Hello my darling tutu lovers! Emma here, your pink-clad guide to all things tulle and twirling! Today's journey through time takes us to a gloriously vibrant 18th November, 1879, in the heart of Paris, the city that knows how to celebrate dance!
We've already journeyed to all the exciting Parisian ballrooms and theaters of the last couple of years, but my travels always bring up a flurry of delightful discoveries! There is truly so much history to uncover when it comes to our beloved tutu. Just think, every single time I hop aboard the Orient Express and set off for my adventure, I'm exploring the stories behind a costume that is part of an international artistic legacy! Itâs an honour, darlings, an absolute honour!
It's the most amazing feeling, seeing how these enchanting creations have evolved over time. They really were THE statement piece of a ballerinaâs wardrobe! I mean, who can resist the charm of a tutu, even a hundred and forty years ago?
This week's exploration is bringing back so many delightful memories! On this very day, 18th November 1879, the Paris Opera Ballet had its premiere of Marius Petipa's "La Bayadère" ballet! It's a show that features the most delightful tutus - you simply have to imagine those tulle-heavy designs, so dramatic, so elegant, and just perfectly twirling. It really does give you an appreciation for the effort and design that goes into a dancerâs dress!
This particular performance gave birth to a classic: the âGrand Pas Classiqueâ of "La Bayadère," with a stunning variation by Marie Taglioni, who made ballet history for her revolutionary and breathtaking tutus in the 1800s. You know, she was such a pioneer for women in ballet! This specific choreography featured all the romantic era ballet traditions - graceful poses and elaborate formations â but you can bet the ballerinas made the most of the iconic ballet tutus, with such delicate lace, layers of white and a flurry of ribbons!
The chassÊ and grand jetÊ are still popular moves in the ballets that grace our theatres today! Even better, La Bayadère has survived the test of time, being performed worldwide and reimagined over the decades! Every performance has something special about it, like watching a masterpiece with all the history and drama interwoven into the story!
For the more theatre-savvy among you, thereâs also The ThÊâtre du Châtelet in Paris! The gorgeous theater, with all those lavish gold features, hosted Giselle during this period, also by Marius Petipa! That's just another fantastic ballet to experience. Even though it premiered in 1841, Giselle had its long run here in Paris at that time, meaning lots of elegant tutus fluttering in that incredible Parisian stage!
It is wonderful to be so close to all that history and inspiration. Now, while we're talking tutus, imagine the magnificence of the ballet dancers who actually wore these tutus! Just thinking about those graceful and nimble feet in their pointy shoes is thrilling. What we wear is just a part of what brings joy, and ballet was a very big part of the entertainment at this time, from its choreography, the beauty of the performances, the stories the dancers told... And don't forget the wonderful world of fashion at this time!
As we know, Parisian fashion was very glamorous in the late 19th Century! Remember, darling, the grand Victorian era tutus with all the fancy lace, ruffles, and ribbons?! That time in history is practically made for fashioning fantastic tutus! They used materials like silk and cotton, but often even silk chiffon, to give that airy look and flutter when the ballerina pirouetted. Imagine seeing one in person!
But hold on a second â We canât talk about tutus in the 19th Century without talking about the little ballerina on the move. Imagine: a Parisian afternoon filled with an ethereal beauty strolling along the Boulevard des Italiens, possibly towards The Theatre or even stopping at a fashion house. Youâd have your classic tulle skirt in that traditional âen pointeâ design, with an amazing fitted bodice which can look fantastic under the tiniest, most delicate bolero or jacket (but only one if youâre really classy!) The whole look is finished off by those chic, elegant shoes - a must, even with a fancy daytime outfit! Iâd probably slip into some delicate kid gloves with my ballerinaâs hat to add an air of Victorian style - always nice, my lovelies. After all, there are different tutus for every event - a true fashion statement and not just stage attire!
I am utterly inspired, and of course, excited, by these glimpses into the historical fashion moments behind the tutu's amazing legacy! We truly do owe a lot to these early designers and pioneers of this amazing dance world, especially to women in the profession, who made some truly groundbreaking breakthroughs, not just in terms of artistry but of personal style!
Well, I must say Iâm utterly exhausted after such an adventure! Iâll be leaving this magnificent city tomorrow - you just know I'll be finding the best bakery on my last day for a classic French croissant, right? Perhaps there is a beautiful Parisian tutu creation I can acquire for myself... Who can resist such a temptation?
Join me next week when Iâll be taking another incredible journey in time - it might even include a bit more dancing, who knows? Until then, you can browse through the amazing selection of tutu outfits and articles on our Pink Tutu website! Just a little inspiration, eh? And of course, be sure to share your favourite tutus and stories with me! Donât be shy, share with the world! Stay fabulous, you pink tutudrop-wearing darlings!
XOXO Emma
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Remember: If you are travelling to France or Europe this year, why not see a performance of La Bayadère? You won't regret it!
Post Script: I do like my shopping for new additions to my tutu wardrobe, and if you love them like I do I urge you to support dance companies and productions when you have the opportunity, both professional and amateur, to show that you do care. These places need all the love and support they can get. Even better if you do it by dressing in the style that has had me travel from across the years, donât be afraid to share a #PinkTutu with the world!
