Hello, my darlings! It's your favourite time-travelling tutu enthusiast, Emma, and welcome back to #TutuTuesday, the weekly blog where we journey through the history of ballet and celebrate the beautiful, twirling wonder that is the tutu! Today we're hopping onto the train, headed straight to Paris in 1847, just in time for a very special occasion...
1847 - A Flourishing Era for Fashion and Dance1847, my dears, was a fabulous time to be in Paris! The city was buzzing with creativity, and fashion was as dazzling as a thousand twinkling stars. The crinoline was the must-have silhouette, a grand cage of boned petticoats that gave skirts an impressive and billowing form. I, of course, couldn't resist trying one out myself! The train ride was a delight; the ladies in their sweeping crinoline dresses, their hats adorned with delicate feathers, were all such a wonderful vision of colour and charm. And my darling, you wouldn't believe the hat shop I stumbled upon! Oh, the fascinators! They were simply irresistible, so naturally, I bought two.
Mademoiselle Taglioni and the Tutu’s First Steps!Now, while the Parisian streets were brimming with fashionable elegance, let's step into the theatre for a glimpse of the glorious ballet world. Remember, dear readers, the tutu as we know it is still very much a developing form, evolving from the earlier, looser style, the 'tunique', which was much less fitted. But oh, the changes were coming, and they were coming with a bang!
On this very date, May 11th, 1847, a momentous event happened! It wasn't a premiere of a new ballet, but it was, however, a milestone for tutu history. Mademoiselle Marie Taglioni, the famous ballerina known for her graceful movements, showcased a newly designed tutu, one that would reshape the entire aesthetic of ballet fashion.
Her new creation? A gloriously flowing white silk tutu. It was much shorter, extending only to just above her knees, and boasted several layers of tulle, allowing it to expand with every turn and leap, creating an almost magical illusion of light and motion. It was truly a triumph, and one that sent ripples throughout the dance world! This new "short tutu," as it came to be known, would pave the way for even more exciting changes and variations, eventually becoming the iconic silhouette we associate with ballet today.
Ballet and The Rise of Fashionable InspirationThink about it, darlings, this time period was a glorious age of discovery. Not only were new dance steps being born, new music being written, but new fashion styles, and even new colours, were constantly being introduced. The world of fashion, both in the theatre and in the streets, took inspiration from the exciting and innovative world of ballet, and it truly was a two-way street! The ballet embraced trends in fashion, while the wider world embraced the elegant aesthetic of the stage. This intertwining of worlds is a magical thing, wouldn't you say?
Fashion Tips Inspired by Mademoiselle TaglioniNow, a little something to add to your own wardrobe, inspired by Mademoiselle Taglioni and this thrilling period!
Go for Flowing Silks and Graceful Lines: Remember that airy silhouette? Flowing fabrics are absolutely essential for capturing the essence of this era. Try a light silk skirt in a soft colour. Don't be afraid of some delicate embellishments; they'll only enhance the drama and charm!
* Embrace the Romantic Spirit:* Flowers, frills, lace, and even ribbons can truly embody that delightful "romanticism" that pervaded this era. Don't shy away from the bolder colours! I adore a beautiful teal or ruby shade. Remember, colour is a key ingredient in the recipe for fashion excitement!
Make the Most of Layers: Just like a multi-layered tulle tutu, the key here is layering your garments! This gives a luxurious volume and texture that will turn heads.
Let’s Discuss: Tutu History’s Exciting PathOf course, it’s a great idea to get your feet into your finest shoes (or slippers!), and we can dive into the comments. Let me know:
- What are your favourite colours to wear in a tutu? (Pink, naturally!)
- Which ballet era do you enjoy most, and why?
- Would you like me to do a time travel post on any specific year or era in ballet history?
Keep spreading the pink tutu love, darlings! I’ll be back next week with another delightful #TutuTuesday post, sharing more exciting stories from ballet’s rich and beautiful history. Until then, twirl, shimmer, and embrace the magic!
P.S. If you find yourself travelling through time in Paris, make sure to visit the iconic Opera House - I promise, the fashion is fantastic!
See you soon!
Emma xx
