Greetings, darling tutu enthusiasts! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you away on another magical journey through the captivating history of ballet!
This week, my time machine deposited me in a rather sweltering Paris, on the 27th of October, 1840. Fancy that, I can practically hear the excited murmurs and rustling of silks in the air! Paris is undoubtedly the hub of ballet, where fashion and dance intertwine to create a truly breathtaking spectacle. And believe me, it's no less spectacular now than it was nearly two centuries ago!
You might be surprised to learn that the tutus we associate with ballerinas today, those airy masterpieces of tulle and feathers, weren't the norm back in 1840. In fact, ballerinas were still draped in elaborate, heavy, multi-layered skirts – far from the light, graceful lines that became their trademark later in the 19th century.
But hold on, dear readers, for there's a delightful tale to unfold!
Just imagine yourself stepping into the Opéra Garnier, its gilded interior shimmering under the light of hundreds of candles. The air thrumms with anticipation. It's the night of "La Sylphide," a legendary ballet in two acts by Jean Coralli, with choreography by Auguste Bournonville and music by Jean-Madeleine Schneitzhoeffer.
Think of "La Sylphide" as the "Romeo and Juliet" of the ballet world. It’s all about forbidden love and ethereal creatures! Our heroine, the Sylph, is played by the graceful, Carlotta Grisi, renowned for her delicate, expressive style, who just so happens to be in her early 20s - what a lovely age to be! I wonder if she likes tutus!
Now, imagine my surprise when Carlotta makes her grand entrance in... a skirt made of a light, semi-transparent fabric! The design allowed her to move with an unprecedented grace and agility! Now, you're thinking, "Ah-ha, Emma! That's how the tutu came to be!" And you're absolutely right! While we don't know the exact name of this skirt at the time, its use in "La Sylphide" marks a pivotal moment in ballet history!
But remember, darling friends, ballet and fashion are forever intertwined. While "La Sylphide" revolutionized movement and design in ballet, the 'Fashionable' women of the time were in awe! Imagine wearing a silken dress, cascading to the floor, with delicate, floral prints – a vision of elegance and romance! The corset was still all the rage, cinching in waists for that coveted "hourglass" figure. Now, personally, I find corsets to be a bit...constraining, but the fashionable Parisians just adore them!
Speaking of fashion, can we talk about the shoes! I've always been partial to a delicate pointe shoe, myself, but shoes in 1840 weren't as specialised. Ballet shoes were much more sturdy, made of leather and reinforced with straps, offering more support than elegance! It seems the ballet world was still figuring out its shoe-situation. Don’t worry, darlings, my next trip will bring you the history of the Pointe Shoe – be sure to keep an eye out for my post on #PointeShoeTuesday !
And the train? Oh darling! You haven't seen luxury until you've stepped onto a train back then. All rich, dark woods and luxurious upholstery! We can't talk about history without acknowledging its nuances, can we? While fashion was making a grand leap towards freedom and movement in Paris, other places, sadly, were much more restrictive. Even as the era progressed and the tutu came into full bloom, the beauty of its form and design wasn't a universal reality, which made it all the more exciting, for some!
As I stand at the station, preparing for my return, I’m already planning my next stop! This time, it’s to witness the glorious Victorian era, with its emphasis on full, flowing dresses – but more on that next Tuesday!
For now, my dearest readers, embrace your inner ballerina, and if you’re daring, channel your inner fashionista, and find your own special brand of elegance!
Keep your tutus twirling and your spirits bright, until next Tuesday!
With love and sequins, Emma xx
P.S.Don't forget to check out our shop at www.pink-tutu.com for the latest pink tutu creations! You'll be sure to find your perfect shade and design for all your fashion adventures!
Stay fabulous!
