#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1863-11-24

Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, dear readers! This week's #TutuTuesday takes us right back to November 24th, 1863. Can you believe we're still on the road to tutus?! Yes, my darlings, the journey to those iconic fluffy creations is longer than you might think.

Today, however, we find ourselves in a slightly more theatrical realm, so to speak. As a fellow ballet enthusiast, I bet you're intrigued to know about the French* Ballet in those times, right? Well, I just *love learning about the history of dance, so, let's grab our tea and biscuits (one can't live on air alone, you know!), and I'll share what I've discovered about ballet history during this specific week of 1863!

We’re in Paris! Oh, Paris, how I adore you! I could easily live here with its chic boulevards and delicious patisseries! But I’m here on a mission, darling. That's because Paris, this week, was experiencing the hottest show on stage - Giselle! And you know how much I adore this ballet, don’t you? I think I’ve even told you all I dream of being the ethereal Giselle herself! This story of the heartbroken, doomed maiden (cue the drama!) became such a favourite, and it still captures hearts today.

On November 24th, 1863, a spectacular rendition of “Giselle” was put on at the Opera House, featuring Madame Emma Livry. Did you know, darling, she became famous for her portrayal of Giselle?! I just knew you'd want to hear all about her - even today, her portrayal of Giselle captivates and her delicate pointework inspires.

This "Giselle" is really significant for tutu evolution. The 1860s brought on a change in the costumes. Gone are the old romantique tunics and heavier skirts - in their place? A tighter silhouette, more elegant and fluid. Think graceful lines and soft movement, rather than stiff forms and swishy dresses. And who doesn’t love the grace of a soft tutu?

Remember, dear friends, back then, it was all about achieving that perfect feminine form on stage. You know, flowing fabric that catches the light and highlights every beautiful move! And how absolutely darling are the pink, red, or pale blue tutus on these ballerinas? I simply cannot resist a well-crafted tutu. It makes every girl feel just that little bit more special.

Now, before I get too carried away and tell you about the gorgeous Parisian stores (Oh, the fabrics! The haute couture!), I must say a little about the opera house where “Giselle” was staged. In 1863, Paris had two. The “Opéra Garnier” and the “Opéra Comique”. Fancy, huh?! Both theatres have grand décor, ornate with glittering chandeliers and stunning architecture. These locations really set the scene for ballet and created an exquisite setting for their audiences, don’t you agree?

And I, for one, just cannot resist a trip down to the boutiques afterwards, soaking up all the new trends and getting some shopping done. You can't fault a fashionista for wanting to keep up with the latest ballet fashions! The shops were bursting with silk and satin, ready for the season's latest fashion shows, all of which have influenced and inspire the costumes on stage. I’d bet it wasn't all pink in the shop windows, but as you all know, my love for pink knows no bounds. It simply suits the stage - the softness of the fabric is enchanting, it’s the ultimate delicate shade. Oh, my darlings, I just wish I could have lived through this fashion era!

So, dear readers, our #TutuTuesday continues on our journey through ballet history. I just know you are so eager to wear your pink tutu with me! And I do hope this glimpse back to the Paris Opera house has ignited some inspiration within you. It's not all about twirling in a tutu, dear readers, it's about being able to express ourselves, about allowing ourselves to dream big! I always dream of the day we’ll have tutus at every ball. Just think! Everyone twirling with us, oh, the pure joy it would bring!

I’ll see you next Tuesday with even more wonderful ballet and tutu insights. Remember, dear readers, wear your tutu with pride, and join me as we make the world a more glamorous place, one pink tutu at a time! 🩰 💕

Until then, darling readers, stay stylish!
Emma

www.pink-tutu.com