Hello, darlings! It's your favourite pink-tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, and welcome back to another #TutuTuesday!
Today, my vintage chronometer tells me we're waltzing our way back to August 22nd, 1882. Can you imagine? We're heading to the heart of the Victorian Era!
Now, before we dive into the swirling history of tutus, I just had to squeeze in a little tidbit about my trip! I just adore train travel - the chugging engine, the plush velvet seats, and the tantalising promise of new adventures! It was quite the journey to get here, let me tell you, but nothing beats arriving in London and feeling that delightful buzz of excitement! I already popped into Harrods for a peek at the latest fashions - their display of silks and velvets is quite simply divine. Did I mention I picked up a stunning emerald green dress? Just perfect for an evening at the opera! 🎭
But enough about me, let's get to the main attraction - those heavenly, swishy tutus! 😉 Now, I must confess, 1882 wasn't quite the pinnacle of tutu fashion we see today. In fact, it was more the age of the ballet skirt, which was quite the transformation from the traditional "Romantic Tutu". Picture it, dear readers, a full-length skirt, billowing like a cloud and made of soft tulle. Imagine it being adorned with tiers and embellishments - so glamorous, so beautiful, so very Victorian! It's not exactly what springs to mind when we think of a ballerina, is it?
It was during this period that the Romantic ballet was evolving, with the graceful movements and delicate steps, and these skirts were ideal for expressing that artistry! The focus was on lightness, movement, and creating a flowing and airy image. You can just picture those beautiful dancers in their lavish ballet skirts, whirling across the stage! 🤩
But here's the catch - the ballet skirts were not as universally accepted in the ballet world back then! The Romantic Ballet and the era’s love of the flowing form was coming to an end. New trends emerged, focusing on greater athleticism, and those skirts were too much! Think Lev Ivanov and the rise of classical ballet with tighter lines! In time, those magnificent skirts were shortened, leaving just the brief, flirty length of a tutu that we adore today! 🩰
Now, speaking of flirty and delightful, let's have a peek at what happened on this date, August 22nd, 1882:
"The Sorcerer," by Sir Arthur Sullivan, premiered at the Savoy Theatre in London. It's quite a comedic opera! Fancy a lighthearted chuckle alongside some enchanting music? Then pop along and witness the "bubbling magic" yourself! 😉
The world of photography continued its grand advancements, with many significant developments in the making. A perfect time to get a stunning photograph of your dazzling ballerina moves, I daresay! 📸
Remember, dear readers, I am all about making every day a tutu day! Embrace the whimsy, the beauty, and the undeniable joy that comes from wearing a pink tutu. Even in 1882, when ballet was transitioning into the elegant elegance that we know and love, the allure of the tutu was present in those glorious long skirts! Let your spirit dance and don't be afraid to express yourself through the magical power of pink! 💖
Remember, my next #TutuTuesday is just a week away! Keep those tutus twirling and don't forget to leave a comment with your own little tutu adventures below. And, until next week, let the tutu-tastic magic flow! 💖
Your devoted ballet-loving blogger, Emma
