Greetings, my lovelies!
It’s Emma here, back with another fabulous edition of my weekly #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog, live from... well, whispers... 1842! Can you believe it, my darlings? My time travelling tutus are taking me back in time to the Victorian era this week, just to show you how the fabulous tutu has evolved over the decades. You won’t believe what’s going on here in London!
Remember, the aim here is to celebrate the magnificent tutu, the iconic symbol of dance. Let’s face it, you simply cannot have a ballerina without one, can you? Even today, our stunning tutus continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The graceful twirls, the exquisite designs, the sheer elegance – tutus embody the joy and magic of dance like no other costume can. So grab a cuppa and settle in, my dear readers, because this journey is a pink one indeed!
From Courts to Stages: The Tutu’s First Steps
Now, you might think that the tutu just appeared, fully formed, on stage, ready for twirling! Not quite, my dears! The story of the tutu is intricately intertwined with the evolution of ballet itself. Way back when, around the 15th and 16th centuries, ballerinas wore elaborate dresses that hindered movement, you see! It was more about displaying beauty than movement! And let's be honest, those stiff gowns weren't much fun to dance in.
In the 17th century, ballerinas began to wear less-restrictive garments that allowed more flexibility – and that was a revolution, darling! Imagine, actually being able to move gracefully! These designs were still quite bulky, and sometimes included petticoats, but they marked a shift towards something more free. But it was the French revolution that truly sparked the transformation! You see, with their strict hierarchy, the aristocrats favoured lavish clothes, even on the stage. Then, in 1789, a big, fabulous, chaotic thing happened – The French Revolution! In that exciting time of change, everyone suddenly loved simplicity. Ballet attire mirrored the societal shift, becoming less flamboyant and embracing a more streamlined aesthetic. That, my darlings, laid the foundation for the tutu as we know it!
Marie Taglioni and The Birth of the Romantic Tutu
Hold your hats tight, lovelies! The 1840s were a period of great beauty, thanks to Marie Taglioni, one of the most celebrated ballerinas of all time. With a dedication to effortless grace, she changed the dance world forever. You see, Marie wasn’t satisfied with those cumbersome gowns. She was a true trendsetter who envisioned a different approach to dance wear. She craved an outfit that embodied movement and beauty – something flowing, light and enchanting! And oh my, was she a trendsetter!
The Romantic tutu, as it was known, was born! It was light and airy, crafted from layers of tulle with a single layer of silk at the hem, and reached the ground! Imagine a ballerina in this, moving with effortless elegance, like a delicate butterfly in motion.
Today, 1842
The 1840s is when the romantic era blossomed in ballet, darling! The era is all about passion and drama – perfect for an exciting time of change in both theatre and dance, isn't it? And, naturally, we wouldn’t be true to ourselves if we didn't celebrate the tutu!
This Tuesday, my dear reader, we are marking a truly important date! Just think: 1842, my dears. Marie Taglioni and other iconic dancers were performing across Europe, enthralling audiences. This is the heart of ballet, this is where it was established, and it's where we see the tutu reaching the heights of its early glory. Can you believe it? Just imagine all those lovely, frilly tutus swirling onstage! Just picture a charming ballet dancer gracefully dancing with this enchanting garment; it's so mesmerising.
This Tuesday, you might want to visit a local theatre if you can – check what's happening on stage near you, even today, darling! The romance of ballet from this period is truly something special! The grace, the charm – it's enough to melt even the stoniest heart.
Tutu Trends for the Trendy Lady
Now, ladies, if you want to bring that 1840s romance into your modern wardrobe, let’s talk tutu styles. This era wasn't about bright colors, but for you, my lovelies, a dazzling pink romantic tutu is just the thing! A soft, airy tulle, falling gracefully, a hint of sparkle – perhaps a little velvet or lace for that 19th century charm, my darlings! But that’s just me! What do you love to wear? Let me know, I adore reading your lovely comments!
This blog is all about discovering, exploring, and celebrating the history of tutus. Let’s spread the magic of the tutu together – why don’t you tell me, my dears, what you wear to your favourite ballet? Tell me in the comments section. Let’s continue spreading the fabulousness together, with pink, grace and sparkle!
Until next time, darlings, happy twirling!
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
