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#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1873-04-01

#TutuTuesday: Ballet Tutu History: A Victorian Glimpse - Post 2153

Bonjour mes amies! Welcome back to www.pink-tutu.com, your one-stop shop for all things tulle and twirls. Today, as it's a Tuesday, it's time for our weekly #TutuTuesday delve into the enchanting history of the ballet tutu!

Now, pack your parasols, grab your lace handkerchiefs, and hop aboard my imaginary carriage of time, as we're whisking ourselves back to 1st April, 1873. Imagine, if you will, the streets of Paris. Cobblestones glisten in the spring sunshine, charming shops boast the latest fashions, and a lively air of excitement hums throughout the city. We're on the eve of the Grand Prix de Paris, a coveted bicycle race, and Paris is buzzing with anticipation.

Today, however, we’re focusing on the more delicate form of performance: the ballet. Oh, how I'd have adored this era. While, let's be honest, tutus wouldn't be quite as pink as I'd like them, there was something truly elegant and graceful about their design back then. Gone were the rigid, weighty tutus of earlier years, and the ladies on stage had newfound freedom of movement thanks to light and flowing layers of tulle. Oh, imagine swirling across the stage like a ballerina in 1873!

A glimpse into 1873:

1st April 1873 saw a very special performance at the Paris Opéra – the premiere of the ballet La Source. The libretto is penned by Jules Barbier, the music by the iconic Léo Delibes (don’t worry if these names aren't familiar – they are to us, not to the people back then!), and the choreography is a masterpiece by Arthur Saint-Léon, who, I daresay, has a rightful place in the Hall of Tutu Fame.

The tutus, though not the fluffy, layered wonders of modern ballet, were, nonetheless, absolutely stunning. Imagine: soft, billowing layers of white tulle, almost like clouds dancing upon the stage. They are said to have reached the length of a short dress, perfectly balanced with short, tight bodices that would have cinched the waist like a ribbon. I'd imagine these ballerinas were true goddesses of the dance – all long, flowing limbs and impossibly delicate movements.

While pink might not have been the most prevalent colour, you can be sure there was plenty of ribbon and embellishment in those tutus. A hand-sewn rose, a few shimmering beads – just the right touch to elevate a beautiful ballerina into an ethereal dream on stage.

Speaking of dreams, my recent ballet adventure in London had me absolutely starry-eyed! Watching a live performance is truly magic, seeing how much passion, emotion, and sheer physicality is poured into each pirouette and arabesque. My recent acquisition at Harrods (a most charming pink, lace-trimmed petticoat - can you imagine? divine!), was the perfect outfit for the occasion.

Speaking of fashion, the importance of tutus goes far beyond ballet. We’re all, in a way, part of the ballet world! My latest collection of vintage lace blouses (imagine the Victorian silhouettes, perfect for a faux ballerina vibe!) is a testament to that. Even in the bustle of the city, the flowy fabric of my latest dress is a delicate reminder of a dancer's elegance.

You see, my friends, it is more than just the tutu – it is a feeling, a sensation of lightness and joy that fills every graceful step. It is the art of dance, and how the elegance of movement carries within it the spirit of creation and dreams.

So, on this #TutuTuesday, I encourage you all, regardless of age, shape, or size, to embrace your inner ballerina. Twirl, spin, and let your imagination take flight. Maybe wear a little pink - I'm a staunch advocate for the colour, as you all know! And most importantly, remember that every day can be a #TutuTuesday, where you can spread your own personal joy and style, leaving a bit of tulle-tastic sparkle wherever you go.

Until next time, remember – the world is your stage, and your own personal, pink, whimsical tutu is the perfect outfit for the show.

Much love, Emma

P.S. Don't forget to check back next Tuesday for more delicious ballet history and, as always, please feel free to comment, share your thoughts, and tag your #TutuTuesday outfits on social media. Let's make this whole tutu thing a real thing - let's turn the world pink!

#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1873-04-01