Hello, lovelies! Welcome back to Pink Tutu and another fabulous #TutuTuesday, my weekly foray into the wondrous history of our favourite garment: the tutu! 🩰💖
Today, we're taking a delightful trip back to March 26th, 1833. Imagine, ladies, that the crisp spring air is whipping through the cobbled streets of Paris – oh, the romance! This city is alive with art, culture, and… ballet! It’s no surprise that Paris is where the story of the tutu truly begins.
We’ve all heard tales of Marie Taglioni, right? She was the ultimate ballerina, her steps and grace unmatched, her movements like ethereal wisps of air. But before she sashayed onto the stage in the first real tutu – a shortened tutu (gasp!) – we have to delve into the fashions that paved the way.
Think of those gorgeous dresses you see in old portraits of ladies back then, those big puffy numbers! Now imagine reducing that bulk and revealing the leg, all the way to the knee, dare I say? This was revolutionary!
In 1833, Marie’s “La Sylphide” caused a real sensation with the short tutu making its debut. The romantic era of ballet had officially arrived, bringing with it a change in both music and dance, and the evolution of the tutu – just think how wonderfully daring it must have felt, exposing so much of the leg. Ooh la la! 💖
Speaking of daring, can you picture the outcry? Some found it a tad too unconventional at first, too bold! Can you believe that?! Honestly, sometimes I do long for those good old days… if only to witness the tutus in all their lovely flowing glory. 😉
Now, the real exciting news… March 26th 1833 saw not just the brilliance of a new ballet, but a celebration of one of ballet’s greatest, Carlotta Grisi. Can you imagine being a celebrated ballerina, a true icon, performing for adoring crowds!
But there’s another amazing tidbit for you lovely ladies. What was trending that very same year? Why, a revolutionary change in ladies' dress - and it's all thanks to one woman! Think loose fitting – less layers, more fabric! Imagine the excitement as ladies embraced a simpler, more graceful style that mirrored the beauty of the new ballet, with flowing tutus taking centre stage!
Back then, tutus were constructed with multiple layers of tulle – can you imagine, each layer hand sewn? What dedication, and the finest of craftsmanship, ensuring those tutus floated and danced effortlessly. Now we don't have to make all those beautiful tutus by hand but can buy beautiful designs readily available in any colour. And you simply cannot beat that vibrant pink colour... the colour of ultimate feminine delight!
Now, I must dash off, dears! Time is of the essence for me – and who knows where this next Tutu Tuesday will take us? Until next week, stay twirling in your gorgeous pink tutus! And don't forget, share your love for the tutu with the world – #TutuTuesday, the world awaits!
Love,
Emma xx Pink-Tutu.com
