Greetings, my darling darlings! Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina, back with another installment of #TutuTuesday on my beloved pink-tutu.com! It's so lovely to be back in my little corner of the internet, where all things tutu are celebrated.
Today, we're taking a grand jeté back to 22nd July 1884, just a little over a century ago. It's always so fascinating to see how the ballet world has evolved over the years, from the early days to the glitzy grandeur of today. And honestly, wouldn't it be smashing if everyone wore tutus? (Think about it!).
Now, let's journey to a place where ballet tutus really shine, Paris, the City of Lights! This was a time of flourishing artistry and dazzling creativity, and the world of ballet was no exception. Imagine Parisian streets awash with ladies in beautiful gowns and the scent of roses, with a hint of jasmine and freshly baked pastries hanging in the air... And imagine me waltzing through them in a billowing pink tutu! (Who wouldn't be captivated, darling?)
1884 - The Age of Romantic Ballet
In the Parisian ballet world of 1884, the Romantic period was still holding its own. Think ethereal fairies, heartbroken heroines, and a strong emphasis on expressive movements and beautiful costumes. Tutus, of course, played a key role in portraying these ethereal characters.
You might be surprised to know, the tutu wasn't always the showstopper we know and adore today! In the early years of ballet, dancers actually wore longer, flowing skirts that would have been far less practical for leaps and turns!
Enter the Short Tutu!
The mid-19th century saw a pivotal shift towards shorter tutus that showed off the graceful lines of a dancer's body. Think of Marie Taglioni, the "goddess of the dance", famous for her light, airy style and revolutionary tutus, and it all makes sense. The tutu became a symbol of the ballet itself, a canvas for artistry and a crucial element in bringing those beautiful characters to life.
On this Very Day
As for our very special date, 22nd July 1884, imagine what kind of Parisian delights were happening on this summery day. Perhaps there was a new ballet opening, with a flurry of feathered hats and twinkling chandeliers filling the theater! Or maybe a beautiful ballerina was being showered with congratulations after a triumphant performance.
The French Connection
It’s safe to say that the French connection with the tutu is strong, darlings! And why not? They're masters of elegant, romantic style, after all. They understood that tutus, like delicious macarons or elegant perfumes, were a perfect combination of sophistication and fun.
From Ballet to Beyond
I simply cannot leave you without mentioning the glorious tutu explosion in fashion these days. From catwalks to Instagram feeds, the tutu has broken free from the confines of the stage. We are living in a golden age for tutus, and that, darling, fills my heart with glee.
Tutu Tuesday Ritual
Don’t forget, every Tuesday is a special day dedicated to the wondrous world of tutus! Take some time to admire them, to marvel at their beauty, and to embrace the joy of expressing yourself with a twirl or two. You'll be amazed at how even a simple pink tutu can transform your day.
Until next week, my dears, keep on twirling and let the beauty of tutus fill your lives!
Much love, Emma xx
P.S. Follow me on pink-tutu.com and tag me in your tutu photos! #TutuTuesday #PinkTutuLovers #EmmaLovesTutus
