#1442 - 16th August, 1859
Hello my darling tutu enthusiasts! It's Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink-tutu-wearing time traveller! 🎀 As you all know, #TutuTuesday is the day I whisk you back in time to discover the delightful history of ballet tutus.
Today, my dears, we're taking the train to Paris, the undisputed heart of the tutu world! The city is brimming with vibrant fashion, incredible shows, and some of the most captivating dance performances in Europe. It’s a fashionista’s dream! ✨
I've already been busy, touring the charming boutiques on the Rue de Rivoli, sourcing the most delightful fabrics. Silk, satin, tulle – oh my! I’m dreaming of a whimsical tulle creation that’s a delicate shade of blush, perfect for waltzing through the Champs-Élysées! 😍
Speaking of waltzing, today marks a very special event – The Emperor of Austria, Franz Joseph I, and his beautiful Empress, Elisabeth of Bavaria, are arriving in Paris! This is sure to be a spectacle – imagine the crowds! I do hope they take in a performance at the Opéra Garnier, it truly is a masterpiece! 🎭
1859 was a fascinating time for ballet tutus. Remember, we’re just a little while after the Romantic era when dancers started favouring the airy, floaty tutus we adore today. Gone are the cumbersome layers of fabric and tight bodices – now dancers have the freedom to move, to fly, to be absolutely captivating! 💃
And oh my, the beauty! Think graceful shapes, cascading ruffles, a light and airy silhouette – just like the first snowflake of winter, only with much more glamour! 🤩
Speaking of glamour, we’ve got a real treat in store this evening - the Ballet of the Paris Opera is presenting the new ballet 'Coppélia', choreographed by Arthur Saint-Léon. It's a classic fairytale about a toy doll who comes to life. It’s rumoured to have the most delightful costumes – just picture a doll with the most adorable tutu, I'm practically vibrating with excitement! 😍
Let’s have a quick peek at what this magical time in tutu history offers:
- A New Era for the Tutu: The Romantic tutu, as I’ve mentioned, has fully taken hold. You can see this beautiful silhouette with the shortened skirt and flowing fabric in ballets all across Europe!
- A Flair for Colour: Ballet companies are really experimenting with their colours. The graceful tutus are no longer confined to white, they're swishing and swirling in blues, pinks, and greens! Think ballerinas like butterflies – gorgeous, colourful, and ever so light! 🌸
- The Magic of Ballet Shoes: I'm smitten with the ballet slippers of this era – the pointe shoes that are becoming increasingly popular. Imagine, being able to rise onto the very tips of your toes and become like a dancing angel! ✨
I’ve got to run, dears! There's a vintage lace boutique calling my name, and then it’s time to secure the best seats for this evening's performance! Remember to join me next Tuesday, as I journey further into the wondrous history of ballet tutus.
Until then, keep twirling and remember – it’s always a good time for a pink tutu! 💖
