Hello my lovely Tutu Twirlers! It’s Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu enthusiast, back with another #TutuTuesday post.
This week, we're whisking you back in time, ladies, to the enchanting era of 1848! Now, picture this: the world's still in black and white (figuratively speaking, of course!), and ladies are sporting bonnets and corsets. Sounds stuffy, doesn't it? Well, prepare to have your preconceptions delightfully turned on their heads!
Why 1848? Well, my dear readers, on 23rd May, 1848, something utterly fantastic happened...the very first ballet performance of 'Giselle' took place in London! Can you believe it? Imagine a whole world just discovering the magic of Giselle, a tale of love, betrayal, and ultimately, sacrifice - a real page-turner, just like a good ballet!
Now, you might be wondering, "Emma, what's the connection between 1848 and tutus?" Well, you see, this is where it gets really interesting! Although the tutu as we know it wouldn't emerge until a little later in the 19th century, the style of 'Giselle's' costumes significantly influenced ballet wear. Gone were the bulky, restrictive skirts of the past. In stepped the airy, light, and utterly feminine *Romantic' style. It was all about highlighting the dancer's grace and movement. Think billowing sleeves, graceful flounces, and tulle that could literally make you swoon.
Imagine my joy upon seeing the ethereal outfits in 'Giselle'! The first ballerina to grace the stage with the new Romantic look was Carlotta Grisi - quite the icon, ladies. I just adore those flowing, feminine styles, and I bet Carlotta did too.
And the fun doesn't stop there! This was the era of The Royal Opera House and The Sadler's Wells Theatre! I can just imagine myself, strolling into London with my oh-so fashionable new bonnet and a touch of je ne sais quoi, taking in a breathtaking performance. Now that’s my idea of a fun day!
But what really sets this date apart, my friends, is that the ballet took place right here in London - and my fellow Derbyshirians, you know just how much I love a good journey by train. It would have been absolutely delightful!
You see, dear readers, even way back then, ballets weren't just about performances - they were a spectacle, an experience, and a trend-setter. So, the next time you slip on your tutu, just think: the dance, the design, the era, and the impact of 'Giselle' – we owe a lot to that 23rd May, 1848, and the power of a ballet.
I'm so grateful for the time travel that allows me to witness these important milestones in ballet history, especially the ones that shaped our favourite fashion item - the Tutu.
Until next Tuesday, darling Tutu Twirlers, remember to twirl your way into the week with confidence and grace. Let the world know you're ready for anything, dressed in a beautiful shade of pink, of course!
And don’t forget to follow my adventures on www.pink-tutu.com, and share your own Tutu Tuesdays with #TutuTuesday!
Much love,
Emma
P.S: Can’t wait to hear about your favourite ballets and your memories from past #TutuTuesdays in the comments below. Remember, every time we step into our tutus, we’re creating our own ballet stories!
