Hello my lovely tutu-wearing darlings! 🩰 It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad, time-traveling blogger, bringing you another glorious instalment of #TutuTuesday - delving into the fascinating world of ballet tutus and how they’ve evolved over the centuries.
Today, I’m venturing back to July 4th, 1876. Yes, the United States' Independence Day! I was absolutely delighted to have my grand adventures here, right in the middle of the excitement! Of course, no tutu is truly complete without a little bit of historical context, so let's explore what this momentous day had to offer and how it influenced the fashion world of tutus.
American Independence, and Tutu-ific Celebrations!
You know, being British myself, Independence Day isn't something I celebrate quite the same way! But I must admit, seeing all the bunting, fireworks, and festive attire (a bit of patriotic pink was certainly a plus!), there's no denying it's a wonderful event. As I walked along the cobbled streets, the joyous sound of music and laughter filled the air - and what would celebrations be without some dancing, right? Now, 1876 was a tad before the explosion of tutus on the grand stage, so the outfits wouldn't be anything like what we see today! But it wasn't uncommon for the ladies to flaunt long skirts and elaborate dresses – something that certainly captures the essence of movement and graceful femininity, much like a ballet tutu!
Travel Notes from a Time-Traveling Ballerina
Now, the only way I'm jet-setting around history is by train! Imagine - carriages chugging through charming landscapes and the elegant "puff, puff" of steam - so very delightful. Luckily, my favourite shade of pink makes its appearance even in this era, and I snagged the prettiest floral-patterned bonnet for my trip! It complimented my travel ensemble - a billowing powder-pink dress (with a slight tulle trim around the hem, of course!) perfectly.
Speaking of the trip - my journey took me all the way from my Derbyshire roots to the bustling streets of New York City. I had my heart set on experiencing the incredible atmosphere of this rapidly growing city and seeing all that fashion had to offer. There were shops brimming with the most delightful fabrics, beautiful hats, and of course, I saw the first glimpse of "the American waltz!" Oh my, talk about romance! The swaying waltzes that graced the grand halls of New York society - there’s no denying that those flowing skirts had something of the ballerina spirit about them.
Tutu Trivia - What did Ballerinas wear in 1876?
Before we get ahead of ourselves, let's go back to the early stages of the tutu's story. 1876 was just beginning to see the evolution of what we know and love as the tutu! The stage was a little more demure, with the tutu taking the form of long, flowing skirts (often in multiple layers, adding a billowing effect that mimicked a sort of delicate ballet dress). It wasn't until later that we would see the full-fledged, shortened tulle tutu! Imagine the joy that would eventually spread through the dance world.
Fashion Inspiration: Tutus in 1876
Even if the true “tutu" wasn’t yet the fashion staple of the day, the long, layered, flowy gowns in 1876 were beautifully reminiscent. Imagine: silk and satin draped with grace, offering delicate flounces of movement - just like the tulle tutus we've all come to know and love.
Here are some key elements from fashion of this time that inspire us to channel the spirit of the tutu today!
- Voluminous silhouettes: This was the age of fullness and drama, with dresses expanding outwards from the shoulders. It was like a blossoming ballet dancer, and this beautiful movement was all the rage!
- Romantic designs: Imagine ruffles, delicate embellishments, flowing sleeves that swished with every move. These styles embody a sort of dreamy femininity - just like what I imagine ballet to be all about!
- Colour and textures: The colors were pastel shades - soft pink and peach, azure blues and subtle greens. There was a lightheartedness and playfulness in these colours - very fitting for the "pink-tutu" spirit! I even saw some incredible silks in intricate floral designs, offering the kind of delicate detailing I simply love!
My "Pink Tutu" Advice
I always believe we can be a little "extra" with our outfits, and who wouldn’t love a sprinkle of ballet style even if you don't own a real tutu. I encourage all my readers to channel the ballerina inside! Think of soft pinks and playful ruffles – and you’ll surely add that graceful touch of tutu-ness to any look.
I love incorporating those hints of ballet flair - a beautiful lace collar, a swirly silk skirt - that gentle nudge towards elegance, even in everyday attire. After all, tutus represent graceful freedom, confidence, and a celebration of femininity - don't you agree?
Until next Tuesday, stay tutu-ful and dream big! 🩰
Your pink-tutu-wearing blogger, Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
