Hello darlings, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet, dedicated to all things tutu! It's Emma here, your trusty pink tutu-clad guide to the wonderful world of ballet history. Today, we're whisking ourselves back to October 18th, 1870, and my, oh my, what a fascinating time it was for our beloved tutus! Let's get on with the journey!
Firstly, can you imagine arriving at your destination on the 18th of October 1870? It was a grand time for trains! We whizzed through the countryside, taking in the changing hues of autumn and getting those delicious, steamy engine fumes all over our best bonnets (though they do take some getting used to!). I can almost feel the rumble of the engine beneath my feet now and the delicious smell of coal smoke in the air. I imagine the ladies back then would have been enthralled by the adventure and speed, making for an ideal prelude to a show!
Speaking of shows, this day in ballet history was certainly full of them! If you found yourself in St. Petersburg, Russia, the Imperial Ballet were performing Giselle at the Mariinsky Theatre. Talk about an amazing production!
The Mariinsky is still the home of the world-renowned ballet today, and they are still giving top performances. And those stunning ballerinas, dressed in the very best tutus, flitting across the stage - it's something every tutu aficionado has to see! This very ballet, Giselle, with its breathtakingly light and graceful costumes is considered by many to be a landmark moment for the tutu! It really put those beautiful creations centre stage! I must admit, darling, a tutu with tiers of tulle, billowing out like clouds, makes me want to swirl and pirouette endlessly!
Of course, the year 1870 wasn’t just about the stage! Shopping, shopping, shopping! Let's chat a bit about those charming shops in London back in 1870! You know I can't resist a bit of fashion history, darling.
The "tutu" itself wasn't an official name yet! This was back in the day where they were still experimenting with how the design evolved and were referred to simply as "skirts", or sometimes even "dresses", even if they did leave quite a bit to the imagination! Imagine a ballerina, shimmering in tulle, the delicate layers floating and swirling with each movement! You could easily see her as a beautiful fairy or a graceful, playful creature of the air.
Oh darling! Now I'm just yearning to hop on that train and see the whole scene for myself. Fancy taking a trip with me on my next Tutu Tuesday excursion, loves? Don't forget to subscribe to www.pink-tutu.com so you don't miss out! We'll go on another amazing trip soon, my dears. I promise! Until next time, be sure to stay twirling and don’t be afraid to embrace the fabulous world of the tutu!
See you soon! 💖 Emma
Tutu Notes! 🌸🩰This was an era where tutus became a defining part of the ballet scene. Designers began exploring different shapes and sizes, even utilising fabrics like silk and satin! There was a focus on the dancer, and the costumes really complimented and showcased their movements and technique, rather than being just pretty frocks!
Some tutus started becoming more elaborate - I’m thinking of the tutus made of feather-light material and with ribbons, even sparkles! This created an even more ethereal and captivating feel.
Of course, in our time, there is a massive variety of tutus - from the classic to the experimental. From my point of view, a classic, soft pink tulle, is always the most perfect shade for a tutu! 💖 It's the colour that captures the innocence, playfulness and elegance of ballet. And don't forget the bows! A cute pink satin bow on the waist? chefs kiss * You just can't go wrong, darling!
And while I may travel back through time, I love nothing more than watching a contemporary dance piece - a more free and dynamic approach to dancing! There is beauty in the unexpected. Even when not on the stage, I love a twirl and a flourish! Let's keep the pink tutu love going strong and keep dancing!
