Hello my darling Tutu Twirlers! Emma here, your pink-loving, tutu-adoring, time-travelling fashionista! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com, where every Tuesday is a celebration of the most glorious garment ever invented - the tutu!
It’s hard to believe it’s already August! Where does the time go, especially when you're bouncing between centuries, I tell you! This week I'm back from a thrilling trip to the year 1871. This trip was a particular treat, you see, as I landed right in the heart of Parisian ballet – my absolute favourite! I’m obsessed with tutus, and knowing that Paris was THE place to be for ballerinas and fashion in the late 19th century just had to be experienced.
Of course, the first thing I did was grab my vintage suitcase full of pink accessories (it’s a habit I’ve gotten into) and dash straight to the Theatre de l'Opera. Let me tell you, there's nothing like the magic of a grand opera house. I simply adore those shimmering chandeliers, plush velvet seats, and the energy in the air – a tangible thrill of anticipation before the curtains rise.
Speaking of the opera, August 8th, 1871 saw a spectacular performance of “La Source”, a ballet-opera by Léo Delibes. The performance was a triumph, with the celebrated prima ballerina, Caroline Legrand, a woman who truly embodied the spirit of ballet grace. Now, Caroline was a bit of a rebel - she broke away from the standard tutu style we associate with the classical ballets of the time. Imagine a romantic tutu with lots of layered tulle that flowed like liquid silk. Imagine that, but longer, and cascading in a way that didn’t just follow the classical form, it added a flourish of artistry to her movement! It’s truly inspiring how artists push the boundaries and define new possibilities.
And speaking of boundaries – tutus back then were already pretty impressive in terms of volume. Think billowing layers, a flurry of white, a kind of heavenly meringue! But, as with anything related to fashion, change is inevitable. We are in the dawn of a new era in the tutu’s evolution. I sense a change in the air - something romantic and a touch more modern. Can you imagine that?! More delicate materials, softer hues, and perhaps even an introduction of different colours...it’s simply delicious to think about!
It’s the little details that I love to see. Did you know that, for a long time, ballerinas relied on thick corsets to maintain the perfect posture, and that meant wearing long tights that were simply not flattering? This was such a hardship on these incredible women – who even thought of tights? Thankfully, during the late 1800s, tights were replaced by the “tights leotard,” offering a revolutionary sense of freedom and comfort. You simply must picture that - the freedom of movement!
Oh, and you wouldn’t believe what I discovered in Paris! Imagine the thrill of stepping into the workshop of one of the most famous costume makers! I felt like a child let loose in a wonderland of ribbons, feathers, beads, and most importantly, rolls and rolls of exquisite tulle. It’s enough to give any ballet aficionado palpitations, and I must admit, I bought a spool of the most gorgeous silver-toned silk. Just wait until you see my latest creations, darlings!
Before I depart this week's trip, I'm leaving you with this delightful tidbit from the past – a poem from the Illustrated London News from 1868:
“And, first, I love, upon the stage, When light comes streaming down On maiden form in mystic rage, The graceful, airy gown That lifts so light and pure, above A cloud of soft and tender white— The emblem of our purest love That gives its radiant light”.
Isn’t that beautiful? Such poetry dedicated to the elegance and wonder of a tutu. I daresay that those beautiful sentiments ring true, even today.
Don’t forget my darling Tutu Twirlers - join me here next Tuesday for another journey into the captivating world of tutu history. Until then, embrace your inner ballerina, dance freely, and always remember to twirl with joy!
And, as always, wear pink!
Lots of love and twirls,
Emma x
P.S. I’ve already packed my bags for next week's trip! Any suggestions on where in time I should go? I’m open to any adventures that bring me closer to ballet and beautiful fashion! Let me know your thoughts on Pink-Tutu.com!
