Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite tutu-loving time traveller, Emma, back with another extra #TutuTuesday post. This week, we’re taking a trip back to 1st February 1881 - get your time travel gear ready, darlings, we’re going on an adventure! 💖
Post #2562: A Victorian Twirl
Imagine stepping out of your Derbyshire home in a crisp morning frost, your boots crunching on the cobblestone streets, your rosy cheeks a reflection of the winter sky. Oh, how I miss those lovely English villages!
Today, we’re whisked away to the heart of Paris, where fashion reigns supreme. This date in 1881 marks the grand opening of Le Palais Garnier, the iconic Paris Opera House. We’re talking lavish, grand, a dream in marble and velvet! I’m pretty sure my tutu would look absolutely splendid amidst those gilded chandeliers and ornate tapestries.
But, back to tutus! We're on a quest to trace the lineage of these fluffy marvels, so let’s peek at what those lovely Parisian ballerinas wore back in 1881. Forget the graceful, swirling designs we know today – tutus were all about structure and drama. Think elaborate skirts with tiers upon tiers of tulle, painstakingly stitched together, a bit more like a ballerina cake, to be honest. They were heavier, they were more rigid, and definitely not a breezy twirl in a warm Parisian night.
This era favoured what’s called the "Pagnol", a tight-fitting bodice, giving the dancers a more streamlined look, paired with those large, billowing tulle skirts. This combination wasn't ideal for complex footwork or delicate steps, but the visuals were striking, think of all those frills and tiers!
(Fun Fact alert: Did you know that those tight-fitting bodices were sometimes quite uncomfortable? Imagine a corset without any elasticity…oof, ouch! I’m so glad the times they are a-changing! 😉)
Theatrical Flair & a Dash of Romance
This time period in Paris was a heady mix of romanticism and grandeur. Opera, that ultimate form of storytelling and emotion, held a huge place in Parisian society. Think extravagant productions, beautiful singers belting out dramatic melodies and all those breathtaking set pieces. It’s no wonder tutus had a prime spot in the performance world. It was all about spectacle and romantic illusions – the kind of stuff that inspires dreamers and lovers everywhere.
And let's talk about the dances themselves. Ballet, as we know it today, was still developing. While the iconic ballerina positions and elegant leaps were emerging, things weren't quite as dynamic as what we enjoy now. Ballet wasn't as physically demanding as modern performances, a point which some may find surprising! More emphasis on graceful and expressive movements, all perfectly in keeping with that romanticist era.
(Did I mention I'm travelling in style? It wouldn't be a #TutuTuesday journey without a glamorous trip by train! Imagine velvet seats, glistening crystal glasses, and me, with a pink tutu perched neatly beside me! 👠💖🚂 )
Looking Back, Looking Forward
So there you have it, my dears! This week’s #TutuTuesday has whisked us to the Paris of 1881, giving us a glimpse into the tutu world of that period.
Just remember, my lovely tutues are a celebration of everything feminine, expressive, and joyful about dance. It's about empowerment, confidence, and being the most magnificent version of yourself. 💖
And that, my fellow tutu enthusiasts, is a look that never goes out of style!
Next week, we’ll dive deeper into the tutu timeline, so be sure to join me again on #TutuTuesday. And in the meantime, tell me - what is your favourite tutu style?
Until next week, stay twirling!
Emma xoxo
