Welcome back, dear readers, to another thrilling #TutuTuesday! This week we're taking a delightful train journey back in time to July 18th, 1843, and, as always, we'll be focusing on the beautiful ballet tutus of the era. As you know, my passion is tutus, and that passion is why I embark on these time-traveling adventures. And just like a perfect pirouette, it's time for a graceful twirl back to the past!
Now, imagine this, dear readers, you're stepping off the train in bustling Paris. The air is abuzz with the excitement of the opera season. You've arrived just in time for the debut of "Giselle," a captivating ballet that's sweeping the city. Can you believe this? This landmark ballet marks the first time we see a ballet performance specifically focusing on a woman! I, of course, already saw it a couple of weeks back. I saw it at the Theatre de l'Opera in Paris, wearing my new cerise pink tutu! This time, I even bought myself a matching feather boa to add a little extra sparkle!
I just adore the tutus in "Giselle"! There's a very simple, pure look to them. It really suits the theme of the ballet, which tells the tragic love story of a beautiful, innocent village girl named Giselle. The beautiful ballerina, Carlotta Grisi, was a dream in this production, the tutus just floating as she danced, almost as if she was a spirit.
Now, remember, tutus in those days weren’t all about that super short look we know today, with layers of tulle billowing all around. The tutus of the 1840s were more streamlined, fitted, and less fluffy. The designers of this time were all about emphasizing the natural, graceful curves of the body, which they achieved by using lighter and less fussy fabric like muslin or gauze for the skirts.
The length, well, think about the ankles! Imagine you're swirling around with long, delicate layers. You’ve got some extra drama with ribbons flowing and creating a captivating swoosh. I think it is wonderful how tutus are all about accentuating the grace of the ballerina.
Speaking of accents, in 1843, you were in for a visual feast with intricate decorations. It’s almost like having your very own little theatre show going on, just on the ballerina's outfit! The designers had an eye for detail! There were exquisite embellishments that truly made a statement. Flowers were super popular, with everything from real blossoms woven in the fabric to beautiful ribbons and lace woven to resemble them. Think delicate roses, elegant lilies, dazzling orchids, and charming little forget-me-nots!
A stunning embellishment, popular with the Parisian fashion set of this period, were beads, oh my goodness, they were everywhere! Tiny beads in all colours - ruby red, sapphire blue, emeralds green, it just took a classic tutu and transformed it into something truly extravagant. I must admit that the "Giselle" costumes used beaded decorations on the bodice too. That certainly added some sparkle to the performance. But let me tell you, with all the beading in Paris back in 1843, you didn’t want to go out in the rain, they'd really have dragged!
*You may be wondering how to get your own taste of the tutus from 1843? * I always encourage my lovely readers to experiment, and as such I love it when my lovely Derbyshire girls and I get creative and reimagine these historical pieces in a more contemporary way. I mean, you don't need to time travel, you know, but you can embrace those Victorian details. Think about how a few dresses and floral patterns and trims can totally transform your modern-day tutu.
Just remember, the charm of the era is all about combining elegant lines with delicate, feminine touches!
Let me take you into a dream sequence, imagine, for instance, you're making a new tutu to capture this classic feel! Grab that soft tulle, make those simple layers (think ankle-grazing loveliness). Why not even go for a classic white tutu? You’ve got those gorgeous layers – a touch of romanticism. Then take some stunning fabric to really make this piece shine. What would Carlotta herself have done? The real treat comes with all those delightful decorations! Think delicate pearl accents for that classic Parisian look. A bit of a blush to match the soft tulle of the skirt and you have a wonderful, elegant Parisian inspired tutu!
Okay, so maybe not a complete reproduction, but just the right inspiration from a gorgeous time period in tutus! Don’t forget to show off your latest look!
The exciting part about tutus, you guys, is you get to be creative! Don’t forget to share them with me!
Until next week's #TutuTuesday,
Emma,
Your resident Pink Tutu Enthusiast! xx
P.S. This week, you've got to have your "Giselle" fix! Check your local dance schools! Find a performance near you, get yourself that fabulous ticket, and immerse yourself in the beautiful world of ballet!
