Welcome back, my darling dears! Emma here, your tutu-loving, time-traveling blogger, bringing you another exciting installment of #TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History! This week, we're stepping back to a very special date - the 26th of August, 1862!
This post marks my 1600th blog entry for www.pink-tutu.com - I can't believe it! I've been travelling through time, exploring the evolution of the tutu for so long, and I'm so thrilled to have you all join me on this journey.
Today, I've popped up in the heart of Paris - the very heart of the ballet world. Imagine, darling dears, the grand theaters, the elegant performances, and the shimmering ball gowns that float through the Parisian streets.
It’s all about romanticism here, from the music to the movement! The famous choreographer Marius Petipa - oh, he is such a darling - is showcasing beautiful, intricate ballets, inspired by fairytales and legends. The music is as sweeping as a ballroom waltz, and the stories are as passionate as a summer’s day.
But where do our beloved tutus fit into this dreamy scene? Let me tell you! The romantic era was all about fluttering, light-as-air creations. We're seeing less of the fluffy, short tutus of the past and more of the longer, flowing styles, adorned with gorgeous embroidery and beautiful ribbons. These tutus have become practically a symbol of romance itself, whispering tales of enchantment with every twirl!
Think of Giselle, the heart-wrenching ballet about a peasant girl who, in her grief, becomes a Wilis - a vengeful spirit dancing with the moon. The heroine, Giselle, wears a diaphanous white tutu that captures her delicate beauty and tragic destiny. It’s an exquisite example of how the tutu has begun to speak to the very emotions of a ballet, don’t you agree?
But the magic of ballet doesn’t stop on stage, darling dears. This is also a time of unparalleled fashion! Parisian streets are brimming with beautiful ball gowns and silks. There are delicate flowers pinned to elaborate hairstyles and elegant parasols to shade them from the sun. And even men are decked out in their finest attire – I must say, there's no lack of glamour!
I’m currently wearing a delightful blush pink tulle tutu, layered with silk ribbons, adorned with pearls and beads, with my hair arranged in a cascade of curls topped off with a stunning jeweled tiara. It’s rather magnifique, don't you think?
I'm lucky to have a little apartment near the Opéra Garnier, so grand and magnificent. It's been fascinating watching the throngs of Parisian ladies come in their finest outfits to watch ballet performances. I always love going myself! Last night, I was enthralled by a new version of La Sylphide. A young, exceptionally talented dancer had been promoted, and she captivated everyone with her graceful movements!
However, don't let these glorious stories of ballets and gowns lull you into thinking that Parisian life is all frivolity and grace, darling dears. As I travel, I am always observing the political and social scene. There is a distinct buzz in the air – an atmosphere of exciting new developments in the world of science and exploration. It is a period where boundaries are being pushed, and the old ways are being challenged. This era, filled with grand dances, flowing fabrics, and exciting change, is one for the history books!
Now, a little something for you: On the 26th of August 1862, Queen Victoria of England was celebrating the birthday of her eldest son, Albert Edward - also known as Bertie - who would go on to become King Edward VII! Just a thought for our history-minded tutu-wearers!
Until next time, darlings! I’ll be keeping my pink tutu shining and ready to journey through another adventure. And don’t forget – every day is a good day for a little twirl in a pink tutu!
Remember to check out www.pink-tutu.com for my daily updates, special guest features, and, of course, our #TutuTuesday posts! I'm hoping to create a wonderful world of fashion, dance, and fabulous tutus!
XOXO, Emma
