Post Number 656
Greetings, dear tutu-lovers! Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, ready to whisk you away on another magical journey through ballet history! Today we're hopping aboard the time-train and travelling back to the 23rd of July 1844 - a date when the tutu was still finding its feet in the world of ballet, much like a little dancer learning their first steps.
Oh, darling! I just adore stepping back into history. It's like slipping into a vintage frock, but with a time-twist! The air crackles with excitement as you picture the costumes, the choreography, and the stories swirling around those historical ballets. And let me tell you, it's a sight to behold!
The 23rd of July 1844 might not be a particularly momentous date in ballet history, but it's significant for the sheer buzz of creative energy and excitement bubbling beneath the surface of the dance world. It’s around this period that we begin to see the emergence of what we would call today, "the traditional ballet tutu." It was a time of shifting trends, experimentation and most importantly, freedom. Freedom for female dancers to break free from restrictive, heavy garments and express themselves through fluid movements. The emergence of the tutu symbolised this changing tide - it embodied lightness, grace, and freedom! It was almost a declaration of a new era in dance!
Now, let’s imagine ourselves whisked away to the beautiful Parisian Opéra. We’re seated in the theatre, eyes sparkling as the lights dim, anticipation building with a hush that settles on the audience like a fine tulle veil. This era, it’s all about drama and beauty. Imagine long romantic storylines. Think lush velvet backdrops and opulent costumes. Now envision that swirling skirt of billowing white tulle taking centre stage - a dance-scape that's as ethereal and dreamy as a Parisian spring day.
But, darling, this is just the beginning of the tutu's journey! Think of it, these tutus were barely there, wispy as a butterfly's wings! They were about to explode into a kaleidoscope of styles, textures and lengths – and it’s these developments that make my tutu-loving heart sing!
Before we leave 1844, let me paint a little picture. Think of dancers on pointe, their limbs stretching into graceful arcs. Imagine the tutu, the quintessential ballerina’s adornment, a subtle yet symbolic symbol of liberation. It signified a shift in the perception of the female dancer, moving away from restrictive corsets and towards a celebration of elegance and fluid movement.
Oh, this fashion journey just takes my breath away. But don't think that we have reached the end of this journey, darlings! In future #TutuTuesday posts, we’ll journey to different eras, explore the impact of fashion designers, delve into the historical significance of different styles - from the classical to the modern tutu!
You see, tutus have always played an important role in ballet. And for us tutu-lovers, it’s more than just fabric and frills. It's a reflection of art, culture, and a story of movement!
That’s why my aim in life is to get everyone to wear a pink tutu, because every woman, at their core, is a ballerina waiting to be unleashed!
And if I need a break from all this excitement, you'll find me chasing tutus through vintage stores on the Derbyshire streets. Or you’ll find me indulging in a sumptuous slice of Victoria sponge - it's the ultimate post-ballet show treat! After all, what is a tutu without a little bit of cake and tea?
Until next time, darlings!
Emma x
**Remember to follow us on www.pink-tutu.com and let me know your thoughts about this Tutu Tuesday - I adore reading your comments! Do let me know if you’ve been to see a ballet show this week and tell me what tutu caught your eye!
Love, Emma xx **
