Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink-clad time traveller, Emma, back with another installment of #TutuTuesday! Today, we're stepping into the enchanting world of tutus – yes, you guessed it, we're going way back in time! This week, we're journeying to February 9th, 1864. Buckle your seatbelts, fashionistas, it’s going to be a truly spectacular ride!
Now, when you picture a tutu in 1864, the image might not immediately bring to mind the billowing layers of tulle we're all so fond of. Back then, the concept of a tutu was still quite young. It was during the 1840s and 50s that the classic tutu silhouette as we know it was taking shape. The long, romantic "Romantic" tutu was the star of the show, and that’s what we'll be focusing on today!
This lovely creation, a dramatic departure from the rigid corsets and voluminous skirts of the era, is named after the French word "tulle". It’s like whispering "ethereal" or "fairy-tale" all in one word. Isn’t that just wonderful?
Oh my goodness! I must confess, this week's travels brought me to a magical Parisian ballet. The Opéra Garnier was bursting with opulence! The grandeur of the venue was positively astounding, from its stunning architecture to its elegant chandelier, a perfect setting for this ethereal style. Speaking of grand, we’re going to discuss the grand jeté, darlings! This particular move really stole the show during that romantic era and is what made those tutus shine so gloriously! Imagine yourself skipping gracefully through the air, all dressed in a billowing cascade of tulle – utterly breathtaking, wouldn’t you agree? I’m just picturing it now, a whimsical symphony of movement!
February 9th, 1864, saw the première of a delightful piece entitled, "The Nutcracker." I wasn’t able to attend, as I had booked myself into a fabulous show in another city - oh, you know how it is when you’re a time travelling ballerina! But alas! I am told this beautiful, mystical work is quite the treat – the music, the storyline… a delightful ballet for the entire family! Although this particular ballet doesn't specifically focus on the romantic style, it's during this period that the tutus took centre stage.
Speaking of taking centre stage, the real stars of the show during this era were the brilliant ballerinas themselves! The graceful ballerinas of the late 19th century captivated audiences with their incredible flexibility and effortless movements. The Romantic tutus allowed their limbs to glide gracefully, their movements almost like fleeting wisps of air. I simply must try this era’s ballet one day! I'll keep you updated.
But don't think for a moment that ballet fashion was confined to just the "Romantic" look. We mustn't forget the enchanting "La Sylphide," a true embodiment of ballet fashion evolution. Its creators embraced delicate embellishments, elegant headdresses and a playful nod towards fairy-like themes.
Oh, it just sparks my creativity! A beautiful French ballet from February 9th, 1864, inspired by fairies… the romanticism, the artistry of it all just melts my heart. I just wish I could've worn one of those amazing Romantic tutus to that performance! Just picture me, all pink, tulle and twirling in the moonlight! It’s all I can think about now…
While we’re on the subject of "La Sylphide," it's worth mentioning Marie Taglioni, one of the leading dancers of the Romantic period! It was her signature "white tutu" which cemented this timeless piece as a masterpiece and launched the romantic tutus into legendary status. Now that’s making a statement, darling!
While this period may have marked the beginning of the iconic ballet tutu we know today, I am always looking forward to what the future holds! For every dancer has their own style, every time period holds a unique and spectacular display of artistry, every individual story is beautifully woven with the past and forever shaped by its own destiny. Perhaps one day we'll be wearing those elegant Romantic tutus for our modern performances!
Until next week, stay elegant and stay tuned! Don't forget to head on over to www.pink-tutu.com to share your thoughts, discuss all things tutus and be a part of this wonderfully vibrant community. I'm excited to see what tutu magic you share with me. Don't forget to tag #TutuTuesday on all your social media so I can see your fabulous outfits.
Remember, you can wear a pink tutu anywhere!
Much love,
Emma xx
