#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1880-08-17

Hello, my darlings! Emma here, your trusty Tutu Historian, bringing you another delectable dose of ballet fashion history, fresh from the pages of my time machine! Today, we're whisking ourselves back to August 17th, 1880, landing smack-dab in the heart of Paris - the epicentre of fashion, where tutus are positively thriving! 🇫🇷

It's a beautiful summer day. The streets of Paris are brimming with life - horse-drawn carriages jostling for space with bustling pedestrians, the air thick with the scent of freshly baked bread and jasmine. And of course, it’s an absolutely glorious time for the most stunning of outfits – those magnificent, billowing, frothy tutus that we adore! ✨

Now, on this very day, in 1880, there are a whole lot of exciting things going on that are a big deal for fashion lovers. I just know that you, my darling #TutuTuesday fans, are going to be thrilled to hear about these developments!

First up, the Paris Opera. A hub for dazzling dance and absolutely captivating costumes. Now, imagine - this year’s autumn ballet season will be absolutely stunning! A whirlwind of tutus, both classic and contemporary. My heart does a little pirouette at the thought! A must for anyone visiting Paris!

Speaking of tutus, it's interesting how things were developing at this time in the ballet world. For instance, you've got a major emphasis on lightweight tulle, designed for freedom of movement and dramatic flow, making for such magical choreography! Think swirling fabric catching the light - it just makes you want to leap up and dance along, doesn’t it?

Then, imagine, in this same era, the colour pink - oh, the darling colour! - has made such a grand entrance on the fashion stage, and with tutus. Pink isn't simply a pretty colour, my dear - it represents romance, sweetness, and feminine power. Now, isn’t that utterly enchanting? I simply adore seeing dancers wearing tutus in a lush pink - they embody a fairytale!

Just like everything else around the world, ballet fashion was undergoing a bit of a revolution. The ‘New Look’, which was happening in the 1880s, was about taking things back to elegance and romantic flairs. Well, let's be honest – we’ve seen a bit of this with the tutus and how they are becoming much more flowing.

But we can't talk about this era in ballet fashion without mentioning the introduction of long tunics. My heart just does a little flutter when I see them! This change in fashion reflects a transition in ballet. It moves from more dramatic and classical themes to a focus on romance. Tutus in a range of gorgeous colours, including a pale and delicate pink, are truly a beautiful way to bring in the ‘New Look’.

I absolutely love seeing a beautiful tutu teamed with a longer, flowing tunic. There's a wonderful symmetry in how those layers work, bringing a more ethereal air to the dancer’s performance. What a captivating contrast between the shorter tutu, all flouncy and full, and a tunic gracefully gliding beneath!

Speaking of ballet fashion, I just have to mention one last fascinating development – there’s a new boom in ready-to-wear garments. While these items may not be the most exquisite designer pieces, they're accessible and allow people to enjoy the fashion without breaking the bank!

This change opens up fashion for more people, and in a way that connects them to the excitement of the ballet. And of course, a ready-to-wear tutu will always bring a smile to my face. Don't you just love how dance and fashion can connect like this? It's pure joy for everyone!

I just adore seeing how tutu fashion continues to evolve. Just as Paris played such a big role in this story back in 1880, its influence continues. I’m a bit of a Parisian at heart! To be honest, there's simply no place like it for ballet and fashion enthusiasts!

Every week, I explore this delightful history of ballet fashion in my #TutuTuesday posts, and each time, I discover something truly enchanting about how the tutu, a little bit of fabric, has changed with the times. Just like Paris itself!

So, my lovelies, I'm off to a delightful ballet class here in Derbyshire! And while we’re on the subject of the “new look” - did I mention, darling, I have been adding just a hint of delicate lace and feathers to my tutus recently? I think I might add a little bit of a ruffle or a frill! Such a sweet, romantic style, perfect for a twirl under the afternoon sun!

Join me again next Tuesday for another #TutuTuesday adventure - we'll take a peek at the evolution of the ballerina’s shoes! And, don't forget, if you haven't already, to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com for more tutu inspiration, fashion tips and more stories! Until then, be a good girl and go out there and dance like nobody is watching! 🩰 💖