Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things tutu-tastic! It's Tutu Tuesday, so let's step back in time and take a peek at ballet history. Today we're going all the way back to 1834-05-27th. Hold onto your tiaras, darlings, because we're about to travel on the wings of time!
Now, this date isn't just any ordinary day. It's the birthday of Marie Taglioni, one of the most celebrated ballerinas of the Romantic era. Can you believe it? We're talking about the very woman who revolutionized ballet with her ethereal style and light, airy movements. Marie's grace and technical virtuosity changed how people viewed ballet, making it more delicate and romantic than ever before!
But even more importantly, for us tutu-lovers, Marie was the absolute epitome of The Romantic Era. Can we talk about how fabulous this period was? Everything about it, from the music to the fashions, oozed drama, passion and unbridled beauty. It was the perfect moment for a new type of ballet costume: the tutu as we know it!
You see, dear readers, before the 1830s, ballerinas danced in what looked very much like skirts - full and heavy, perfect for pirouette-hindering steps. But Marie, in a revolutionary move, donned a tutu! It was still quite long, a midi-length if you will, reaching her knees with tiers of soft tulle, but its light, diaphanous texture allowed her to soar through the air with incredible agility. Can you imagine the impact this must have had? The audience must have gasped at the sight of a ballerina moving so freely, seemingly weightless in her graceful movements!
But here's the real secret: The beauty of the Romantic era tutu didn't stop at just showing off its wearer's graceful movements! It was the fashion of the time. Ladies of the upper class in France and England were adopting soft, romantic fabrics, lightweight and airy with puff sleeves, wide necklines, and delicate details, all in soft pastel hues. Even bloomers (Yes, I know it sounds crazy, but I adore their billowing shape and airy style!) became en vogue at the time!
Think of it! This entire culture was about airy, flowing, light and delicate design. The Romantic tutu was not only the perfect embodiment of Marie's revolutionary movements and the graceful style of the period, but also became the icon of Romantic Era ballet. It was, to quote my favorite 19th-century novelist, “a true masterpiece of art”!
You see, darling, ballet is about much more than the dancing itself. It's about the music, the storytelling, and the visual spectacle of a whole world of beauty embodied within each performance. The tutu, at this time, was the most dramatic and effective symbol of this beauty, bringing both grace and fashion into a mesmerizing theatrical art form.
Oh, but don't think for a minute this period is just for Romantic tutus *! Think of those fabulous 19th-century ballerinas – Marie, Carlotta Grisi, Fanny Cerrito – dancing under grand crystal chandeliers, wearing stunning jewels, and shimmering in intricate hairdos! The drama and glamour of the Romantic era was captivating and truly inspiring, much like ballet itself! The perfect time, if I may say so myself, to wear a beautiful pink *tutu, my darlings!
Today's tutu recommendation? * Well, *don't forget a beautiful silk sash, draped across your bodice, perhaps a soft floral pattern in your choice of a pale blue or lavender! Remember, the perfect tutu should evoke that beautiful femininity and graceful elegance.
And if you are dreaming of tutus, don't forget to stop by my favorite store The Fabric Centre! It’s like a wonderland for fabrics, from satin and chiffon to lace and tulle. You’ll find everything you need to create your own magical tutu creations.
See you next Tuesday, darlings! Remember, every day can be a Tutu Tuesday! Wear pink, spread love and never be afraid to embrace the beautiful, dreamy world of ballet!
- XOXO Emma
About Emma
Emma is a time-traveling blogger from Derbyshire, England. A ballet enthusiast with an ever-present, beautiful pink tutu in tow, Emma is dedicated to bringing the beauty of ballet to everyone. She loves traveling in time via ballet performances, visiting and experiencing fashion and shopping, all while collecting precious, enchanting moments and stories she loves to share with the world!
Don't forget to share your #TutuTuesday stories with me! Comment below, on my socials, or on www.pink-tutu.com.
*Love to hear all about your beautiful, ballet-tastic days! *
