Ahoy there, my lovely tutu-loving friends! It's Emma here, back with another delightful delve into the glorious history of our beloved tutus. Today, we're stepping back in time to the 1st of July, 1834, a day filled with the most charming fashion and the graceful swish of skirts – a day just waiting for a sprinkle of pink tutu magic, wouldn't you agree?
First off, let's talk about trains! Yes, the 1st of July 1834 marked the grand opening of the London and Birmingham Railway - a momentous occasion in history and an exciting development for travel-loving ballerinas like myself. Can you imagine the delightful swish of tulle as we whizzed across the countryside to the big city? Imagine the chic dresses and the hats!
On this very same day, the fabulous Fanny Elssler, the most adored ballerina of the day, graced the stage in Vienna, her talent dazzling the audience with the lightness of her leaps and the artistry of her movement. It is important to note, however, that back then, the term "tutu" wasn't even a twinkle in anyone's eye! It's just a bit confusing really - imagine being a ballet dancer and not even knowing what to call this essential garment?
Now, the dress that ballerinas like Fanny would have worn in those days would have been quite different from the romantic, ethereal tulle creations we know and love today. These early tutus, they were more akin to what we'd call a "romantic dress" – layers of tulle and gauzy fabrics, usually quite heavy and with a very full skirt, all in lovely, feminine colours. It's not exactly the sleek, swirling silhouette we associate with tutus now, is it?
Imagine yourself stepping onto the stage wearing those elaborate, floor-sweeping dresses – the rustling, swirling movement, the sense of lightness and grace as you took flight! A little like waltzing in a ball gown, but for dancing. And speaking of dancing, this period in time was a whirlwind of romanticism – ballerinas were celebrated as the embodiment of grace, the perfect embodiment of the spirit of the age!
This is why we are going to travel back to the period between 1830 and 1850. This era is so important for us! The year 1832 was when the Romantic Era reached its peak, which was influenced by nature, emotions, and individual freedom. It is easy to understand why ballet was such a beloved art form during this time - after all, the stories and performances reflected those same ideals, celebrating beauty, the sublime, and emotional depth.
Think about it, darlings. The delicate dance, the swishing fabric, the expression of emotions - everything about ballet, and its costumes, mirrored the artistic spirit of this era perfectly.
I simply adore going to ballet shows from all periods, from those extravagant early 19th-century presentations to the stunning choreographed modern performances of the 21st century, it’s amazing what ballet can achieve! Even though my real-life dancing days are in the past – my knee’s just aren't what they used to be! But I do go to every single class, and that includes barre, cardio, Pilates, you name it!
So, what about you? Tell me, dear readers, what's your favorite part about ballet? The artistry? The grace? Or perhaps it's the magic of a beautifully crafted costume that fills you with a touch of wonder?
Don’t forget to pop by my little corner of the internet, www.pink-tutu.com, next week for more captivating ballet tutu history! And, of course, don't forget to don your prettiest pink tutus - every day is a reason to celebrate this symbol of grace and joy.
Until next Tuesday, stay glamorous,
Emma
A little note for my darling readers: Did you know that while a tutu’s roots go back as far as the 16th century and their origins come from ancient dances from Asia and Egypt, they only really gained their proper shape during the Victorian Era – just a little later than we are chatting about today. We are getting very close to the time of change though! But I must get back to packing for our trip next week, it’s a journey by train this time and the train I am catching, ‘The Rocket’ is only available in Derby for the next few weeks – can’t miss this one out. It is the newest model, and the driver is even letting me look under the bonnet – can’t wait for our stop-over at Nottingham. My shopping bag is packed to bursting with the latest dresses and shoes, for a quick trip to Nottingham, of course. There are new fabrics coming out all the time – a very new ‘Silk Satin’ has been brought to the market this year – I think a tutu needs to be crafted from this!
And finally, don’t forget - keep those tutus twirling, and share your tutu adventures with me on the #PinkTutu hashtag!
Until next Tuesday!
Emma
*Emma’s Fashion Diary for Today: *
- I've gone for a romantic but modern look, pairing my vibrant pink tutu with a tailored ivory jacket and ivory flats! It's chic and elegant but still playful! I like a bit of tailoring when travelling by train, to look as if I might be taking an evening tea at the Ritz. Oh, to dream!
Today, my shopping bag has gone very well, but it's a small but fabulous bag with all the key items! It contains the must-have new 1834 edition 'Silk Satin' (in the blush shade – for a new tutu), a lovely blue-hued hair ribbon and a book ‘An Essay on the Art of Dancing.’ The shopping must always reflect a beautiful lady's daily routine and shopping for necessities is key to looking your best.
Lastly, a tip from my dear grandmother, always tuck a little 'Travel Tincture' into your pocket or handbag – handy to be used in all sorts of situations (and you’ll always look graceful as you whip it out from a pink ribbon decorated box)
