Post Number 9244
Hello my lovelies! It's Tuesday, and you know what that means… it's #TutuTuesday! 🩰✨
This week, I'm whisking us back to February 24th, 2009, and believe me, darling, it's a day worth remembering! But before we dive into the past, a quick announcement - this Saturday, I'll be performing at the Royal Opera House in London! Yes, you heard right, London! I'm so excited I could burst! It's a prestigious venue and a dream come true.
If you happen to be in the capital, darling, do come and say hello! I'd love to chat about tutus and maybe even grab a celebratory tea afterwards. And, of course, I'll be documenting everything on my social media!
Now, back to the time-travelling part. We’re going to be focusing on the evolution of ballet tutus, and today, darling, I’ve picked a delightful shade of pink – my absolute favourite. 💕
The Ballet Tutu: From Humble Beginnings to Haute Couture
Picture this, dear readers, 1832. It’s a world of crinoline and layers upon layers of petticoats, far removed from the sleek silhouettes we see in the modern ballet world. Enter Marie Taglioni, the “Sylph” herself, the ballerina who truly redefined ballet.
It all happened in a Parisian theatre. There, amidst gaslights and the hush of anticipation, Taglioni stepped onto the stage in a white skirt made from white muslin that stopped just above her knees. She wore the fabric ethereal - nothing underneath, no petticoats, just soft, billowing layers of fabric. And, poof! The tutu was born.
This was revolutionary! Gone were the bulky skirts of the time; replaced with a flowing, graceful, weightless creation that allowed dancers to finally dance, not just prance around the stage!
The "Romantic" Era and Beyond: A World of Tutus
Now, I don't mean to be dramatic, but it was like magic, darlings! This new tutu – light and flowing, a cloud on the stage - instantly transformed how ballerinas danced. Movements became lighter, more graceful, more fluid. The way we appreciate ballet was forever changed.
Throughout the “Romantic era” in ballet, those soft, romantic tutu forms prevailed, evolving in different ways. From the soft layers of the “Romantic” tutu to the single, tiered “Classical” tutus, to the full-skirted “Romantic” tutu with all its beautiful and delicate layers of silk and lace, a unique aesthetic of tutus emerged – a combination of beauty and freedom for the dancer.
But, hold your horses, dear readers, it didn’t just stop there. This time period wasn’t about just one form – this time, ballerinas embraced experimentation!
Over the years, new forms like the “classical” tutu - a short, rigid tutu often worn for grand pas de deux and other classical variations - took shape, each with their own distinctive look, personality, and function. And, dare I say, fabulousness!
Back to 2009! The Tutu of the 21st Century
Okay, let’s talk about what’s happening in 2009.
As we reach the 21st century, the ballet world keeps moving, constantly adapting to current fashion and pushing artistic boundaries. Today’s ballerinas explore tutus and explore contemporary styles alongside the iconic classic forms! They blend elements of past trends and experiment with new techniques – some have even introduced bright, bold colors and creative designs - bringing a more theatrical and expressive element to the world of the tutu.
Oh! And let’s not forget about the tights darling. These essential accompaniments have become as fashionable as the tutus themselves. There are so many wonderful colors to choose from - classic pink, or black, maybe even shimmering gold or deep sapphire blue - the choices are endless.
If you want a bit of extra sparkle, crystallised tights or metallic thread embroidery are fantastic - and really add a little ‘oomph’ to any look.
But the most essential thing, darling, is to choose a pair of tights that you love - it’ll add the perfect touch to your tutu look, no matter what occasion!
Tutus for Every Occasion
As we move through 2009 and onwards, one thing is for sure – tutus will always be in fashion! Whether you're dancing on stage, stepping out for a special event or just having a fun day out, the possibilities with the humble tutu are limitless!
Now, here's what's happening in the world on February 24th, 2009:
The first episode of the American musical comedy Glee has premiered in the US. Glee, you ask? Why, yes! I’m hearing that the series takes an innovative approach, with singing and dancing intertwined with the storyline! Quite innovative, isn’t it?
We are also getting excited about The Hunger Games, which is the first in Suzanne Collins' young adult dystopian fiction series. Apparently, a certain Mockingjay character gets a starring role… maybe I’ll pick up a copy on my next train journey!
And remember, darling, if you want to find the perfect pink tutu (or any tutu, for that matter!), I suggest browsing my online store at www.pink-tutu.com. You'll find everything from classic tutus to contemporary styles and accessories, all with my own personal touch!
I’m off to practise my pirouettes, dear readers. See you next Tuesday for another time-travelling #TutuTuesday. In the meantime, remember to live life to the fullest, and don’t be afraid to twirl in style! 🩰💖
With love,
Emma xx
