Hello, lovelies! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, back with another #TutuTuesday! This week, I’ve taken a trip back in time to 28th February, 1882. Oh, the adventures! 🚂
I’m sitting here in the heart of Paris, amidst the flurry of fashion houses and bustling boulevards, all ready to delve into the history of the tutu, a subject I adore with all my heart!
Now, this was a time when tutus were really taking flight (pun intended!). Back in the early 1800s, they were often just billowing, long skirts that barely gave the dancers any freedom of movement. But then, enter Marie Taglioni, a goddess in her own right, who, with her breathtakingly beautiful pirouettes and the sheer artistry of her performances, ushered in a new era – a more romantic, elegant era where the tutu became the symbol of grace, artistry and liberation.
And wouldn’t you know it, February 1882 is smack bang in the middle of this exciting time for ballet! In the hallowed halls of the Opéra Garnier, the dancers were already swirling and leaping in their iconic short, layered tutus, allowing them to move with a lightness and freedom unheard of before. The shorter skirt allowed the dancers’ legs to be showcased, making the choreography even more fluid and breathtakingly beautiful.
Now, let me tell you, the Parisians just love a good show! Especially those fancy folk who come to the theatre with their fancy hats and those amazing coats. Speaking of coats, remember that stunning coat I saw the other day in the window of a Parisian shop? I just adore those bold, deep colours. Maybe next time I visit, I’ll finally take a plunge and treat myself to a proper Parisian coat!
On this specific Tuesday, though, I have a real treat planned for myself: a visit to the Opéra Garnier! You know, there's something so wonderful about watching a live performance of classical ballet. The feeling of the energy flowing through the entire audience, the hushed anticipation as the music starts, and the sheer exhilaration when the dancers take to the stage – there's simply nothing else like it!
But before I leave the past, let's not forget the real star of the show: the tutu! And can you believe that those early 1800s versions, those floor-length beauties, would be unthinkable in a modern ballet performance? Can you imagine the struggles those ballerinas had trying to execute even a simple pirouette! 😵 It just wouldn’t be possible. I am forever thankful for the invention of the shorter tutu!
Speaking of gratitude, let's also appreciate the sheer variety of tutus we see today, from the elegant pointe shoes to the playful tutus used in more modern and experimental works. Honestly, the evolution of the tutu is a testament to the ingenuity of fashion, and that is something that deserves to be celebrated!
Don’t worry lovelies, this is not my last trip back in time. And before you ask, the biggest fashion highlight in the Parisian world at this moment was a beautiful, embroidered cape that I found hidden away in the vintage shop! My new plan is to incorporate this amazing find in my next outfit, paired, of course, with my beloved pink tutu.
And that’s all, folks! Remember, life's a dance, so put on your tutu, find your joy, and keep twirling! 💕
Don't forget to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest! #TutuTuesday #BalletHistory #TimeTravellingTutu
Stay beautiful and fabulous, my dears!
Until next week,
Emma 🩰💕
