Greetings, darlings! Emma here, your ever-so-pink tutu-loving blogger, bringing you another scintillating slice of #TutuTuesday history!
This week, my time machine whisked me back to the bustling heart of Paris in 1862, and let me tell you, the fashion was utterly fabulous! Picture swirling silk gowns, bewitching bonnets, and of course, a tantalising glimpse of the tutus to come.
Now, I know what you're thinking: tutus in 1862? Was ballet even a thing? Well, my dears, let me enlighten you. It most certainly was! But back then, the "tutu" wasn't quite the fluffy, frilly masterpiece we know and love today. Think more along the lines of elegant, flowing skirts, a delicate whisper of tulle and lace, clinging to the legs with an ethereal charm.
The "tutu" in 1862 was the "Romantic tutu", an evolution from the long, billowing gowns worn by ballerinas before. It represented a move towards greater fluidity and freedom of movement, a crucial element for the evolving ballet repertoire of the time. And speaking of repertoire...
June 10th, 1862, was a momentous occasion for the Paris Opera Ballet. The much-anticipated premiere of "La Fille du Régiment" was set to take place! This iconic opera buffa, with its charming plot and heart-stopping music, brought forth the first official tutu to the stage. It wasn't a fluffy, modern day "tutu" but still an advancement! Think "La Sylphide" but with more movement! It was designed by the esteemed tailor Paul Lormier, who's creative touch, I must say, deserves all the kudos.
And what about the "Romantic Tutu", I hear you whisper? Well, darling, this enchanting design took the stage by storm just a couple of years later in 1864. And let me tell you, it's a truly magnificent thing. The graceful sweep, the swirling layers of tulle...it’s a vision of beauty, making the dancers look like celestial creatures. I imagine they just effortlessly floated through the air.
But darling, we can't forget the real star of this historical juncture – Carlotta Grisi, the dazzling ballerina whose grace and talent embodied the romantic style perfectly! She took the Parisian stage by storm, a true visionary in both her performance and in her impeccable sense of fashion. If I were a ballerina back then, Carlotta would be my fashion icon!
So, my lovelies, as I sit here in my blush-pink tutu, writing from my Derbyshire cottage (yes, I’ve upgraded my travel budget, much thanks to the recent success of my London debut, which made an absolute fortune!) and pondering on the incredible journey of the tutu, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for those pioneers who brought us this iconic symbol of dance and elegance.
We owe a huge debt of thanks to Carlotta Grisi and the countless ballet dancers who came before us, paving the way for our modern, twirling delight.
Next week, I'm going to explore the evolution of the tutu, taking you from the first daring glimpses of fabric to the revolutionary rise of the modern tutu! Oh, my darlings, there are just SO many stories to share...I've already got my research going and have just bought the most perfect pair of pink velvet boots to add a little chicness to my costume for next week's blog!
Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com, and be sure to follow my social media! Until next #TutuTuesday, my loves!
#pinktutu #ballet #fashion #history #paris #timetravel #blog #emma #balletlife #tututuesday
