Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu enthusiast, Emma, back with another peek into the fascinating world of ballet history! 🕰️ Today we're venturing back to March 15th, 1881, a date that feels practically ancient compared to our shimmering, sparkly present.
This is blog post number 2568 for my beloved Ballet Tutu History, which, as you know, I post every Tuesday at www.pink-tutu.com.
And as usual, I'm wearing my favourite pink tutu! It's positively sparkling with sequins today, reflecting all the wonder of the past as I journey back in time. This particular creation, courtesy of Miss Mabel's Boutique in Derbyshire, is a little bit special, though. The fabric is a delightful shade of rosebud pink, with a touch of that enchanting silk that always makes me feel like I'm gliding through the clouds. ☁️
My latest time-hopping adventures brought me to the heart of Paris! The city itself, even this far back in time, is a marvel! Cobblestones underfoot, the sweet scent of freshly baked bread in the air, and a cacophony of horses, carriages, and laughter that vibrates with a thrilling energy. But what truly captivated me this time wasn't just the beauty of the city itself – it was the Paris Opera Ballet!
Oh, the spectacle of it all! I had the absolute pleasure of seeing the legendary dancer, Marie Taglioni, in a breathtaking performance. Imagine, if you will, the ethereal grace, the airy lightness of movement… pure artistry embodied in the very essence of the dance! I swear I felt a shiver down my spine as she soared across the stage!
Now, let's talk tutus! In 1881, tutus weren't quite the extravagant, flamboyant affairs they are today. There weren't any layers of tulle, no feathers, and certainly no sequins as we see in modern designs! The "tutu" then was, you might say, a simpler creation - just a few layers of delicate cotton netting gathered around the waist. It served a purpose – it was the dance attire for ballerinas. Think about it! Without it, all those intricate steps and turns would have been quite the sight to behold!
And oh, the dresses! Think flowing silks and velvet with boned bodices, elaborate lace trimmings, and perhaps a whisper of ribbons in shades of lilac or violet, paired with intricate hairstyles that seem to touch the clouds.
Speaking of clothes, a highlight of my time travel this week was a trip to Au Bon Marché, Paris's premier department store! I was positively delighted! The silks were as smooth as velvet, the ribbons a kaleidoscope of colour, and the selection of gloves – oh, the gloves! Such delightful patterns and embroidery – each piece was like a tiny work of art! I can't deny I succumbed to temptation, adding a lovely pair of rosebud-coloured gloves to my collection, their delicate frills reminding me of my favourite tutu's embellishments. 😉
The Opéra Garnier, the venue where Taglioni graced the stage, was a feast for the eyes! The architecture was magnificent! The ornate interiors, the gleaming marble floors, the magnificent chandeliers – everything simply radiates an aura of extravagance and timeless beauty! The place was bursting with energy – the rustle of silken dresses, the murmuring voices of the audience, the clatter of theatre staff in their hurried to-and-fro… it all gave me that enchanting sense of theatre magic I simply adore!
Imagine, darlings, the excitement! It’s a wonder this whole ballet thing ever started! I mean, who could resist the call of music, artistry, and graceful movement? It was captivating then and remains utterly enchanting now.
But, I do feel a slight pang of sadness. Imagine all those wonderful, graceful dancers without the pink tulle, the sparkly sequins, and the feathers we enjoy now! It’s quite unimaginable, isn't it? 😉
I, for one, will continue to dream about all the possibilities – the exquisite dance costumes, the majestic theaters, and the boundless enchantment of ballet that stretches across the ages, from the simplest tulle to the most dazzling display of artistry and technique.
Till next week, don't forget to embrace your inner ballerina and make a splash with a pink tutu! It’s a declaration, a symbol of joy and creativity, and an ode to the magical world of ballet that continues to captivate hearts across the world.
💖🩰 #TutuTuesday #BalletTutuHistory #PinkTutu #Travel #Emma
