Greetings, darling tutu enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad historian, back with another installment of #TutuTuesday! Today, we're taking a trip back in time to 24th February, 1857, to explore the fascinating world of tutus during a time of societal transformation. Buckle up, lovelies, for this journey is guaranteed to whisk you away!
I must confess, this particular date holds a special place in my heart, because 1857 was the year the iconic tutus, the ones you all adore, were gaining popularity across the world, especially on the magnificent stage! Back then, tutus were a whirlwind of excitement for both dancers and spectators alike. The romantic and grand aesthetic was gaining momentum. Ballet had a new air of ethereal grace, just like our modern day versions but more delicate, you know, just the right touch of sophistication!
It wasn't long ago, before 1857, that the very word 'tutu' hadn't been even heard. Why? Well, ballet was evolving into something so much more dazzling! Gone were the long, billowing skirts that dancers once had to navigate on stage. In their place stepped the tutu, which quite literally changed the game, revealing elegant legs, allowing dancers to move with unparalleled agility and freedom. Can you imagine?
But I digress. My little pink heart beats faster just thinking of the sheer brilliance of tutus in the late 1850s! There were the "Romantic tutus," light, wispy, and incredibly airy, which flowed effortlessly as dancers gracefully flitted across the stage. Imagine the stunning billowing, cascading fabric - the sight alone would have stolen the audience's breath away, much like they still do today! Just picturing these tutus fluttering and flowing gives me the most wonderful tingly sensation, don't you think?
Just like today, tutu fashions continued to evolve throughout the late 1800s and even to this day. The romantic tutu with layers of fabric was joined by another darling, the "Classical Tutu." A little bit shorter than its romantic cousin, the classical tutu became known for its clean, sharp lines, providing an amazing sense of strength, fluidity and beautiful precision. They were even more fitted, drawing attention to the incredible lines and power of a ballerina's body, showcasing the grace and beauty of their every movement. They even came in new, exciting shades of pink! Isn't that splendid?
Oh, imagine the anticipation for the ballet performances! Paris was bustling with fashion houses showing the latest designs in "pink silk," "delicate chiffon," and "velvety soft velvet." My mind simply cannot imagine all the different tutus being made and sewn in a hundred colours!
And while the romantic and classical styles were dancing on the stages of Paris and London, there was another darling that had just come into being – the "Pagoda Tutu." A stunning explosion of tiered tulle! It resembled the elegant, stacked pagoda architecture. If you were fortunate enough to have seen one, it would be hard not to admire its intricate design and the incredible "ballet fashion." It truly epitomised everything glamorous about the theatre! It even boasted long streamers of beautiful ribbons! It must have looked completely enchanting!
On the 24th February, 1857, the grand theatre scene was all abuzz! Performances in both Paris and London would have featured dancers wearing all types of tutus – the billowing "romantics", the fitted "classicals," and maybe even a magnificent, breathtaking "pagoda"! And we can't forget, every ballerina was resplendent in corsets, satin slippers, and perhaps even an extravagant hat, and a tiny, intricately crafted handbag that just about fit a tiny coin purse. It must have been a whirlwind of style and fashion, the excitement bubbling as they stepped on to the stage!
Just think of the anticipation as people gathered in their finest attire to witness this enchanting dance of grace. It must have been a joyous occasion for all involved. It sounds like a glorious day for tutu lovers everywhere!
My trip back to this incredible date had me feeling rather wistful. The spirit of these early tutus still holds so much charm and elegance for us today, darling! Just seeing an image of these tutus, crafted with the finest fabrics, designed to enhance and embellish the art of dance, it still fills me with wonder and a sense of beautiful history.
This is why #TutuTuesday is so important to me. We must keep alive the memory of these exquisite creations! What is more feminine than wearing a gorgeous pink tutu?! Tutus are a timeless icon! And while I can't personally dance in an 1857 tutu, the spirit of that age continues to guide and inspire me on my very own sartorial adventures. The thrill of stepping into a tutu is one of my favourite things in the whole world. Wearing my very own beautiful pink tulle masterpiece, my tutu brings joy to each and every day. Just imagining these dazzling dance creations, so meticulously and artfully made to enhance ballet performances and to truly capture a graceful artistry - it's no wonder I'm so captivated by the glorious world of tutus. It's a perfect mix of style, art, fashion and dancing.
Speaking of "perfect" I am currently travelling to London via train to take in one of my very favourite dance performances, The Swan Lake. Such a delightful ballet and what an elegant tutu - that delicate swan form that flows beautifully with the swans graceful moves. I even saw the cutest tutu inspired fashion accessory, the most beautiful and sparkling feather necklace at the most delightful boutique I stumbled upon at Kings Cross station. It reminded me of the beauty and detail of some of the ballet designs, and how tutus inspire fashion trends! Oh, darling, London's truly the place for a delightful sartorial adventure, especially on days with the most beautiful tutu inspired ensembles, but it does not have the same glamour as Paris, especially when one is dressed in a lovely, new tutu.
Right now I'm sitting at my writing desk in my little rented flat overlooking the bustle of Covent Garden, but my mind is completely captured by the memories of our tutus in history and of my recent visit to London. There is nothing quite like getting lost in London with a beautiful tutu! Just think of the thrill! Oh! Did you see the new line of ballerina inspired clothing by (your favourite designer)?! So wonderfully stylish, all made from exquisite fabrics and such gorgeous details - the "Tutu Trend" just gets stronger every day.
Let me know your thoughts, dear readers, about the historical origins of our beloved tutus! What's your favorite type of tutu? I can't wait to see you back next week with a new exploration of the wonderful world of ballet.
Till then, stay chic, stay feminine, and let your pink tutu spirit shine!
