subject: How Did Tutus Get Such A Funny Name? [print this page] How Did Tutus Get Such A Funny Name? How Did Tutus Get Such A Funny Name?
]A Brief History of Ballet TutusBallet's early history started in the courts of the Middle Ages when courtiers would dance for their kings and queens. At that time this type of dance was only for the elite and the style varied widely across Europe. In the 17th century the first public ballet was performed at the Louvre in Paris and ballet has been evolving ever since. So too have the costumes. The original courtiers would wear floor-length gowns to dance in, as was the accepted form of dress in those days. However, as ballet became more and more technical, dancers' dresses became shorter and shorter to display their skillful legs and feet.Enter TutusBy the 18th and 19th centuries, Ballet had become extremely popular among the commoners and the gentry alike. While the gentry watched the show from the balconies, the commoners had a different view from the pit directly in front of the stage. Prior to the advent of underwear, dancers needed something to cover this private area of the body, commonly known back then as the "tutu". So dancers would wear a light, meshy dress attached at the bottom beneath their regular costume. Thus the tutu was born.Evolution Of TutusOver the years the tutu has evolved from a necessary covering to a strictly theatrical piece. Though still mainly made of the same materials, with some exceptions, tutus are now used as a very visible part of the dancer's costume. There are several types of tutus including the romantic tutu, which is a longer, softer dress; the classic tutu with a short bell shape; and the pancake tutu, which sticks directly out from the hips and platter tutu which comes out from the dancer's waist. Each of these styles adds its own character to the dancer as well as the dance.What's In A Name?The tutu has become such a recognizable icon in today's modern societies that some people are actually using it to name their children. Though still ranked at a modest 1131, the name Tutu increased in popularity ten-fold from 2010 to 2011, according to the Social Security Administration. As a name it has its origins in West Africa and can also be a Spanish variation of the name Justin.Tutus In FashionOver the past few years, specifically 2010, tutus have found a place on the catwalks and fashion runways and in our closets. From wedding dresses to prom dresses to pageants and playing dressing up, the tutu has crossed over from the dance stage to everyday life. Tutus have now emerged from behind the scenes to take center stage.
