Bonjour mes amies! It's your favourite Derbyshire damsel in pink, Emma, back with another exciting episode of your weekly Tutu Tuesday! Today we're travelling back to a time when trains were all the rage and ladies’ bonnets were simply divine - 1870s Paris, darling! It’s a period full of grand balls, sumptuous fashion, and of course, the beginnings of the tutu as we know it today.
Now, let me tell you, tutus in the 1870s were all about movement. Picture this, a billowing cloud of tulle, swirling and twirling as a ballerina glides across the stage. Yes, ladies, the romantic ballet era was well and truly in full swing!
Before we delve into the sartorial details, let's rewind the clock a little, shall we? Prior to the 1870s, dancers typically wore calf-length skirts with a simple bodice – definitely not the floaty delight we've come to expect from a tutu! Think more practical than ethereal, darlings.
But, things started to change dramatically with the arrival of ballerinas like Marie Taglioni. This beautiful, elegant dancer – known for her light and ethereal movements – paved the way for shorter, more flowing skirts. And so began the transformation into what we know as the "romantic tutu."
Speaking of ballerinas, remember that incredible show I saw last week at the Paris Opéra, the exquisite performance of La Bayadère? Oh my, it was a veritable spectacle of gorgeous, full-skirted tutus! Each shimmering, fluffy, layers of tulle was a piece of artistry on its own, wouldn’t you agree?
Now, let's discuss the evolution of the tutu in the 1870s – it was a time of experimentation! We saw the rise of the "Romantic" tutu – a billowing, calf-length, single-layered tutu with delicate floral decorations and lace accents, which was all the rage for dramatic entrances and graceful movements. But this wasn't the only tutu design being explored. We also saw shorter tutus, the "Classical" tutus, emerging as dancers started pushing for greater freedom of movement, allowing them to express themselves with even greater fluidity and flexibility.
Now, a quick bit of history for all you avid ballet buffs – 1870 saw the birth of one of the most influential ballerinas in history: Anna Pavlova. Can you imagine how fabulous it was to see her grace the stage in her beautiful, dramatic costumes, often designed by renowned costume designer, Mme. Louise Bécheron. It's safe to say that both Pavlova's dazzling talent and Bécheron's artistry made a significant mark on the world of ballet, making ballet the ultimate spectacle it has become today.
I can practically feel the air thrumming with anticipation when I imagine them at work – the rustling of tulle, the shimmering sequins, the excited hum of inspiration as they create something truly magnificent! Now wouldn’t that be an incredible thing to witness? Oh, how I yearn to travel back and witness this spectacle myself. Imagine the joy, the inspiration, the absolute fashion frenzy of those legendary evenings!
Don’t think I’ve forgotten, ladies! You’ve come here to get the full, low down on the tutus in the 1870s! Here are some juicy details about what was happening in fashion around that time:
- Fabric: The tutu fabric of choice in the 1870s was tulle. It was considered airy, delicate and graceful, a true symbol of the period.
- Silhouettes: Remember those impossibly narrow waists cinched tight by corsets? And the big, voluminous skirts – both daytime and evening wear?
- Colours: Ladies were spoilt for choice! They adored all shades of the spectrum from muted greens and blues to brighter pinks and yellows. The colour pink? Well, it's the queen of femininity and always will be. I say let's embrace it, darling!
- Details: Now, remember ladies, we love the details. Lace trimmings, ribbons, embellishments and intricate embroidery were the go-to for making dresses and tutus truly spectacular.
- Flowers: Nothing spells romantic like delicate flower motifs and, darlings, we absolutely loved them!
And then, just to spice things up, they added in sequins and crystals – like little stars sprinkling the evening skies! This glamorous touch helped to add an ethereal and dazzling dimension to any look.
Oh, darling, don’t you think it’s time for a tutu-inspired look yourself? This Tuesday why not channel that 1870s charm and pair a blush-pink tutu with a floaty white blouse. Finish it off with a stylish wide-brimmed hat, just a touch of glitter for a bit of Parisian panache, and your look will be the epitome of elegant femininity, perfectly capturing the essence of the era.
Speaking of Parisian panache, wouldn’t it be delightful to be able to pop over to the French capital and soak up all that enchanting Parisian atmosphere? I certainly do. Imagine a world full of grand cafes, enchanting music, breathtaking architecture, and of course, delectable pastries! And maybe a stop at a fantastic boutique for some exquisite Parisian fabrics for my next custom tutu – perhaps a shade of champagne? Oh, mon Dieu! The mere thought is so romantic.
You can follow me, @PinkTutuEmma, on Instagram for the latest fashion updates, tutu tutorials and my current ballet obsessions!
Now, don’t you just love the tutus from this period? How they gracefully moved with the dancer, showing off every single elegant move. Truly breathtaking. What era would you like to learn more about next week, darlings? Do let me know. Until then, wear your pink tutus with pride and enjoy every single magical movement. Happy Tutu Tuesday, my friends!
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