Greetings, fellow tutu-lovers! It's Emma here, back again with another #TutuTuesday delve into the wonderful world of ballet's most iconic garment! Today, we're whisking ourselves back to the 16th of February, 1858. Oh, my, darling dears, prepare to be absolutely charmed because today is the birthday of a tutu revolution!
We’re going to be exploring a significant moment in the history of dance - the unveiling of the “Romantic tutu,” which marked a crucial shift in ballet’s aesthetic, leaving behind the rigidness of earlier designs, and embracing a style that was as airy and light as a whisper! ✨
But first, a little travel update! My recent performances in Vienna have been just utterly delightful, don't you think? Such incredible energy in the audiences. As for myself, I’ve found the most divine shade of blush pink satin - a must-have for my upcoming tour of Paris. Can’t wait to pick up some delicate lace trims from the Rue de Rivoli.
Now, back to the glorious world of tutus! As we journey back to 1858, let’s envision the elegant Parisian theatres… the stage, awash with the soft glow of candlelight… the rustle of silks as ballerinas, with delicate, wispy tulle skirts that cascade about their ankles, dance their hearts out!
What we see unfolding on the stage is a ballet that brought to life a completely new feeling: ethereal, fantastical, and a bit of magic. The "Romantic tutu", with its shorter length, and delicate layers of soft tulle, allowed the ballerinas a complete freedom of movement and expression. This new era embraced the grace and lightness of female form. It was, simply, a breath of fresh air in the world of ballet!
Let’s have a little peak back in time, and examine exactly how this romantic beauty came to be.
The Genesis of the Romantic Tutu
It is said that the seeds of the Romantic tutu's creation were sown back in the 1830s, as the dance world embraced Romanticism. Romantic ballet favoured themes based on myths, legends, and tales of fairies. 🧚♀️
Here in Derbyshire, we're pretty used to tales of fairies – I have fond memories of dancing under the brightly lit tree in our family garden. But what we are talking about in Paris was not some delicate and wistful dance around a rose bush… no, dear readers, we are talking about something so much more impactful and emotive.
The Ballet of the Era: Now, you've got to picture it: ballerinas dressed in this brand new Romantic tutu, with its sweeping, billowing skirts, gracefully moving through a fantastical narrative… all choreographed with a fluidity that mimics nature. Think "La Sylphide" (1832), "Giselle" (1841), and "La Fille du Régiment" (1848)! These were just some of the ballets that absolutely captivated audiences, and solidified the Romantic tutu as a powerful visual tool.
But did you know, it wasn't all about elegance? This newly liberated tutu was also about the showcasing of talent. It allowed ballerinas like Marie Taglioni - often heralded as "the queen of the romantic era” – to truly highlight their technique. They could literally dance on air, captivating audiences with their stunning leaps and dazzling turns. They were literally making ballet history with their grace!
The ballet of that era wasn't all lightheartedness and fairies. Many ballets were more melancholic in nature, touching upon topics like unrequited love and sacrifice. This romantic sentiment perfectly harmonised with the gentle and romantic designs of the tutu. A symphony of elegance and beauty combined.
The Romantics - The Fashion Revolution of 1858. So, 1858 – a year of significant beauty and artistic change, which would become known as a true fashion revolution in the world of ballet. The Romantic tutu – oh, the delicate layering and flow – made such a wonderful statement that the dance world was irrevocably altered.
Imagine being present during one of these premieres with that gorgeous tulle billowing, as the ballerinas gracefully floated across the stage, captivating the audience! Every twirl, every step, and every movement had the power to move audiences deeply. These early ballets – and their tutu designs – were groundbreaking in many ways, and they had an influence which extended far beyond the theatre stage. The "Romantic" tutu quickly gained popularity as a symbol of femininity and artistry, becoming an iconic symbol for dance and the ever-lasting glamour associated with it.
Onward! To More Tutus!
Of course, the Romantic era eventually came to an end. But what they left behind were a legacy of ballet artistry and, yes, some truly beautiful designs in tutus!
Remember, we are all just like these dancers with their beautiful and inspiring outfits – we all deserve to have some whimsy and beauty in our lives! Just try and put on a tutu for a little while and watch how it transforms you. You are capable of feeling beautiful and confident and, just like these dancers, ready to conquer any challenge! And just think - a pink tutu is the perfect choice, right?!
Let’s get shopping! This #TutuTuesday, let us celebrate the romantic tutus that revolutionised ballet – and don’t forget to share your favourite tutu moment or stories in the comments below!
Until next #TutuTuesday!
Emma xo
