Hiya lovelies! It's Emma here, back again for another #TutuTuesday with a blog post overflowing with tulle and tales of the tutu!
This week, I've set my time machine to July 2nd, 2024 - and I'm absolutely tickled pink to be here! Just imagine: London is abuzz with the excitement of the Royal Opera House Summer Season! From dazzling classical ballets like Giselle to captivating contemporary pieces, it's the perfect time to soak up the magic of dance.
Speaking of magic, let's rewind our tutus a little, shall we? Because before these dazzling displays of pirouettes and grand jetés, there were the origins of this wondrous costume: the tutu.
A Dance Through Time: The History of the Tutu
Believe it or not, ladies, tutus haven't always been these flowing, whimsical masterpieces we know and love today.
It all began in the 1800s with Maria Taglioni, the 'Goddess of Dance', in her iconic role of La Sylphide. This ballet revolutionised the way ballerinas danced, calling for lighter, more fluid movements. The way Maria danced was quite the sight to behold and it demanded a change in clothing – a less restricting skirt compared to the more cumbersome layered dresses of the day. This gave birth to the "romantic tutu". Think layers of soft, delicate gauze, flowing beautifully around the ankles, emphasising those breathtaking leaps and arabesques! It was like a breath of fresh air, a real ballet breakthrough.
As we ventured into the later half of the 19th century, the romantic tutu transformed into the more rigid, tiered "classical tutu", we know and love. Think those beautiful tiers of tulle, billowing outward like a ballerina's own personal cloud! They added height and dramatic flair, accentuating the beautiful lines of the dance. It's almost like the ballerina's costume is an extension of her own movement and art, a glorious union of grace and fashion!
My Tutu Wardrobe
Now, my fellow tutu enthusiasts, I must confess - my heart beats fastest for the classic, full-bodied "paquita tutu", with its iconic fluffy, flared form. Just imagine the pure joy of twirling, watching it blossom around you with every spin! Every time I don it, it's like being swept away in a flurry of pink and fluff – pure tutu magic!
And as much as I adore a classic tutu, my adventures through time have given me a real appreciation for all styles, whether it be the airy lightness of the romantic tutu or the boldness of a contemporary, asymmetric one.
What I'm Up to on July 2nd, 2024
It's time to delve back into the magic of the day, and there's no better place than the Royal Opera House, where I'm getting my fashion fix in the glorious costume displays. Every elaborate gown, each feathered headdress, every delicate accessory, whispers tales of artistry and creativity!
And later, I'll be indulging in a decadent dinner in the heart of Covent Garden, toasting the glorious history of the tutu with a glass of sparkling pink lemonade. This is a time-traveler's dream come true: to be immersed in this incredible world of dance and fashion!
Pink Tutu Inspirations: What's New in the World of Tutus!
The contemporary dance scene is just buzzing with amazing new tutu creations. This year alone I've seen dazzling neon-bright tutus, tutus with intricate patterns, tutus made from sustainable materials, and even a pair that incorporated holographic sequins. What will next week bring?
And, you guys know my ultimate mission – to inspire everyone to wear a pink tutu! After all, they're not just for dancers, these fabulous frocks. You could sport your pink tutu at a picnic, wear it to the beach, even wear it as part of a fun outfit to a concert. Just imagine the joy and smiles a pink tutu could spread – who knows, it could just inspire the world to twirl!
Until next time, happy twirling!
Your fellow tutu enthusiast, Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
