Tutu (clothing)

[3] It is suggested the expression came from the abonnés playfully patting the back of the tulle dress with the saying pan-pan cucul (French for I'll spank your bottom).

[citation needed] A third, related theory suggests a derivation from the more vulgar French word cul (which can be used to refer to the bottom or genital area).

This is supported by the description by nineteenth-century balletomane, Charles Nuitter, who defined tutu as "a slang term for the very short petticoat worn by danseuses in the interest of modesty.

The part of Creuse in Noverre's ballet Jason et Medée was danced by Mlle Guimard who wore a pale dress in 1770.

[6] Towards the end of the 18th century, female dresses had higher waistlines and became slimmer as well; dancers appeared to begin dancing without panniers (hips hoops to accentuate skirt designs) for a more natural theme that displayed the human body and allowed more freedom in movements.

Skin-colored tights were also worn with these evolved form-fitting costumes to preserve modesty, but replace the unseemly shapes of knickers.

During the twentieth century, the tutu reached its peak form with a platelike shape; French critic André Levinson highlighted the contrast between the stiff and immobile features of the skirt and the energetic and alive movements of the dancers.

[6] The tutu's simple design and timeless class are the product of countless adaptations to finally present the dancer in a flattering light.