Hello my lovely tutudlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where all things pink and twirly reign supreme! Today's #TutuTuesday takes us on a trip back in time to a most magical era: the year 1855! Buckle up, darling, because we're about to delve into the delightful history of the tutu!
Now, as any self-respecting tutu enthusiast knows, the tutu we adore today has undergone quite the evolution. Picture this: 1855. Paris is buzzing with creative energy, and the world of ballet is experiencing a golden age. The Ballets Russes haven't quite graced the stage yet, and The Nutcracker is still waiting for its big debut.
It was during this time that the iconic tutu began to emerge. But wait, darling, before we jump ahead, let me tell you a little story about myself...
My name is Emma, and I'm a Derbyshire girl, born and bred, but with a soul that's forever been drawn to the enchanting world of ballet. I've always dreamt of pirouetting under the shimmering lights of the stage, feeling the magic of the music and the freedom of movement in my pink tutu. And what a way to experience the beauty of history than to wear my passion like a shimmering badge!
I've learned a thing or two about time-travelling in my tutus - don't try it at home, dear! (I've got a knack for finding my way back). Each week, I bring back my experiences and insights for my fellow tutu enthusiasts!
So, let's go back to 1855...
The ballerinas of this time, oh, how graceful and delicate they were! Their costumes were far removed from the layered tulle masterpieces we know today. Imagine billowing silk skirts that barely reached their knees - almost like a flowing, elegant nightgown! They weren't quite ready to shed those petticoats and let their legs dance free!
Enter Marie Taglioni, a dazzling ballerina whose leaps and turns captivated audiences everywhere. She dreamt of showcasing the dancer's limbs in all their glorious movement, and with that inspiration, the tutu began to emerge.
Now, let's picture it. Marie is practicing at the barre in a flowing skirt. Suddenly, she stops and cries out, "I want to show my legs!" Imagine a flurry of scissors and sewing needles working feverishly to cut those silk skirts high!
Tada! There it is - the first iteration of what we now know as the tutu. This was just a whisper of the ballerina's legs, hinting at their exquisite grace!
Now, fast-forward a few years to 1858 and let's visit La Sylphide in the Paris Opera. A dramatic vision! Ballerinas danced in skirts that reached almost to the ground, creating a mesmerizing effect! These were called Romantique Tutus! This look became a hit. The ethereal dance moves looked so exquisite against the dramatic contrast of the long fabric.
It wasn't until the early 1880s, that Marie's dream became truly realized with the creation of the tutu we adore today - a breathtaking creation made entirely of layers upon layers of tulle, so lightweight, allowing for elegance and boundless leaps!
But 1855 is an important marker! That is the year when our love affair with the tutu truly started. Marie's passion for expressing her art ignited the revolution of the tutu, a garment that would change the history of ballet! It's a moment we can all celebrate!
Speaking of celebration, what better way to mark #TutuTuesday than with a visit to the theatre, or a spot of afternoon tea in my favorite pink tutu?! I shall take a trip down to Covent Garden for a ballet show, where the magical evolution of the tutu is proudly displayed. Afterwards, I might just pop into a shop like Liberty London or Fortnum and Mason and add a little something tutu -like to my collection! It’s all about making our dreams of being the pink-tutu princess a reality!
This time-travelling has made me hungry, dear! I better be on my way. I have a big plate of scones waiting for me with lashings of clotted cream. Be sure to stop by my blog next week. Until then, keep twirling and embrace the joy of a pink tutu! #PinkTutuPrincess #BalletHistory
