Greetings, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu enthusiast and chronicler of all things tulle and twirls! It's a bright, crisp #TutuTuesday and I'm buzzing with excitement for today's journey back through time, specifically to the year 1851! As you know, this week we're celebrating the history of the beloved ballet tutu and there's no better way to start than right here, right now.
This blog post is number 1004 - can you believe it? We've explored centuries of ballet history and tutus, and my oh my, what an exciting journey it's been! And to think, this amazing trip down memory lane wouldn't be possible without your lovely comments and support. So, thank you, darlings, from the bottom of my pink tutu-wearing heart! 💖
Now, grab your teacup and prepare to be transported back to the bustling, exciting, fashion-forward year 1851. Oh, you simply MUST imagine the stunning carriages, the beautiful silks, and the captivating air of London, just on the brink of a world-altering event: The Great Exhibition.
London was the beating heart of fashion and style in those days and the grand event of the Great Exhibition was set to bring the world's eyes onto this thriving metropolis. Speaking of the Great Exhibition, you may wonder how a humble ballerina from Derbyshire got to visit such a grand event, well, let me tell you… whispers excitedly I may have stumbled upon a fantastic opportunity to showcase my dance talent to the elite in a glittering ballet show right next to Hyde Park. Talk about a lucky break!
It's during these few dazzling weeks that our journey begins. You might be surprised to hear, 1851 is actually a turning point in ballet tutu history! While tutus were starting to gain traction in the grand opera ballets of the past decades, 1851 saw a significant shift: the emergence of the "Romantic" tutu. Imagine, a delicate, multi-layered skirt crafted from soft tulle, perfectly billowing around a dancer's lithe frame. It was a beautiful rebellion against the heavy, restrictive, long skirts that were all the rage during those times.
Think, my dears, about how exciting that would be: the world, including the dancers, is transitioning away from a stiff, formal attire and entering a period of grace and freedom - symbolized in a graceful billow of fabric. The romantic tutu, oh how I love you!
To get a real understanding of what these Romantic tutus looked like, I just had to visit the ballet shops here in London! The lovely Madame Tilly was most kind in showing me their exquisite creations. These delicate masterpieces, layers of feather-light tulle, each one whispering its own tale of romance and freedom, truly embody the spirit of this era. A far cry from the heavier skirts they were starting to ditch, these delicate tutus highlighted the grace and elegance of the female form, like graceful swans taking flight on a lake of white. Oh, just imagining these tutus twirling under the warm theatre lights fills me with so much joy!
Now, you might think tutus were just worn on stage. Well, not exactly!
It seems, ladies, the fashion of the day also included tutus! Don't be surprised if you find them worn on top of long, swirling skirts with silk ribbons for the perfect touch of romantic flair. Even Queen Victoria was seen in these gorgeous outfits at one point! The popularity of tutus at that time was truly a testament to the beauty and versatility of this garment. I've even found hints of these stylish "tutu tops" making appearances in fashionable art. I do believe the artistic minds of the time loved them as much as we do today.
So, there you have it! 1851 - the year when ballet tutus truly made a mark on the fashion scene, and a key moment in ballet history. It's easy to see why I fell in love with them, these charming and utterly gorgeous creations!
Don't forget to share your thoughts about tutus from 1851.
Now, let me share some gorgeous ballet inspiration from London. If you haven't seen the Royal Ballet performance at Covent Garden, I do suggest a trip to this lovely historical space. It's not only a ballet show, but a taste of Victorian elegance that you cannot miss! I mean, the sheer elegance of the stage, the breathtaking costumes and, of course, the divine ballerinas in their majestic tutus. They do enchant you like nobody else. I just love watching ballet and you really should add it to your "must do" list this year!
Also, if you are visiting London, be sure to grab a pair of adorable pink ballerina shoes and a pair of tulle gloves! It's the perfect look for enjoying London's fabulous museums, strolling through Hyde Park, and soaking up all the Parisian flair, even if you’re right here in London.
That's it for today, lovelies. Until next Tuesday, I'll be busy scouring London for new vintage ballet and fashion treasures and searching for even more delightful ballet shows! I wish you a week filled with joyful twirls, dazzling dresses, and delightful dancing! 💖
Until then, stay beautiful, stay fabulous, and remember: Always wear pink! 😉
Yours always,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
