Hello darlings, and welcome back to my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History! It's a blustery day in Paris today, but don't worry - I'm tucked up cosy in my little boutique hotel, sipping on some delicate pink tea (must keep that figure for the performance tonight!), and ready to share all about the magical world of the ballet tutu.
As many of you know, I have a penchant for pink, a deep love for anything to do with ballet, and an absolutely unyielding passion for the gorgeous, swirling garment that is the tutu.
So, settle in, darling, because this week we are taking a little trip back in time, all the way to March 15th, 1836. Now, I know what you're thinking - 1836! That's way before the tutu was even invented! But, my dears, this date is significant for a very important reason: It's the birth of the ballerina's costume as we know it!
Let's step back into the Belle Époque, shall we? Back in those days, the ballet stage was quite different than what we see today. Ballerinas wore long, billowing skirts, almost like crinolines! Imagine a dancer struggling to pirouette under all that fabric - it would be like trying to spin in a giant, silk dress!
It was the visionary, talented Marie Taglioni - yes, the same Marie Taglioni whose legacy we still cherish! - who revolutionised the way we look at dancers. In 1836, she premiered in "La Sylphide", wearing a dress that was designed to resemble an ethereal spirit. The skirt of this new dress? It was made from layers upon layers of tulle - a lightweight, delicate fabric! - which floated around her like gossamer wings.
Now, while it's true the garment she wore was still pretty long compared to our modern-day tutu, it was the precursor to this essential element of the ballerina’s outfit. The design was groundbreaking! Imagine the freedom of movement - imagine being able to actually twirl and soar! It's no wonder the audience went wild.
Of course, it took time for the concept of the shorter tutu to gain its full popularity. The Victorian era still valued its long, billowing gowns. It was only gradually, over time, that the shorter tutu emerged and blossomed into its glorious, swirling, full form. And, of course, we owe a HUGE debt to Carlotta Grisi, another legend of the dance world. In her performances as "La Sylphide," she even sported a much shorter tutu that allowed her the ability to actually jump! Now, imagine that! Can you just picture her graceful jumps, like a bird soaring through the air? It was truly captivating, my darlings.
Now, let's hop back to our current century for a bit of fun. What was happening in the ballet world today, March 15th? Well, let me tell you! I caught an amazing performance of the "Nutcracker" in a beautifully adorned theatre in Brussels. I was lucky to sit near a delightful, charming group of fellow ballet enthusiasts who showered the performance with roaring applause. The little ballerina who played the role of Clara was truly adorable - I can tell, from that sparkling performance, that she will grace the stage with stunning ballets for many years to come. It makes my heart soar, knowing such incredible talents are flourishing today.
The stage design was absolutely exquisite too - like a magical winter wonderland. The music transported me straight to that enchanted land! I also did a little shopping (of course!) after the show. The selection of ballet shoes in this charming Brussels boutique - just the sweetest little boutique tucked away on a charming side street. And wouldn't you know it - I snagged a pair of darling pale pink ballet slippers! They practically match the lovely tulle ribbons in my latest acquisition: a deliciously pink and shimmering tutu that I plan to debut in a solo performance in Nottingham next week!
Speaking of solo performances, darling - if you're a ballet enthusiast, I must tell you that the next few weeks are full of truly exciting ballet performances in London, Brighton, and right here in the capital! From world-famous ballerinas to local schools with burgeoning talent - the scene is absolutely brimming with enchanting performances. So, put on your favourite pair of shoes (maybe a comfy pair, perhaps some delightful ballerina flats), grab a lovely hat - preferably a delectable shade of pink, darling! - and join me on a whirlwind tour of balletic bliss.
This coming Saturday, I will be joining my good friend, the marvellous Maggie - she's the sweetest, most stylish florist you'll ever meet, my darlings! - for a lovely picnic on the banks of the Thames. Of course, Maggie is going to put together a perfectly themed floral arrangement, to be featured on the blog this week, so you don’t miss that.
And you all know I just have to tell you about the grand railway trip I have planned for next week, right? A scenic ride aboard a grand, Victorian-era train - all the way to the majestic city of Edinburgh! The grand railway station here in Paris is bursting with life, with its charming passengers and those lovely little tea carts (and who wouldn’t adore the sound of clinking glasses and excited chattering?). I always get that thrill of adventure just thinking about stepping onto a train!
Remember to tag #TutuTuesday in your own photos of your ballerina outfits and adventures. It makes me so happy to see all your gorgeous tutus in their glorious colour. And remember, dear friends: If I can inspire even one person to try a pink tutu - why, that will be a grand, magnificent triumph!
And until next week, darlings -
Keep those tutus twirling!
Emma 🩰 💗
www.pink-tutu.com
