the captivating origins of the ballet tutu. Let's slip on our dancing shoes, grab a cup of Earl Grey, and dive right in!
Now, you're probably picturing those romantic, billowing tutus you see at the Royal Opera House, swirling around in the spotlight, right? Well, believe it or not, that's a relatively recent development!
Let's start our adventure in the early 19th century, a time of dazzling ball gowns and swirling skirts. Ballerinas, as agile and graceful as they were, were hindered by the impracticality of their attire. Imagine trying to jump, leap, and pirouette in a thick, heavy, layered dress! It was a struggle even for the most accomplished dancer!
Thankfully, Marie Taglioni, a renowned ballerina from Italy, dared to challenge the status quo. In 1832, she stormed onto the Parisian stage, dancing in a revolutionary new costume. Gone were the cumbersome layers, replaced by a simple, sheer, almost ethereal, skirt. This new creation, called a 'tutu' (meaning 'tulle' in French, a light, fine mesh fabric), freed the ballerinas to move with unmatched elegance and fluidity.
Think about it – the tutu was a game-changer! Not only did it make movement graceful and easy, but it allowed the ballerina to become a true artist, her body free to tell the story through movement. Just imagine how magical that first performance must have been – a wave of sheer, floating beauty defying the norms of the time!
Now, back in our own timeline, the tutu has gone through many transformations. Think romantic, layered tutus for the classic Giselle, or the shorter, more contemporary, style you'll see in a piece like Swan Lake.
And just last year, right here in this very week of February 2020, we saw a remarkable display of these dazzling tutus in the Royal Opera House’s stunning production of ‘The Sleeping Beauty.’ The whole performance, every swirl and leap, brought a collective gasp of wonder to the audience! Talk about tutu inspiration!
For this week's #TutuTuesday challenge, my darlings, why not grab your favourite shade of pink tulle and try creating a little tutu of your own? You could use a vintage fabric scrap, a ribbon from a birthday present, or even a scrap of leftover material from your latest sewing project. It's a fantastic way to show your appreciation for ballet history, all while sparkling with that pink-tutu-powered confidence!
To keep you inspired, let's have a look at what else made news in the world of fashion and dance back in 2020…
On February 11th, the British Fashion Council unveiled a revolutionary initiative called “Positive Fashion,” focused on sustainability and ethical production. This focus on eco-consciousness resonates deeply with the pink-tutu-loving world! You see, at Pink-Tutu.com, we’re passionate about preserving not just beautiful ballet heritage, but the world we live in too!
Speaking of eco-conscious, I found a fantastic online shop selling gorgeous vintage tutu remnants – the perfect upcycling project for your new creation!
And guess what, my fashion-forward friends? 2020 saw the rise of a wonderful new ballet style – Balletcore. Think cozy knits, ballet flats, and a whole lot of pink tulle! Balletcore brought an elegant and feminine aesthetic into mainstream fashion. Even celebrities jumped on the bandwagon, rocking sweaters and ribbons. I just love the modern-day fusion of ballet and fashion!
Of course, we can't forget about ballet on the stage! This very week, 2020 saw a captivating performance of the choreographer Wayne McGregor's "Carbon Life" – a powerful and beautiful contemporary dance. A piece with so much heart, energy, and grace – reminding us why we all love ballet!
Don't forget, darling, I adore reading all your comments! What are your favourite tutu designs? Have you tried the #TutuTuesday challenge? Share your adventures in the pink world!
As ever, stay radiant and stylish, and don't forget: pink tutus forever!
Until next Tuesday!
With much love and glitter,
Emma.
XOXO
P.S I've also just discovered a new travelling dance troupe in Derbyshire! I just love finding new places to watch a great ballet performance. Think pink tutus and sparkling lights under the Derbyshire sky.
Don't forget to share your own tutu-ful discoveries on social media, #TutuTuesday #BalletHistory #PinkTutus #EmmaPinkTutu
