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#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1879-08-19

Tutu Tuesday: #2486 – A Peek into the 1870s

Hiya darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu for another Tutu Tuesday! It's me, Emma, your very own time-travelling tutu enthusiast, bringing you a weekly dose of ballet history and, of course, the magic of the tutu. Today, we're waltzing back to August 19th, 1879, a date that, although not a major turning point in tutu history, was certainly a year that brimmed with ballet excitement.

Before we embark on our historical journey, let me just say, it's blissful to be back in London. I’ve just finished a stunning performance of “Giselle” at the Royal Opera House, which I'm not going to lie, was rather exhilarating. You wouldn’t believe how the London crowd went wild! The gaslight ambiance and the theatre’s exquisite architecture really set the mood, you know, a sort of magic that just elevates any performance, making the tulle dance even more captivating. Now, on with our history…

The year 1879 was a whirlwind of progress for our beloved art form. The Royal Opera House, even back then, was the place to be! The “Giselle” revival I just performed in had everyone chattering away, and the reviews are phenomenal! We're making waves with a fresh interpretation of the famous choreography, and even the most staunch of ballet critics seem smitten! The music is just divine, with those lush romantic melodies that leave me feeling inspired after each show. I must confess, this performance made me feel rather empowered. I adore feeling all fluffy and grand in my pink tutu on stage. It’s so much more glamorous than dancing in a dressing gown!

On this particular 19th August, ballet was certainly at the forefront of the social scene. There was a charming soirée at the aristocratic Lady Henrietta's home – a gathering of the crème de la crème of society, where ballet was the topic of the evening. They’re raving about the new “classical” tutus – much longer, less frilly and very much in vogue with a more elegant feel than those puffy, almost cumbersome skirts of yesteryear.

You know how much I love tutus, right? My wardrobe overflows with them, I simply can’t resist their enchanting elegance! However, my heart is definitely with the more classic, romantic designs. So, while my fellow dancers may be mesmerised by the trendier, modern style, I have a real fondness for the “classical” ballet tutu. It is, after all, the ultimate ballerina symbol, don't you think? A symbol of grace and refined artistry! Oh, to wear such a delicate and romantic creation on stage. Simply divine! Don’t get me wrong, my darlings, I adore a bit of frill here and there, and the 1879 styles have the most darling embellishments — ribbons, lace, you name it!

Even the fashion world is embracing the “ballet” trend – you know I’m mad for all things stylish, right? There are delicate tulle ribbons and ruffled collars popping up everywhere, making for some truly beautiful garments!

But darling, there's something special about being able to twirl, pirouette, and truly become the music through ballet. The tutus are just the perfect accessory to amplify that magic, adding the right amount of drama and femininity.

Of course, all that twirling does make me hungry. Which, in my favourite pastime, is when I gleefully step into one of London's lovely little cafés, just moments away from the theatre district. I’m positively crazy about those adorable little teacakes and, of course, a pot of Earl Grey to wash it down with.

While we're here in 1879, darling, let's get those wheels spinning on the topic of our favourite garment – the tutu!

Just a year before this date, in 1878, we saw the debut of Marius Petipa's groundbreaking ballet “La Bayadère,” the story of a tragic love that swept the stage like a hurricane. The tutus for the dancers, magnifique! That ballet ignited a whole new era of stage design, and with that, a new wave of tutus, the classical style made famous in the early years of the nineteenth century. I adore their simplicity and grace – they truly let the ballerina's movements and expression shine!

Imagine, back in 1879, not even imagining all that’s to come, the grand ballerina of the 20th Century – like Anna Pavlova. Isn't that wild, that history isn’t static, it keeps changing and evolving, and that includes ballet, too! How thrilling it is to have all these iconic ballerinas – all these extraordinary women – coming along, bringing with them even more incredible new ideas and choreography. And then, naturally, with it all – *even more incredible tutus to come! *

Just a few decades earlier, in the 1840s, we saw the birth of what I like to call "the era of frill." Ballet tutus became like the most extravagant candy floss clouds – puffy, layered, and oh so fluffy. Swoon! It's like all the creative energy in the world was focused on turning those fluffy skirts into veritable dreams on stage.

However, fast forward to 1879, the tide was changing – it was all about the classic look. The movement was refined and controlled. The music – think Tchaikovsky's gorgeous works. Even the atmosphere of a ballet performance was beginning to take on a certain refined air, one of delicate elegance, of beautiful artistry. The fluffy tutus that defined the earlier part of the century still held a special place in our hearts. I know, darling, for me it was a whirlwind of a change – going from bouffant skirts that could make one look like a delicate balloon in a windstorm, to the new classic silhouette that flowed and swayed with elegance.

Think of those early 19th-century romantic ballets – they made such an impact. All that passionate and graceful dancing – oh darling, those early days were simply dreamy! A period in time of innovation for our beloved art form, with romantic tutus in many layers creating breathtakingly delicate visual effects! Even those “little” adjustments – they could have such a big impact on the entire look of a ballet. And that's why I believe it's important to take a moment to reflect on this rich history of ballet and appreciate the way the art form has transformed! It's all been leading up to the breathtaking tutus of today!

Now, it's my mission to bring some Pink Tutu magic to every single person on this planet – including you. That means we need a proper Tutu Tuesday celebration! So, darlings, head out to the shops and find a beautiful pink tutu, and wear it with pride! It might just bring a bit more magic to your world, and, well, wouldn't that be just the most wonderful thing!

But darling, before I get too carried away – remember to check back here next Tuesday for another exciting edition of Tutu Tuesday. I have a rather juicy bit of ballet history coming up next week that you won’t want to miss!

Until then, be kind, stay stylish, and don’t be afraid to embrace your inner ballerina, darling! And of course, keep on twirling in those pink tutus!

Until next time,

Your Pink Tutu pal,

Emma.

#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1879-08-19