Tutus

A tutu is a ballet costume consisting of a skirt worn over a leotard or bodice, typically made of tulle. There are two main styles: the romantic tutu, a long, flowing skirt reaching the ankles or floor, and the classical (or pancake) tutu, a short, stiff skirt projecting horizontally from the hips. The tutu is worn with tights and pointe shoes and is designed to reveal the dancer’s leg lines.

Tutus originated in 19th-century Europe. In the Romantic era (c. 1830s–1850s), dancers such as Marie Taglioni wore long, gauze-like tutus that floated during movements, contributing to an ethereal aesthetic in ballets like La Sylphide. By the late 19th century, choreographers favored a shorter, stiffer silhouette to maximize leg visibility and support classical technique, giving rise to the pancake tutu used in many classical productions. Since then, tutu styles have varied by production, role, and tradition, with pale tones for classical heroines and more varied colors in modern pieces.

Construction typically involves multiple layers of tulle to create fullness. The upper layers are stiffened with crinoline, buckram, or other interfacing to maintain a disk-like shape. The waistband attaches to a leotard or fitted bodice, and the overall construction may differ between romantic and classical styles. Embellishments such as embroidery or rhinestones are common for specific roles.

Today, tutus remain a hallmark of classical ballet and are also used in contemporary dance and stage performances that seek a traditional ballet look. Care of a tutu usually involves gentle hand washing and air drying, with storage that preserves the shape to prevent crushing.