How has the classical ballet tutu changed?
Although many people consider the tutu to be a costume that has been worn by ballerinas since the invention of ballet in the seventeenth century, the first version of this ballerina skirt was not introduced until 1832. Since then, the tutu has undergone many changes, and is still in the process of evolving.First AppearanceIn 1832, Marie Taglioni, a ballerina with France’s Paris Opera Ballet, wore a soft, bell-like skirt that fell just below her knees. This skirt, designed by Eugene Lami, is considered to be the very first tutu.Romantic TutuBecause Marie Taglioni’s tutu was premiered during the “Romantic Period” of ballet, it became known as the “Romantic” tutu style. Romantic tutus were originally made of muslin fabric, though tulle fabric soon replaced muslin as the favored material for Romantic tutus.Shorter TutusBy the 1880s, as ballet steps became more intricate, audiences were demanding to get a better look at the dancer’s physical movements. Italian costume designers responded by
