Bonjour, my lovely Tutu Twirlers! It’s your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back with another delve into the enchanting history of our beloved ballet tutu!
Oh, I am so excited to share today’s adventure with you. Today’s #TutuTuesday takes us right back to the 16th of April, 1861. Just picture it: the cobblestone streets of Paris, the scent of fresh bread wafting from bakeries, and the clinking of horse-drawn carriages. What a magical time!
As a ballet fanatic, my heart is truly racing, because, my dears, April 16th, 1861 was a momentous occasion in the world of ballet: The premiere of Giselle at the Theatre du Châtelet, Paris. This ballet, choreographed by the legendary Jules Perrot, with music by Adolphe Adam, is one of the most beautiful, poignant, and deeply loved ballets ever created.
A Bit of Backstory:
The original tutus, remember, were these gorgeous, frilled affairs, called "romantica" or "tulle skirts" that looked like giant bells! The ballerinas would wear them to create that magical, fluttering movement as they twirled across the stage. Now, in 1861, those full, wide, romantica skirts, were beginning to be replaced by what we know as the "classic" or "whistling" tutu – a shorter, more structured, single-layered, tutu. This gave the ballerinas even more freedom to perform breathtaking, high leaps and those gravity-defying pirouettes we adore!
Imagine the joy on those Paris audiences’ faces as Giselle gracefully floated across the stage in her gorgeous tutu. I bet there were gasps of awe and shouts of "Bravo" as she danced with exquisite lightness. And wouldn't you have loved to be part of that excitement? I'd give anything to experience the magic of ballet as they did in that time, surrounded by such wonder and delight.
Speaking of Joy…
I must tell you all about my adventures before reaching 1861 Paris. It’s been a thrilling, whistle-stop tour!
I departed from the beautiful Derbyshire countryside last week, aboard a magnificent train - all plush red velvet and shiny brass - to visit a fabulous fashion exhibition in London. Oh my, the outfits! I saw a wonderful array of gowns and petticoats and a beautiful display of feathered bonnets. And they even had some real-life versions of the original Romantic period ballet skirts – I must admit, they made me feel positively dizzy!
After London, it was on to Paris, and I simply had to pop into a few of the fantastic millinery shops and boutiques – even a ballerina must stay on top of the latest trends, you know! Paris is always a wonderland for fashionistas like me.
I can’t help but be thankful that even today, those iconic Parisian designs inspire fashion all around the world. In my latest London jaunt, I even saw a beautiful wedding dress made using an updated version of those very romantic ballet skirts - oh, wouldn't it be amazing to dance down the aisle in something that airy and graceful? Imagine the pictures!
A Peek into the Future:
Back in the 1800s, fashion was about extravagance and elegance. That still resonates today – but it's so lovely to see how our fashion evolution continues!
We still use elements of those iconic tutu designs today - but our contemporary tutu designs push boundaries - think modern movements, more abstract designs, a dash of daring, and yes - more pink of course. Just like fashion, ballet tutus are always evolving to reflect the spirit of the times. It's a wondrously exciting journey!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got an appointment with a gorgeous pink tutu-inspired dress! I found the most darling Parisian-inspired gown, just perfect for our #TutuTuesday. And who knows, perhaps in my next post I’ll show you a little Parisian-inspired ballerina-inspired look!
Until then, my darlings, do keep those tutus twirling,
Au revoir, Emma x
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