Hello, darlings! It’s Emma, your resident tutu enthusiast, and today we’re whisking back to a time before tulle was commonplace - September 27th, 1842. This week, my time travel has deposited me in the heart of Paris, the City of Lights and, perhaps even more importantly, the cradle of ballet! Now, while tutus may seem synonymous with ballet nowadays, in 1842, it was a very different story.
The tutus we adore today weren’t even a glimmer in a ballet master's eye. The early days of ballet were all about long, flowing skirts – a far cry from the short, wispy tutus we know and love. So, what did dancers wear back in the early Victorian era?
Well, imagine this: a very dramatic costume made of layers of silk and taffeta – often embellished with flowers and ribbons! Imagine it as a billowing cloud, rather than the lightweight, elegant silhouette we associate with tutus. It’s quite hard to imagine dancing en pointe in such a cumbersome creation, but that's the ballet world for you, darling – all in the name of artistry!
The ballet stage was abuzz, however, with an air of sophistication and theatrical excitement. Even if the costumes were not quite what we know, the artform itself was truly burgeoning. You see, 1842 saw a landmark moment in ballet history: the birth of the École de Danse, which marked the start of a systematic, professional training system for dancers. It was an era of exciting advancements, paving the way for the graceful ballet technique we admire today. It’s truly fascinating to imagine these dancers, striving for artistry in the early stages of the world's most celebrated dance form.
And speaking of ballet, I can’t let a trip to 1842 go by without mentioning the Paris Opéra, a place overflowing with theatricality and elegance. The dancers were absolute stars - the public were smitten with the glamorous, beautiful movement of ballet, and the sheer athleticism and skill were captivating audiences!
Despite the lack of tutus, the 1842 scene was filled with beautiful colours and intricate details. Think silks, satins, and elegant lace – an absolute symphony for the senses!
Let’s rewind, back to our time! Don’t worry, lovelies, this week we are definitely embracing the tutus we cherish. After my 1842 escapade, my suitcase overflows with lace trims, ribbons, and feathers to add a little 19th-century charm to my own tutu designs. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll add a layer or two of fabric to my usual tutu – think of it as a homage to those billowing skirts, just a tiny bit less restrictive!
Don't forget to share your favourite tutu looks on our website using the #TutuTuesday tag! I love seeing all your creations! Until next week, darlings, stay twirling!
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
