Hello lovelies! Welcome back to my #TutuTuesday adventures! This week, I'm hopping on the train (gotta love the romance of steam-powered journeys!) to whisk you away to a truly fascinating era: December 20th, 1836. Hold on to your tutus, darlings, because it's time to discover the magical world of ballet's evolution!
For those who haven't caught my previous posts, this week is a part of my ongoing quest to explore the historical side of my absolute favourite item: the ballet tutu. While we think of them as whimsical and utterly enchanting today, these fluffy symbols of elegance weren't always around!
I've been diving into archives, scouring books, and even finding treasures in museums. It's been an absolute adventure. Think of it as a tutu-infused treasure hunt through time! This week, we're uncovering a significant point in ballet's history, where the tutu was taking its very first graceful steps!
1836: A Whirlwind Year for Ballet!So, why are we focused on 1836? Well, this year was pivotal for the ballet world, my darlings! It saw the rise of a new star on the scene, the spectacular ballerina, Marie Taglioni. Now, you may not have heard of her, but Marie was one of the most celebrated ballerinas of the time!
Her skill wasn't the only reason she captivated audiences, though. No, she's known for being the first to wear a tutu like we know it! This magical creation revolutionised the way ballet was perceived, making dancers graceful like sylphs. (That’s the inspiration for the most beautiful ballet “La Sylphide,” which premiered in 1832 and set the trend!)
You know I've had to hunt down some truly amazing fashion finds to help me capture that iconic Marie Taglioni look! And trust me, I’ve found the perfect match! Just imagine: a beautiful ivory tulle skirt, light and airy, shimmering with tiny sequins – almost like sparkling dewdrops! A sweetheart neckline adorned with a single delicate, silk rose, the perfect finishing touch! I know I must share this ensemble with all of you, so stay tuned for my full Parisian re-creation for next week's #TutuTuesday!
Tutu Timeline: Back to the 1700s!Now, darling, you must understand that these revolutionary changes didn’t happen overnight! Let's step back into time, a few decades earlier. In the late 1700s, the stage was completely different. Dresses were long, heavy, and often far too cumbersome for the kind of movement ballet demanded. I can’t imagine the sweat and discomfort, my dears!
Thankfully, a group of progressive ballet masters were already dreaming up a better future for their craft! It's through their creative genius that the tutu evolved into the beautiful piece of garment we cherish today!
My Favorite Ballet Outfit Today!As I sit here writing in my favourite café in Paris, where I’m touring the city, watching a show on this lovely December day (and browsing the Parisian boutiques, naturellement), I can’t help but think of the incredible talent and inspiration of these artists. They created such a breathtaking tradition!
It's actually so exciting to think how the tutu has inspired and evolved, while still holding onto that same romantic charm, that elegance and fluidity that sets it apart from any other fashion choice. My favorite ballet dress, just for the day (it’s tough to choose, I admit!) is a gorgeous powder-pink tutu from a boutique in Derbyshire. The lace bodice is incredibly flattering and adds a touch of playful femininity to the look. With my pale-pink velvet ribbon-tied pumps, I simply feel like a ballet dream. You all must get one, too, of course!
I am absolutely besotted with pink. The way it can go from soft and dainty to powerful and vibrant is enchanting! It's all about making a statement – but always with grace, and a dash of that irresistible feminine flair. Don’t be afraid to express yourselves with a pop of colour – or even a whole outfit of pink!
Join me for More Tutu Adventures!Well, that’s all for this week’s #TutuTuesday, darling! Don't forget, we're all about celebrating ballet's history, the magic of tutus, and most importantly – embracing that inner tutu-loving ballerina that's within every one of us!
Until next time, remember, let your life be as whimsical and delightful as the dance!
With much love,
Emma, from Derbyshire, England. x
