Greetings, darling tutu enthusiasts! It’s Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveller, and today, on our weekly #TutuTuesday escapade, we’re going all the way back to December 7th, 1841, right here in the heart of Paris!
Can you believe it’s already December? It seems like just yesterday we were basking in the Parisian sunshine during the long, languid days of summer. But here we are, December’s crisp air nipping at our noses and the air thick with the scent of roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate. Ah, winter in Paris! It’s absolutely divine. I can’t resist the urge to slip on a fluffy pink knitted scarf, the perfect accessory to a day spent indulging in the city's myriad delights, wouldn’t you agree?
Now, onto today’s #TutuTuesday topic. Let’s journey back in time, and find out what was happening in the ballet world back in December 1841. Well, as a certain French ballerina called Marie Taglioni was gracing the stage, captivating audiences, and dazzling in her iconic white tutu, there’s something else we need to talk about!
This date in ballet history wasn’t solely focused on the elegance of Marie’s performance. While her “The Sylphide”, first performed in 1832, set the stage (pun intended!), for ballet’s evolution, today's ballet story is a bit of a departure.
Yes, our darling ballet was evolving into the world of intricate costumes and exquisite technique, but in 1841, something equally captivating was taking place. Something that actually had a significant impact on fashion and women's lives! Can you guess what it was?
Think about it… the rise of ballet meant a rising need for those delicate, exquisite garments that allowed the dancers to move with grace and elegance. What was considered essential to help create that effortless flow and delicate movement?
Yep, you guessed it - the invention of the "Crinoline"! The date was 7 December 1841 when this iconic structure made its public debut at the Theatre du Gymnase in Paris. The crinoline was invented by Charles Frederick Worth and was truly revolutionary.
Imagine it, darlings. A gigantic, elegant cage structure of horsehair that dramatically expanded the skirts of the time, allowing women to float through the city with a sense of ethereal lightness and glamour. Just like a ballerina, you see?
Now, while I can’t imagine twirling on pointe in one, the crinoline transformed Parisian fashion. It provided structure and volume that empowered women, pushing the boundaries of traditional dress And its evolution eventually led to the creation of the iconic bustle, which was also instrumental in the progression of women’s fashions!
The influence of the crinoline on ballet may not be immediate but it helped usher in a time of fashion evolution, inspiring new fabrics, techniques, and innovations. That eventually benefited dancers and designers in creating those iconic, billowing tutu creations.
So, darlings, let’s all raise a glass of champagne (or perhaps a sparkling elderflower cordial, for those of you, like me, who enjoy a touch of sweetness!) to the crinoline and to Charles Frederick Worth for his pivotal contribution to fashion history. His impact on women's fashion, even on ballet, was remarkable and deserves all the kudos.
Before you dash off to take your daily tutu twirl, darling, do share your thoughts in the comments section below. What is your take on the impact of the crinoline? How do you think it influenced ballet, even if it didn’t make its way onto the stage?
I'd love to hear your musings and opinions. I’ll be reading your comments with a cup of Earl Grey tea and a sweet croissant - perhaps even twirling in my pink tutu as I do!
Until next Tuesday, darlings!
Emma
XOXO
P.S Did you know I can find vintage tutus at some of the most stunning shops in Paris? It’s pure magic, darling! Just imagine those vintage lace fabrics! This weekend, I’m exploring the cobbled streets of Montmartre for the latest and greatest vintage tutu treasures. Oh, and if you’re in London, head over to the beautiful Liberty of London department store. You might just discover a tutu treasure or two. Happy tutu-shopping!
P.P.S. And don’t forget to stay tuned for next week's #TutuTuesday! We'll be taking a closer look at the magnificent costumes worn by ballerinas during the Romantic era!
