Bonjour mes amies! Emma here, your trusty Tutu Tuesday guide to the fabulous world of the tutu. This week we're whisked back in time to the grand and elegant world of 1868!
It's a crisp February morning in Paris, and the city is abuzz with excitement! It’s the day of the first performance of ‘La Source’ at the Opéra Garnier – and trust me, it’s not just any ordinary ballet. It marks a significant shift in ballet history – and the beginning of something quite revolutionary: The Romantic tutu!
I, for one, am utterly delighted! My very pink and frilly tutu is itching to waltz with this new style, which is all about grace and elegance, just like my very being. This new romantic style is just dreamy. Gone are the days of the voluminous and restricting Romantic tutus from the past, in comes a lightweight and breezy, airy design that truly allows the dancers to float and soar across the stage! I am simply swooning with delight, as the sheer beauty of it all washes over me like a whisper of silk.
What makes the Romantic tutu so utterly special is its length - it reaches down to the knees, offering a glimpse of the dancer's beautiful legs whilst maintaining a sweet, playful sense of innocence. And what's more, it's all about movement! The Romantic tutu was created to enhance every delicate twirl and captivating leap, emphasizing the feminine allure and graceful spirit of the ballerina.
Of course, the Romantic tutu wasn’t the only thing making waves on February 4th, 1868. Just across the Channel, in my very own Derbyshire, the world of fashion was abuzz with news of the newest trends - think lavish Victorian styles, with all their frills and flourishes! I do love a good bit of frill, don’t you? Lace, silk, and velvet were the stars of the season, offering a luxurious touch to every outfit. Think exquisite bodices and billowing skirts, all designed to accentuate the feminine form – it’s a dream come true!
Now, I wouldn’t be a true Tutu Tuesday blogger without mentioning what’s in store for our 1868 wardrobes: think full skirts with layers upon layers of flounces – like little explosions of tulle around the ankles! The more, the merrier I say. You’re looking at an era where every lady, regardless of her status, embraced fashion with gusto! And if a little bit of flair could be achieved with a splash of pink, all the better. It seems pink was everywhere and it seems this little pink fan was around before I was! Just imagine me strutting about Derbyshire in my glorious pink ensemble, drawing all the admiring glances!
Of course, what’s a trip back to 1868 without a bit of travel, don't you agree? Thankfully, the world has progressed a bit since 1868. The railway had reached even my beloved Derbyshire and trains are just delightful – sleek carriages gliding through the countryside, and for a true fashionista, an endless opportunity to dress up for the occasion. I must confess, nothing says style quite like arriving in a grand ballroom or theatre, a chic travel hat perched perfectly atop my head, my latest pink tutu bag nestled under my arm.
I'm currently en route to Paris, for I've got to experience this historical moment first hand! I'll be at the Opéra Garnier to watch the debut of ‘La Source,’ and I shall write to you all about it soon! My heart beats with anticipation! Think beautiful melodies, elaborate choreography, and a new ballet tutu that makes my toes wiggle with excitement – I can barely contain my pink-hued dreams.
In the meantime, I highly recommend indulging in a little historical research. Let’s celebrate all the wonderful things about ballet history, as well as those exquisite fashion moments!
Do share your favourite things about ballet history with me, or your dream ballet-inspired outfit for that matter. Maybe tell me which ballet you'd be performing, if you had the chance! I'd love to hear all about it!
See you next week for another delightful dose of tutu history, dear friends!
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