#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 2032-03-23

Hiya lovelies! It’s Emma here, your #TutuTuesday host and proud resident pink-tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed, time-travelling fashionista! I’m currently beaming down from the lovely city of London, a veritable ballet-lover’s paradise!

It’s March 23rd, 2032, and if you're a fan of classic ballet, get ready for some serious magic! This date holds a super special place in ballet history as the anniversary of the dazzling premiere of the The Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House. I just can't get over the absolutely breathtaking choreography! I had the most fantastic time seeing this show live, with all those incredible, sweeping costumes, particularly those fluffy, dreamy, pink tutus – absolute perfection! ?

I always feel like time travelling to the past to see the evolution of tutus is an amazing adventure. Like every girl’s dream come true! In our journey, we travel back to the origins of the iconic tutus we all know and adore. They didn’t always look like the light and airy wonders they are today! Did you know tutus started as…get ready for it… knee-length, soft, and frilly gowns! Now imagine a world where you can't show your lovely ankles with all those delightful leg lines – what a fashion crime! ?

So, when exactly did tutus begin to get all their fabulously fun form-fitting glory? Well, picture this, a magical moment in the early 19th century: a groundbreaking French ballet called La Sylphide. This ballet completely revolutionised stage movement and introduced the world to a new breed of ballerina: the "Sylph". This delicate, airy fairy-like character became a true fashion icon of the time. The stage attire? A shorter, lightweight dress with a tulle under layer!

The tutu we all know and love came to life later! It became popular through Marie Taglioni, the world-famous "Sylph", who, when she took on the starring role in La Sylphide, wore the iconic skirt-shaped costume, a symbol of elegant fluidity that became a hallmark of classic ballet. I bet you can just imagine her spinning on stage in her glorious tutu…magical! ✨

But, as the art of ballet evolved and became even more ambitious, the tutu got even more dazzling! For Romantic ballet it became about ethereal, billowing tulle with multiple layers, and in the latter part of the 19th century the Classical tutu, with its dramatic shape and tiered layers of tulle was born.

Think of all the stunning moments on stage from Giselle, to The Nutcracker - each featuring its own perfect tutu that's totally iconic! Every stage appearance of these ballerinas with their magnificent tutus, is just…heart ♥️!

## Pink Power - A Tutu for Every Mood

Now, back to present day, let’s talk about my favourite topic: pink! It's simply impossible to think about a tutu without imagining its wonderful, feminine elegance! Just the colour itself shouts femininity, strength and grace! A beautiful shade to embrace! This iconic pink is as fabulous as it is classic, as beautiful as it is expressive! Just as the color pink is often associated with innocence, dreams and creativity, the ballet tutu, whether a romantic pouffy design or a striking modern creation, brings all these themes to the stage. It embodies so much beauty and femininity! And let’s not forget how it amplifies those stunning leg lines and graceful moves!

What I adore most about a tutu is its sheer, whimsical joy! It's truly an enchanting element that makes ballet performances unforgettable. ?

I can just imagine being a part of a big, celebratory event that just shouts pink. It would be such a wonderful celebration to showcase all the colours, sparkles, and beauty of this magnificent art form. Ballet isn’t about being afraid to express yourself through colour and movement! That’s what’s magical! Let’s make our stage costumes fabulous!

What would my ultimate tutu dream date consist of?
Firstly, the ultimate tutu ensemble – my beloved pink tulle, naturally, featuring those delicate, layered frills with beautiful intricate hand beading to compliment that gorgeous sparkle and give it a true luxurious feel! And what outfit goes best with that perfect, romantic pink? My absolute favourite choice! - a pastel-toned, silky velvet bodice. It looks so incredibly chic and romantic paired with a gorgeous pink velvet belt and perfectly-matched stilettos! ✨ I can imagine myself whirling and twirling around a room of adoring fans wearing this divine tutu and outfit. It’s enough to melt any ballet heart! ?

Secondly, it would have to be an amazing location. My pick would definitely be London’s historic theatre Sadler’s Wells Theatre, a stage known for incredible innovative shows. With that amazing architectural grandeur and romantic stage, I can just imagine all the incredible dance performances - it’s magical! I absolutely love this theatre. I often enjoy a spot of afternoon tea in the nearby theatre’s café, indulging in scones, sandwiches, and lots of decadent sweet treats, while soaking up all the artistic inspiration! It really is a must-see for every tutu-loving ballet enthusiast!

You’ll often see me exploring these vibrant spaces, meeting and chatting with fellow ballet enthusiasts. Because here’s the thing - I believe there is a little bit of ballet in everyone! From fashion lovers to music lovers to anyone who embraces the magic of expressing yourself with confidence, elegance and creativity - just like me! It's time to release your inner ballerina!

My time in the UK is just brimming with fabulous experiences, new exciting venues to visit, new outfits to create, and incredible new tutus to buy! From London to Brighton, my schedule is packed with the most divine and enchanting adventures! Stay tuned for next week’s blog post!

* Until then, remember – a tutu is all you need to unlock the beauty of self-expression! * ??

See you next Tuesday lovelies!

Love Emma! ❤️

P.S. Please share your tutu-licious memories with me and tell me about the most inspiring ballet shows or dancers you have ever seen! Use #PinkTutuEmma ! Can’t wait to read all about your adventures!