Hello my darling tutu lovers! Welcome back to another edition of Tutu Tuesday, where we journey through the glorious history of the tutu and uncover its fascinating evolution. This week, we’re taking a trip back in time, all the way to the 17th of March 1835! Can you imagine, tutus were only just beginning their journey to ballet stardom!
I hopped on the train earlier this week, feeling quite giddy to arrive in Paris - the centre of all things stylish and the undisputed heartland of ballet. Oh, the fashions, my dears! The sheer excitement of stepping into such a world!
Now, in 1835, tutus were not quite the billowing masterpieces we know and adore today. Think more en pointe with a hint of ‘let's show some leg’! The romantic era was sweeping across the stage, and ballet was blossoming. Gone were the heavy skirts that restricted movement and ushered in an era of light, airy, and dramatic choreography. And you just can't get dramatic without a slight hint of scandalous, wouldn’t you agree?
The ballerinas of this era (and you’ve got to admire their bravery!) would have worn a skirt that was barely above their knees, perhaps a layer or two of tulle, sometimes featuring elaborate trimmings and a bevy of ruffles! Just imagine! Now, let me tell you, these beautiful creations were designed to allow them to fly across the stage, executing those magnificent movements.
Think back in time to that iconic moment. It’s a time when dancers are exploring the limits of their abilities! Can you picture the awe of the audience as these bold ballerinas took to the stage, showcasing their delicate steps with a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ ?
This journey through time reminds me just how important it is for us to experiment with our tutus and embrace the evolution of ballet style. A little experimentation, and lots of pink, never hurts, you know! I have an exciting little announcement – later this week I will be unveiling a brand new, hand-crafted tutu creation, a glorious nod to the romance and elegance of this era. Keep an eye out!
You know, in the heart of the fashion capital, I couldn't resist indulging in a delightful bit of shopping! The shops here are a ballet fan's paradise - exquisite fabrics, delicate laces, and oh my, the tulle! I bought several rolls – you can never have too much tutu fabric, darling.
To celebrate the glorious legacy of the tutu, I’ve already booked tickets for the Opéra Garnier. Can you imagine, it's a majestic theatre and home to so many stunning ballets! It’s a must-see if you’re ever in Paris.
And, just to make things even more interesting, I am having a lovely picnic in the Tuileries Garden today – just me, my pink tutu (naturally!) and my sketching pad. My dears, you’ve got to imagine, the Parisians and their love for fashion, the whole scene is a delight. I shall, of course, share my sketches with you in my next post, where I promise you a fascinating delve into 19th century dance costumes.
*And now, the grand finale of my little Paris sojourn: The Palais Royal! It's a beautiful building where some of the first grand operas, and, wait for it... ballets took place in the 17th century! Imagine the excitement of the first ballerinas leaping and twirling, in their *not quite tutus - perhaps a touch of revolutionary elegance and daring that paved the way for what we know and love today!
Don’t forget to tune in next week as we journey through the vibrant history of the tutu. Until then, may your tutus twirl and your hearts sparkle!
With love from Paris,
Emma x
