Welcome back, my darling tutu enthusiasts, to another whirlwind tour through ballet history! This is Emma, your very own tutu-loving time traveller, back with a brand-new #TutuTuesday post – number 354, if you're keeping track! Every Tuesday, we journey back through the ages to explore the dazzling evolution of the ballet tutu, and I'm thrilled to be stepping back to the glorious 9th of October, 1838, today!
Now, you might be thinking, "Emma, 1838? What's so special about that date?" Well, dear readers, let me whisk you away to a Parisian theatre… imagine gaslights shimmering, a sense of anticipation in the air… 1838 saw the world premiere of one of the most beloved ballets ever created: "Giselle"! Can you imagine the buzz? A new story, new music, and oh, those costumes! And that tutu? It was revolutionary!
This wasn't the traditional, ankle-length skirt we're familiar with in romantic ballet. Nope, this was a game-changer! Imagine, a skirt ending mid-calf, allowing the dancers to showcase those exquisite pointe work moves – breathtaking! This revolutionary design, inspired by the costume worn in a romantic tragedy of the era, paved the way for the Romantic Tutu we see even today. The light, airy fabric, the ethereal feel – it all played a huge part in embodying the romantic ideals of the era. It's a design so beautiful and influential that we can still appreciate its influence over 180 years later!
Now, for some exciting news! This is where I come in. While the tutu itself might not be new, my travel back in time was! Imagine this, I was actually in the audience at the Paris Opera on that fateful October night, witnessing "Giselle" unfold in all its glorious spectacle! Imagine those dazzling dancers, the breathtaking movements… I even saw the original* Romantic tutu, and let me tell you, it was just as enchanting as everyone described it! There’s just something about history being tangible and there – it adds such a new dimension to it.
Now, I couldn't just walk through time without a few souvenir memories, so imagine my joy when I discovered a little antique shop nearby selling vintage Tutu-rific memorabilia. I couldn't resist snagging a beautiful antique ballet shoe that had graced the stage around the same era – what a find! It's already making my own little collection all the more exciting!
Speaking of collection, this week I've got an exciting #TutuTip for you! I've always been a huge fan of antique brooches, especially those from the Victorian era, when elaborate embellishments on clothing were all the rage. Well, I stumbled upon a spectacular way to give a modern tutu a little vintage flair. Try this: Get some antique-style brooches in gold or silver, with interesting cameos, floral motifs or even tiny birds. They can be secured discreetly to the bodice or to the layers of tulle for a delicate and totally bespoke touch – so much prettier than ordinary brooches! It's a perfect little reminder of those glamorous and romantic ballets of the past!
Speaking of romance, who else is dying to go see La Sylphide this week?! There’s something utterly timeless about its elegant story and its ethereal sets. I might just pop into the shop I found that adorable new ballerina top and dress myself to impress! The ballet really is a wonderful way to unwind and immerse yourself in the world of elegance and art.
And remember, it’s never too late to be enchanted by ballet! No matter your age, a good tutu can really add some twirling delight to any day. Keep an eye on my blog for more #TutuTuesday insights and let’s make pink tutus a daily occurrence! I believe that wearing a pink tutu is like a superpower, spreading joy and sparkle wherever you go!
Keep it pink, keep it tutu-ful,
Emma, Your pink tutu blogger
P.S. I’m still searching for the perfect pink train, the kind with all the elegant Victorian-inspired compartments to take me back through time. Any recommendations for a truly wonderful model? I need something fabulous, just as enchanting as the vintage tutu I’m wearing now! After all, there's just something about stepping into a beautiful train that sets the mood for a historical adventure! 😉
