Hello my darlings, and welcome back to another enchanting edition of #TutuTuesday, where we whisk you away to the world of ballet's history!
I'm Emma, your ever-so-slightly-obsessed tutu-loving blogger, hailing from the picturesque county of Derbyshire, England, but always finding myself hopping on a train to chase the next ballet performance, the most stylish gown, or a peek into fashion history. This week, we're going back to the 30th of April 1844! Now, that year was bursting with style, and this very day in particular is one that left an undeniable mark on the history of the ballerina's most magical costume - the tutu!
So, picture this: You're in Paris. Yes, darling, Paris! The very city that breathes style. You're nestled in a theatre, the warm air carrying the scent of jasmine, the music of a string quartet rising and falling around you, the rustle of silk as the audience settles in for the night's grand performance. And there, dancing on stage in the soft candlelight, are the graceful figures of ballerinas wearing… you guessed it! The **very first tutu! Now, don’t be fooled - it didn’t quite look like the airy tulle we see today, but a much fuller, longer, more dramatic version - imagine a wide, full skirt with lots and lots of ruffles. The whole effect? Pure magic, and an absolute game changer for ballet!
This momentous occasion occurred with a ballet called La Jolie Fille,* starring Marie Taglioni. The ballet tells a story of a beautiful girl, chosen to become the guardian spirit of a country. It was truly a groundbreaking performance, for Taglioni wasn’t just an ethereal dancer – she also took to the stage in this newly-designed, revolutionary, oh-so-feminine outfit. And let’s be honest, darling, La Jolie Fille was as much about the beautiful girl and her dazzling, dreamy attire, as it was about the dance itself. This innovation? It wasn’t just about a fancy frock. It changed the entire art form, letting the ballerinas move freely, showing off the intricate movements of their art.
This very day, 30th of April 1844, marked the start of a truly special chapter in the story of the tutu. Now, we might adore the airy lightness and the playful silhouette of today's tutu, but without that first, romantic, and bold move back in Paris, our favorite garment wouldn't have reached this magnificent, magical stage!
Of course, it was only a starting point. Over the next few decades, the tutu continued to evolve, morphing, swirling and twirling alongside changing fashions and evolving dance forms. And every single one of those variations had a unique story, an interesting inspiration and a passionate creative spirit behind it.
But right here, right now, let's celebrate the first magical, enchanting tutu, born in a world full of romance and glamour. So, darlings, as I step out in my own bright pink, perfectly whimsical, tutu tonight for a grand soirée in Covent Garden, I hope you'll find your own special way to celebrate these remarkable garments and their timeless history! Because darling, a little twirl can change the world!
Don't forget to subscribe for all the latest tutu adventures and, most importantly, spread the love of tutus! I’m on a mission to see everyone twirling around in pink! Until next #TutuTuesday, I wish you all an amazing week full of fashion and fancy footwork.
