Bonjour mes amis! Emma here, your tutu-loving time traveller, back with another dose of ballet history from the archives of my magical pink tutu! Today, we’re venturing back to 14th April 1885. I’m positively bouncing with excitement – 1885 was a truly glorious year for tutus!
Paris, oh Paris!
As always, Paris was the centre of it all! It's practically impossible to talk about tutus without mentioning the Paris Opera Ballet, don't you think? And my dear, imagine this - they’re celebrating their 200th birthday this very year! The celebration must have been simply sensational, all those exquisite tutus and ballerinas whirling about... it gives me goosebumps just thinking about it!
But 1885 was all about the French romantics and what I'm about to tell you is really interesting! The romantic tutu wasn't just about the length of the skirt - it was a statement of freedom and expression.
Before this, tutus were a lot longer and hid the dancers' movements. The romantics, though, they wanted to express passion, poetry and nature! And they knew the shorter, airy tutu could help them do it. They made the tutu more delicate and feminine, and it really began to show the shape of their legs, revealing a more sensual line. Honestly, just seeing the pictures makes me want to twirl!
More than Just a Pretty Dress!
It's important to remember, a tutu wasn't just a pretty frock back in 1885, it was an instrument! Think about it – it had to be lightweight for incredible leaps and spins, structured for perfect movements and flowing to give that magical ethereal quality we all love!
And what about the fabric? Think delicate tulle, light silks and those glorious satin ribbons. It really was all about showcasing the ballerinas' beauty and athleticism - imagine the hours they spent practicing just to achieve that perfect look! I wouldn’t be able to resist buying every single one if I saw them in the shops today!
What else happened on this day in 1885?
Today, there were no big events in the world of dance - the 14th April of 1885 was more about enjoying the little things in life. But hey, for a ballet fanatic like myself, every day is an occasion to celebrate our favourite form of art! And what better way to do it than with a beautiful pink tutu?
Remember, dear friends, tutues aren’t just for professional dancers! You too can twirl and twirl to your heart's content. Don't be afraid to add some sparkle and joy to your life! And don’t forget, every Tuesday, you can join me here for a trip down ballet's dazzling timeline. Until next week, keep dancing and keep it pink!
Love,
Emma
P.S. What's your favourite era of tutu design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
