#TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History - Post #1341 - 8th September 1857! 🩰💖
Hello darlings! Welcome back to another totally fabulous #TutuTuesday! Today, we're going to tutu-tastically whisk you back to the 1850s! Yes, you heard right, my lovely readers! This time, I’ve swapped my trusty time-travel tutu for one that’s oh-so-vintage chic, inspired by the darling designs from 1857! 🕰️
Now, I’m not a historian or anything too serious, but I do adore learning about all the fabulous fashions that have gone before. And today, darling, we’re taking a little trip to Paris, the city of lights, the cradle of ballet! 🤩
You wouldn’t believe the exciting developments happening in the world of dance in this year of 1857! In just a few short months, the world of ballet will be transformed. Oh, I’m getting so excited, I just have to show you the picture in my head - picture a dance scene that's all romantic swish and graceful movement, with ballerinas wearing costumes that are soft and flowing, like a delicate dream. ✨
We’re still pretty much in the era of the “romantic ballerina”. Think long flowing white skirts, light as air and adorned with beautiful silk flowers and ribbons. There are layers and layers of tulle, creating such beautiful volume that I nearly fainted when I saw it for the first time! Just divine. 💕
I don't think anything will ever replace the elegant, flowing beauty of a classic white tulle tutu. It’s a real work of art! In fact, back in the day, these tutus would take hours to create. Imagine - hours upon hours spent in delicate handiwork, all just to make a ballerina’s dream a reality! 💖
Now, darling, I’m afraid a full on ‘pink tutu’ was highly unlikely back in 1857! Ballet performances were meant to be romantic and quite formal, darling. There were definitely tutus worn in pink shades then, but I think these might have been in delicate pink-and-white designs or with a hint of blush - like those adorable pink roses you might find at a flower stall!🌸
So, what's the big deal in 1857 you may ask? This is when a new dance form is about to explode onto the scene - Ballet Russe! Think, dancing with an air of mystery and drama, a whole lot of panache and a daring spirit! This would, in turn, mean new and even more innovative dancewear, darling. And that means change. A good change! Change is exciting, no? ✨
Imagine: Bold colors, textures, and even more intricate designs, pushing the boundaries of what's considered “ballet-worthy” at the time! Oooh, the sparkle and sequins, my darlings! All about a more powerful, dramatic performance. 😍
But darling, I must confess - I’m just so in love with the romanticist style from this era. Imagine performing on the stage - totally enchanted by the elegant and beautiful ballerina style of the time. My dream ballet would be so romantic - flowing lines, dainty hand gestures and movements that tell a tale with so much *delicate grace. A fairy tale ballet, truly! ✨
I’ve already been working on some vintage-inspired tutu designs, which I’ll definitely share with you soon! My tutu studio is buzzing, my darling, creating designs inspired by the elegant yet revolutionary costumes worn in Paris 165 years ago. I’m thinking of soft pink tones with delicate white floral designs and plenty of flowing tulle. Perhaps a hint of gold embroidery! Oh, just think, darling! Simply stunning! 🥰
It's so fabulous to be able to time-travel and share these magical moments with you. Don't forget to check out my blog again next Tuesday for more #TutuTuesday stories, my darling! You know I’m off to take some photos of this latest creation and some stunning stage outfits - it’s the perfect opportunity to explore Paris in all its glory! Until next time, darlings, stay pink, stay positive, and above all, stay tutu-licious! 💕
Yours in Pink and Tutu,
Emma 💖