Hello Darlings!
Welcome back to Pink Tutu, the only place on the internet where you can get your weekly dose of all things tulle! As you know, this Tuesday we take a trip back through time to delve into the fascinating history of the ballet tutu, exploring its evolution and how it's changed throughout the years.
This week, my time machine has landed us on 30th November 1880, in the heart of Paris, the undisputed capital of fashion and dance. Imagine: bustling Parisian streets, cobblestone sidewalks echoing with the clatter of horse-drawn carriages, the scent of freshly baked croissants hanging in the air... oh, the Parisian charm!
But why Paris, you ask? Well, dear readers, Paris is where the ballet tutu as we know it today truly took its first twirling steps. It was here, in the ateliers of the most talented designers, that the classic form of the tutu evolved from the layers of stiffened skirts worn by earlier dancers.
The year 1880 marks a significant milestone in tutu history because it was a pivotal year for the legendary ballerina, Marie Taglioni, who was known as "The Muse of Romanticism." You see, Marie and her sisters Paulina and Carlotta became the pioneers of La Danse romantique, a movement in dance that demanded a completely new and innovative design.
Gone were the heavy, voluminous skirts. In their place, dancers now wanted to showcase their movement, their light, ethereal quality and ability to glide effortlessly. So, they began wearing lighter skirts.
And voila! The romantic tutu, made with a multitude of tulle layers and designed to allow for freer movement, was born. Marie Taglioniās tutu for her famous solo in "La Sylphide" (a piece celebrating sylph-like spirits) became the inspiration and symbol of a new era for the ballet tutu. This style allowed dancers to create incredible visual effects and become truly ethereal figures, a delicate silhouette gracefully skimming across the stage.
It's hard to imagine what ballet would be without the classic, flowing tutu. That's why my mission is to keep this history alive, spreading the joy of the ballet tutu to the entire world! I'm even on a quest to get everyone wearing one, at least for a day! (Although, personally, I'd encourage everyone to make it a permanent feature of their wardrobe ā think of the confidence boost!)
As you can see, dear readers, this fascinating journey through time isnāt only about the clothes; it's also about the impact of the dance itself. In fact, a few steps away from my Parisian time machine, you can find the renowned Paris Opera Ballet , where they are already busy rehearsing for a new production of "La Sylphide." Oh, I simply must go watch the rehearsal! A true fashion icon, Marie Taglioni is on my list of inspirational ladies to emulate! She had such a stunning silhouette! Perhaps one day I'll get to recreate her signature look and dance āLa Sylphideā on the same stage as Marie! After all, itās not a secret that pink is one of my favourite colours, and pink tulle simply takes centre stage on a beautiful stage. The beauty of a ballet tutu on a dancers's body can never be understated.
But before I dash off to watch some Parisian rehearsal magic, there's a wonderful Parisian tea room right here near the ballet school. Think delicate macarons, teacups, lace doilies, and beautiful dresses, just as enchanting as Marieās choreography! Now, I wonder if Iāll find myself surrounded by fashionable, lovely ladies adorned in their very own beautiful tutusā¦ just like me? Perhaps a little dream to imagine, but isn't that what makes life so magical?
Don't forget to follow Pink Tutu on all your favorite social media channels and come back next week, darlings, for more fun and fantastic tutu adventures from my fabulous, time-travelling self! I hope you have an exciting week full of twirls, giggles, and a dash of French chic! And, always remember:
Life is better in pink - especially with a tutu!
Bisous, Emma
