#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1879-12-16

Hello darlings! It's Emma here, your pink-tutu-clad time traveller, ready to whisk you back to another era in dance history! This week, we're swirling into the 16th of December, 1879 – a truly fascinating date in ballet's development! It’s hard to believe, but tutus were actually quite new back then, you know! (But never fear, you won't find me wearing one of those poofy, heavy, romantic era tutus; I prefer a whimsical, airy tulle that moves beautifully – think Parisian ballet!).

Welcome to Blog Post No. 2503, everyone! For those just joining me, this #TutuTuesday blog explores the fascinating history of ballet tutus – all with a bit of a pink sparkle! My mission, dear readers? To celebrate this beloved garment and convince the world to don a tutu every now and then – you'll find pink is the perfect shade! Let's hop on a vintage train – think elegant compartments with plush velvet seating – and begin our journey through time.

1879! We're right in the heart of the late Victorian era – a time of romantic elegance, and yes, dramatic and very detailed ballet costumes, too!

Remember, ballet was primarily in France back then, Paris being the absolute centre of the universe for this beautiful art form. It wasn't until later, after this date, that other countries began to really embrace it.

In this year, ballet tutus had finally ditched those long, heavy layers, which made dancing nearly impossible. Think elegant but practical! It was all about showing off the beautiful movements, which, thankfully, we can see with these lovely tutus. Imagine delicate, diaphanous tulle cascading over lithe legs, sparkling in the light, a visual feast for the senses! The tutu had become lighter and more free flowing, like a delicate dance of the wind.

And what better colour for such grace? Why, pink of course! In 1879, pink tutus were truly becoming fashionable. Imagine it, darlings! The elegant ladies in the audience, gasping with awe at the beautiful blushing pink, the movement it allows, the feminine charm it brings – a vision to behold.

The romantic era wasn't quite gone yet, which meant, yes, there was still that 'flowing-cloud-of-fabric' effect, but it was a gentler version, more practical, for easier pirouettes! Can you imagine performing without them? You'd be a crumpled mess of layers! It was also starting to highlight the female form. Much more flattering, you know?

Before we go on to that very important ballet performance happening tonight, let's pause to explore the shops. Ah, I do love wandering the boulevards of Paris, window-shopping and watching elegant Parisians stroll by.

Let's imagine popping into a beautiful lace boutique, adorned with shimmering ribbons and delicate trims. Inside, the air is sweet with the aroma of starched linen and lavender – ah, such nostalgia. You see, ladies were very concerned with elegance and practicality back then. What better way to achieve that romantic ballerina look than with the perfect tulle and lace accessories!

Tulle was often seen used as decorative neckline trim, ruffles on sleeves, or perhaps even the accent to a *stylish petticoat. We may love our fluffy modern tutus now, but back then, those intricate trimmings of lace were all the rage. Imagine a dainty silk underskirt adorned with ruffles, a glimpse of tulle peaking out under the delicate fabric, the perfect whisper of pink beneath. Simply *delightful, wouldn’t you agree?

Oh, but before you go to your nearest vintage shop in search of lace, remember this – nothing beats a pink ribbon. Think the most delicate bow adorning a charming straw hat or an ornate necklace of pearls! Now, tell me, doesn’t it make you feel a twirl in your toes?

Well, ladies and gentlemen, it's the evening of December 16th, 1879. Paris glitters with anticipation for the premiere of a new ballet – *La Source. It was considered *quite the scandal at the time – the story's more 'sultry' than 'fluffy'. But hey, that's Paris, eh? Always a little bit dramatic!

And for a performance like this, we just have to dress to impress, don't we? A delicate rosebud-pink dress with ruffled tiers and sparkling jewelry, oh, so Parisian! (I personally can never get enough jewelry.) You'd need to choose your shoes very carefully. Think lovely patent leather dancing shoes, perhaps a dash of sparkle around the toes – just to enhance those movements, of course!

A gentle rumble on the carriage, the sounds of Paris as the horses move along the cobblestone streets, oh the romantic clatter! You can feel the energy of the theatre just waiting to erupt!

Imagine the velvet plush seats, the gleaming chandeliers casting an elegant light onto the stage, a soft scent of lavender perfume filling the air. A true sense of grandeur and timeless elegance pervades the whole place. The symphony orchestra begins to play a rousing, triumphant tune. You know a thrilling performance is about to unfold!

I bet they're already chatting away at the opera boxes – gossiping over refreshments! Those high-society types always have the most thrilling stories to share. They can talk and talk, even during the most emotional parts! That's always the case when you are 'in the know'!

We mustn't forget the applause, the beautiful roar of the Parisian crowds who have just been captivated by the skill of the dancers. This is Paris, the city of romance! You feel the music swell, the dancers soar on stage – oh, to be able to experience a world-renowned premiere such as this! The energy, the enthusiasm! There's no feeling like it!

Well, ladies, I hope I've inspired you to don a pink tutu on your next outing, whether it's to the theatre, a picnic in the park, or a fancy afternoon tea with your friends. A touch of pink tulle can add a touch of whimsy and joy to any day, don't you think?

Oh, before I go, don't forget to check back next Tuesday for another journey through ballet tutu history, a fascinating adventure on the timeline! I promise, it's always fun here in pink-tutu land! Remember, if you'd like to join me in time-traveling through the history of ballet, you can sign up for my exclusive newsletter on www.pink-tutu.com. It's packed full of insider information, and you get all sorts of insider details. Oh, and, if you fancy seeing my latest blog posts, check my #TutuTuesday blog. Every week there's something new! See you next week, darlings! Tutu much, and happy twirling!