Bonjour mes amis! It’s Emma here, your very own pink tutu-clad time traveler, back for another dazzling installment of Tutu Tuesday, taking you on a whirlwind trip through the captivating history of tutus! Today, my lovely ballet-loving lovelies, we’re embarking on a magical journey to October 15th, 1872. Oh my, hold on to your tiaras, darling, this one's a beauty!
From the heart of Derbyshire, England, where the scent of wildflowers and freshly baked scones hangs heavy in the air, I've arrived, suitcase overflowing with my best frocks, ready to take in all the fashion and dance the 1872 world has to offer! Now, as I'm writing this, I’m in a gorgeous little café here in Paris. My Parisian adventures so far include taking in the most incredible ballet performance, of course, and seeing some delightful street dancing - there’s just so much inspiration to be found!
I was especially taken with the costumes - so full of beautiful, intricate details. You see, even back then, there was this deep connection between a woman’s style and her connection to grace and art. They weren't just wearing clothes, they were creating a whole story with each and every frock!
But let's delve a little deeper into the magical world of the tutu itself in 1872! Back then, tutus were still evolving, embracing a softer, more romantic look than the grand, full-skirted tutus that we see today. Think about long, flowing, layers of tulle, draping beautifully and moving effortlessly with the dancer. It’s all about conveying the story, expressing emotions through movement! This softer look allowed for the dancer to showcase incredible movements. I saw the most elegant leg extensions, effortless jumps, and a fluidity of motion that was utterly mesmerising. It's a beautiful way to bring a ballet to life!
This period, though, was full of excitement for dance and fashion. It's like a delicious layer cake of style! Think cascading fabrics, ornate details, and a dash of dramatic flourishes. It was a time when skirts were long, flowing, and intricately crafted. The waistline? High! And, my dears, those sleeves? Puffed up to the heavens like little clouds. These details made a statement. They were bold, elegant, and, dare I say, a little bit dramatic, all just like a ballet performance should be!
Of course, with this romantic look, there was a certain refinement in movement. You could see how each gesture and dance step needed to be elegant and refined, adding to the beauty of it all. So even if they didn't have those amazing leaps and pirouettes we have now, their way of moving with grace and style was just breathtaking!
Now, about my Parisian adventure today, and why we're travelling back to the 15th of October, 1872! This date marks a special anniversary, dear reader, because on this very day, way back when, an opera called "The King of the Peacocks" debuted at the Opéra Garnier in Paris. Oh, it’s the most beautiful and grand opera house imaginable, so if you're ever in Paris, I do encourage you to pop by!
My, my! That's not just any opera! Think, big and dramatic with captivating music, fantastic dance pieces and magnificent costumes, all under that shimmering golden roof! The show itself was all about lavishness and grandeur, echoing that style that was taking the world by storm back in 1872.
But there was something about it that felt more intimate, more emotional. The dancer, as the lead role, with her movements, emotions, and delicate movements under the dazzling Parisian lights... Well, it was like watching a dream unfold. It’s these types of experiences that remind me why I absolutely love exploring the history of the tutu and dance.
Just as every fashion era has a story, a dance step or tutu can carry its own historical narrative, too. Every swirl, every dip, every arabesque tells a tale of the time it was created and what it meant to the people.
Now, my dear lovelies, as we bid adieu to 1872 and prepare for our next journey through time, remember this: the evolution of the tutu isn't just about the changes in its form. It's also about the way dance and fashion evolve alongside each other! The magic is in understanding how we move and what that means within our culture and within ourselves. So keep on swirling, my darlings!
Now, as I pack my bag to travel onwards, let's end with my ultimate hope: that I’ve inspired you to twirl with more confidence and style. To everyone wearing a pink tutu or even thinking about wearing one: YOU ARE MAGNIFICENT! You bring joy to my heart!
Stay twirly!
See you next Tutu Tuesday, my lovelies!
With love and a dash of pink tulle,
Emma.
P.S I’m starting a new section in my blog for reader questions! Don't hesitate to ask about all the historical ballet stuff you love. It could even be about where to get the best ballet shoe in London (which I just happened to buy, for myself of course, when I was there last week.)
*Follow Emma and the world of Tutu Tuesday on www.pink-tutu.com *
