Hello lovelies, and welcome back to another fabulous #TutuTuesday! Today, we’re taking a little trip back in time to the oh-so-romantic 1850s – and yes, darling, tutus were already stealing the show back then! 💖
It’s 6th August 1850, and oh my goodness, the excitement is in the air! We're in Paris, and the fashion scene is buzzing. Why, you ask? Well, my dears, we’re only just a few days away from the premiere of Giselle at the Opéra Garnier – and wouldn’t you know it, but those little white tutus are just about to take the stage by storm!
It's been quite a journey getting here. I’m actually travelling around Europe right now, hopping from theatre to theatre, enjoying every ballet and show I can possibly squeeze into my itinerary! It’s a pretty exciting life, let me tell you. 🚂
Now, you may think that this beautiful white tutu, that little darling we know and love today, is a recent invention, but its history is actually a bit longer than that, my sweeties.
The idea of using tutus in ballet first blossomed during the early 19th century, in the dreamy land of France! Think of Marie Taglioni, darling – the absolute epitome of grace and artistry, she helped set the stage for this exquisite garment. Before Marie, ballerinas danced in more traditional long skirts. Now, imagine, the freedom! Those shorter tutus just exploded onto the stage and gave them an airy lightness, like butterflies on pointe. They really let their movements sing!
But, you know, tutus in those days weren’t always the delicate, elegant creations they are today. Early tutus, particularly the "tutu romantique," were quite voluminous and were usually constructed using a wide layer of tulle. This made them quite stiff and certainly weren't as light as we’re used to! *Think of a cloud of tulle! *☁️💕 Honestly, you had to see them.
As we head further into the 19th century, the tutu started to evolve, becoming slightly less voluminous. That's because the styles started to follow the lines of the ballerinas’ movements more, showing off all the beautiful grace. The first real "classical" tutu, you know, that beauty we’ve all grown to love, arrived on the scene around 1840s, and, well, it became the must-have accessory for all the most fabulous ballerinas! 💖
It wasn’t long before the little tutu became an icon of ballet – it was like that bright pink shade I'm wearing today, it was simply irresistible! Even now, with every passing year, the tutu is always evolving – there are more than just those traditional designs you’ll see in a classical ballet now! I’m talking all sorts of styles - there’s that stunning romantic tutu, for instance, perfect for a magical story, and even some more experimental designs you’ll find in the modern world of ballet.
There is, of course, a reason why I’m so enthralled with those early tutus. You see, my darlings, my life is filled with dance and its wondrous world of creativity and expression. I travel everywhere by train and get to spend my time watching the most magnificent ballet shows, experiencing the breathtaking theatre performances, and - gasp! - I'm completely obsessed with the stunning, intricate beauty of vintage fashion! *Tutus have played such a huge part in ballet's rich history – they’re just an inseparable part of it! * I even buy clothes in local shops whenever I can! I simply adore getting dressed up in the most delightful pink, pastel, and vibrant colours I can find - especially the most incredible, luxurious fabrics and trimmings - they are simply divine! And of course, all my lovely dresses feature beautiful tulle, just like my tutus!
My biggest dream, though, my absolute desire, is to encourage the whole world to embrace the wonderful joy and creativity that tutus represent! Why wouldn't you want to have some delightful pink, frothy fun? They bring an air of playfulness, fantasy, and endless possibility! The beauty of a well-designed tutu simply mesmerises me. They are truly works of art. Even I, a ballerina of some renown, can’t resist taking inspiration from this historical delight.
Speaking of history – remember the date we're on? August 6th, 1850, darling. If you ever have the chance to go back in time, take a trip to Paris, see what's happening, and if you are lucky, perhaps even experience the sheer beauty and excitement of that first showing of Giselle!
See you next Tuesday, my lovelies! Until then, let’s make every day feel like a glamorous ballet show. I always want to hear from you, so come join me at www.pink-tutu.com! We can talk tutus, theatre, fashion, everything! 💖
And most importantly? Don’t be afraid to twirl – wherever you are, whatever you do, let that tutu spirit take hold and dance with joyful abandon! 💃
And do give a big bonjour to those charming 19th-century Parisian tutus for me. 💕 They are true darlings!
Much Love and Many Twirls, 🩰
Emma
