Hello my darling tutu enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome back to my blog, www.pink-tutu.com, for another instalment of #TutuTuesday. This week, we're taking a trip down memory lane (with a little bit of train travel thrown in!) to the 16th October, 1832, and boy oh boy, do we have some exciting fashion revelations in store!
As you know, I'm a firm believer in embracing the glorious history of the tutu, and believe me, its journey has been one sensational spin. Today's historical fashion expedition is taking us to the very heart of where tutus reign supreme - the land of ballet itself: Paris, France! Now, in 1832, things were quite different than they are today. The romantic era in ballet was in full swing, and with it came some fascinating costume trends.
Just imagine the scene - cobbled streets, elegant carriages, and a bustling atmosphere overflowing with fashion inspiration. Forget your usual ankle-grazing skirts and structured bodices. This period is all about showcasing the graceful movement of the dancers with flowing, light fabrics that truly embrace their every move.
While the tutu we know and adore wasn't quite in its iconic form just yet, you'd be surprised by how close we are to seeing its origins! Think a bit like a ballet-inspired Victorian era silhouette - delicate fabrics, soft tulle, and those absolutely adorable short skirts that hinted at what was to come! Oh, the anticipation, darling!
What were Parisian fashionistas wearing?
Well, the 1830s saw the rise of the "Romantic Style" in clothing. Think flowy silhouettes, lightweight fabrics like muslin and gauze, and an emphasis on elegance and femininity. Lace was a popular embellishment, and embroidery was used to add detail to everything from dresses to shoes! Remember, the aim was to enhance the ballerina's natural grace, not to restrict her movements.
Let's talk tutus!
As I mentioned earlier, the tutu was not quite the iconic shape we know today in 1832. In the early days of the Romantic period, ballet skirts, which we could definitely consider a very early form of a tutu, were quite long and usually reached to the ballerina's calves, like a short dress. However, those delightful fabrics, oh my! They flowed and billowed, giving us a hint of the revolution to come!
But back to our Parisian adventure…
You might be wondering what the highlight of this date was, and for me, dear readers, it's nothing short of exciting. On this very day, the illustrious Marie Taglioni took the stage in the iconic role of La Sylphide, captivating audiences with her elegant movement and grace. Now, this isn't just any performance, this marks a turning point in the history of ballet! La Sylphide is regarded as the first Romantic era ballet masterpiece, with its dreamy, ethereal themes and light, almost floating movements.
What does this have to do with our beloved tutus, you ask? Well, for one thing, the costumes designed for this show - including Taglioni’s - were incredibly light, giving us a beautiful glimpse into the future of dancewear. While these costumes wouldn't have been tutus in the modern sense, they marked a clear transition towards shorter, lighter skirts, emphasizing the ballerina's graceful movement and leaving behind the heavier, restrictive styles of the past.
Shopping in the City of Lights!
Oh, the delights of Parisian fashion! I simply cannot resist a good trip to a Parisian boutique, and just imagine the delightful garments you could have found in 1832. There was so much emphasis on fine craftsmanship and detail in that era - elegant lace, delicately embroidered fabrics, and an air of sheer, feminine beauty that never fails to enchant. I simply have to pop in and find some pretty accessories to match my own collection of tutus!
Don't forget to #TutuTuesday!
As you can see, the story of the tutu is one that is packed full of style and grace. It's been a long journey, but one we're so grateful for. I am truly fascinated by the way ballet costume evolved over the years and seeing how a ballerina's attire has come to reflect both her movements and the spirit of the dance itself.
Remember to share your love for the tutu on social media! Post your favourite tutu moments, tag your pictures with #TutuTuesday and share your historical ballet discoveries! I'll be back next week with another exciting instalment in our tutu history. Until then, my darlings, don't be afraid to add a little twirl to your day!
With much love and twirls,
Emma
P.S. Have you seen my latest tutu collection at www.pink-tutu.com? From soft pink ballet classics to dazzling purple showstoppers, there's a perfect tutu out there waiting for you! Remember, my mission is to get everyone in a pink tutu - it's time to embrace your inner ballerina! 😉💖
P.P.S. I hope you've enjoyed our time-travelling adventures. Remember to check out my #TutuTuesday posts every Tuesday on www.pink-tutu.com - and if you're feeling extra enthusiastic, send me some of your favourite vintage ballet photos or fashion sketches! Who knows, I might even share them on the blog! 💖
