Hello my dearest Tutu-Lovers! It's Emma here, your resident Pink Tutu enthusiast, ready to whisk you back in time to another #TutuTuesday adventure! This week, we're heading way, way back to May 17th, 1870, for a journey through the glorious, shimmering history of our beloved tutu.
Oh my, imagine this – no sleek dance studios, no pointe shoes, no tights (I mean, thank goodness for tights!), just the sheer thrill of being on stage!
I boarded the train from Derbyshire with my heart thumping like a conductor's baton! Oh the joy of traveling by train! The gentle rocking, the clinking of the wheels, and the thrill of reaching a new destination... a world of ballet history awaits.
We’re in Paris, my darlings, a haven for dance and fashion! Today, I'm practically bursting with excitement. 1870! Imagine all the iconic Parisian boutiques teeming with exquisite gowns, bonnets, and – hold your breath – some very, very early versions of the tutus we adore!
Now, if you haven't heard of Marie Taglioni already, my darlings, where have you been?! This absolute ballerina icon practically invented the romantic tutu in the 1830s. She graced stages all across Europe, dazzling audiences with her flowing white gowns – almost like a swan taking flight! Imagine that – graceful, beautiful, with not a stitch in sight!
By the time 1870 rolls around, the tutu is taking on its own shape. We see tutu-esque costumes, often fashioned in gauze or muslin. Think fluttering skirts with hints of ruffles and bows – and, you guessed it – those divine, billowing trains! Oh, I dream of a day when we can all waltz in such whimsical attire!
And for those who love their dancing with a little bit of drama, there’s *Camille Saint-Saëns’ "The Carnival of the Animals". This whimsical piece, inspired by the beauty of the animal world, has just had its premiere at a *salon, that's a musical gathering of elite performers and enthusiasts, in Paris! Imagine, dear Tutu-Lovers! Animals come to life in a flurry of dance and music. A tutu wouldn't be far off for this glorious performance!
Think about this – no lycra, no stretchy fabrics. Just lightweight, billowing, enchanting, feminine – that is the tutu's origin! Now, as you twirl in your modern tutu, picture those elegant ladies of old gliding on stage, inspiring future generations of tutu-loving dancers.
Now, I shall indulge myself with a hot chocolate with some macarons while strolling around the enchanting streets of Paris!
And, my dear tutu lovers, I need your help! What else would you like to know about ballet history? Maybe about the costumes? The music? Maybe even about the choreography?!
Remember, stay tuned for more #TutuTuesday blogs on my www.pink-tutu.com site each Tuesday. I am simply thrilled to be sharing this exciting journey through time with you, my tutu-loving friends.
Until next week, remember, wear a tutu. Always. Happy twirling!
Emma, your #PinkTutu Fashionista!
This is blog post #2003 on Pink Tutu History. I post a new #TutuTuesday blog each week on www.pink-tutu.com
I'd love to hear from you! I also love to travel. Leave me a comment on my www.pink-tutu.com blog and let me know what your favourite part of this post was, your favourite ballet or what colour you think I should wear my tutu in next week's blog post! If you like, I can even reply to you on this post!
Don't forget to subscribe to Pink-Tutu.com so you don't miss a thing. Love and hugs to all of you. Be kind to everyone, stay true to yourself. And be your best selves!
XOXO, Emma
