Oh darling readers! Fancy a little trip down memory lane with me, to 1882? Not just any old day in 1882 mind you, but 14th March, 1882. The very day, drumroll... the tutu was born!
Now, before you think "Emma, how can that be true?" let's get a little historical context. We all know about that most wonderful, flowing, beautiful garment...the tutu, right? But the history is actually fascinating.
Remember last week's blog post about how the tutu was originally something practical, a simple, utilitarian skirt to wear under an ankle-length skirt so the dancer's movements were fluid and not hampered by fabric? We travelled right back to the early 1800s for that one! Well, things have certainly changed since then.
1882 saw a shift in how ballerinas moved, with steps becoming lighter and more acrobatic. Enter our dear friend, Maria Taglioni. A star dancer, she had this amazing vision of how a dancer's outfit could change, becoming part of the performance. She wanted it to be a visual spectacle, to reflect the magic of the ballet.
And so, it came to pass, on this lovely day in March, 1882, in Paris, Maria wore a breathtaking tutu onstage. It was white, and oh my goodness, just think of those flowing layers of tulle! She wore it while performing La Sylphide, a truly dreamy and mystical ballet that continues to enthral audiences to this very day. I must get to Paris to see it soon, imagine those delicate movements and that beautiful, floaty tutu!
Isn't that simply inspiring, darling readers? This wasn't a plain and simple garment anymore! It was something breathtaking, and changed the history of ballet. From a functional item, the tutu evolved into a breathtaking garment designed to celebrate the grace and movement of the dancers. Maria, you are truly the star!
After her success, everyone wanted to wear this lovely tutu, and so the ballerina's silhouette became streamlined, showing off the leg beautifully and becoming an integral part of the ballerina's elegant movements. Can you imagine a better costume?
So next time you’re watching a ballerina gracefully leaping and turning, take a moment to appreciate the history of the tutu and remember its evolution, that little whisper of fabric, so wonderfully expressive.
For all you aspiring dancers, and indeed all you fashion lovers, you too can appreciate a touch of tutu in your everyday life, Imagine yourself a little whimsical princess at a party, just think... a pink tutu will always bring out that inner magical fairy that you're hiding inside! 😉
And just imagine the thrill of traveling to Paris, oh la la! My last journey was to Derbyshire, England, for a visit with family. My darling grandfather took me to a wonderful cafe that served pink meringue - he's the best at spoiling me! We walked in the sunshine, watched the clouds drift by and he told me stories from his younger days. I can't wait for him to join me on my next big adventure.
Oh my goodness, what will I wear for this upcoming performance to earn funds for my next grand tour?! I’ve got my eye on this fabulous sequined lilac number - perfect for a gala evening at the theatre. And did I tell you I saw a stunning blue dress last week on Bond Street? It’s perfect, a touch of elegance with that dramatic, ruffled sleeve - you must come with me!
But for now, dear reader, I'll be thinking about the graceful *ballerinas on the stage, those beautiful tutus in all their glory.
You too can experience the beauty and elegance of tutus, in your life, or for an afternoon tea, an art gallery visit - whatever you like! 😉
Stay chic and fabulous!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
Don't forget to check in every Tuesday for a brand-new blog post in our #TutuTuesday series, about the history of the tutu and the world of dance!
This is an amazing tutu, you may want to update your current one to something pink?!
This gorgeous pink one looks wonderful.
