The tutu is one of the most recognizable costumes in ballet. First introduced in 1832, the garment has evolved over time but remains integral to performances today. Each tutu style accentuates movement in a different way, bringing a ballet’s choreography and aesthetic to life. In PNB’s upcoming 2026-27 Season, you’ll see a variety of tutu styles onstage. Read on to learn more about the distinctive characteristics of each design.
Romantic Tutu
The original Romantic tutu features a long, flowing skirt made from layers of tulle, cut between the knee and the ankle. This style of tutu was designed to make dancers appear to float effortlessly across the stage.
Examples: Serenade, Emeralds, Coppélia, and Giselle
Classical Tutus
As ballet technique and pointework developed, tutus became shorter to reveal the dancer’s legs and allow freedom of movement. There are three variations of classical tutu styles.
Diamond Tutu
This bell-shaped tutu extends loosely from the dancer’s hips. While it does not include a wired hoop, the skirt is tacked to maintain a structured silhouette.
Examples: George Balanchine’s Divertimento #15 or Marius Petipa’s Paquita
Pancake Tutu
The pancake tutu has a short, stiff skirt that extends directly from the hips, with a wired hoop to keep its shape. This is the style that most people picture when they think of ballet, and the tutu bounces as the dancer moves.
Examples: Sugar Plum in George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®, Kent Stowell’s Swan Lake, Kiyon Ross’ Sum Stravinsky
Powder Puff Tutu
The powder puff tutu is a short skirt that is loosely tacked, giving it a softer, fluffier appearance. This style does not include a wired hoop, so the skirt moves with the dancer. Because of its origins and popularity in Balanchine ballets, it is also known as the American or Balanchine tutu.
Examples: George Balanchine’s Diamonds and Western Symphony
Find more posts on PNB’s Costume Shop.
