Hello my lovely tutu-lovers! Welcome back to another edition of #TutuTuesday, your weekly dose of all things tutu, fashion, and ballet!
Today, we’re taking a whimsical trip back in time, all the way to 28th April 1885. Now, I know what you're thinking - "Emma, 1885?! That's a bit far back for a tutu, isn't it?" Well, hold onto your tiaras, my dear friends, because you might be surprised by what I've uncovered!
As you know, my time machine runs on pure passion for dance and a whole lot of sparkly tulle, and it's been whisking me around the world and through history, finding the most extraordinary tutu tales to share with you. So grab your tea and biscuits (or perhaps a cup of Earl Grey, as they were all the rage back in 1885!), and let's get twirling back to the Victorian Era!
The Victorian Era: Romance and Grace
1885 was smack-dab in the middle of the Victorian era. A time known for its elegant refinement, it's a surprise how little the "ballet skirt" or "tutu" had actually developed yet. Think beautiful flowing silks, with layers and layers of soft tulle, but not quite the ultra-short, super-layered tutu we know and love today.
I landed in London for my journey, and the streets were absolutely alive! Think hansom cabs clattering, grand buildings, and an air of sophistication - it truly was the centre of the world back then. But even with this exciting buzz, the ballet world, unlike today, was mostly for the elite, more about showcasing skill and classical perfection. It wasn't the theatrical, storytelling ballet we know and love.
Victorian Tutus: The Beginning of Our Passion
Now, about those Victorian tutus... they were much longer than the short skirts we've come to love! They typically fell just above the knee, showing off elegant calf lines but still maintaining a proper Victorian sensibility.
The designs, however, were already making waves. Imagine swathes of layered tulle with elegant, floral patterns in pale hues of lavender, cream, or a gentle shade of rose. The sheerness and flow created the ultimate impression of delicate grace, with the intricate detail truly stunning. They also played with lace and embroidery, adding romantic touches to each creation.
If I could go back and dance on that London stage with these beautiful, longer tutus... just imagine! They would make every movement graceful and flowy, perfect for those romantic ballets they were so fond of in that time!
A Peek into Ballet's History
And as much as we enjoy the twirls and leaps of modern ballet, those Victorian ballerinas really were amazing! They danced on their pointe shoes with grace, strength, and unbelievable stamina, and those tutus just added to the spectacle, like an exquisite halo of tulle.
You see, my dear readers, the "ballet skirt" was developing during this time period, though I'm always thrilled by those vintage pieces, with their softer aesthetic! But that's part of what makes tutus so fascinating, don't you think? They've been through so many stages and trends, reflecting every period in history - but they've always represented movement, elegance, and freedom!
The Victorian Theatre: A Glimpse into the Past
Speaking of ballet history, I did manage to catch a performance at the Royal Opera House on this very date! Imagine: the velvet seats, the gaslight, the elegant ladies in their opulent gowns, the dapper men in their suits, all gathered to admire these incredibly talented dancers. And then the music, oh, the music! The romantic scores that filled the grand theatre really gave the dancers a stage for their emotions.
It was an incredible experience. It truly took me back in time!
A Reminder from Emma:
The Victorians valued grace and elegance above all else - but guess what? We do too! Even with modern trends in ballet, and all of the dazzling colours and lengths, those early designs still have a magic that I believe connects us to that very specific history of the tutu. So next time you're enjoying a ballet performance or looking for inspiration, remember these beginnings, remember how this magical garment has travelled through time, bringing the graceful art of ballet with it.
But what did you love most about 1885, my tutu friends?
I can't wait to hear your thoughts! So head over to the comments section and let me know! Was it the romantic designs? The elegance of the ballerinas? Or something else entirely? And don't forget to tag me on your latest #TutuTuesday outfit snaps! Let's all keep the love of ballet, fashion, and a little bit of magic alive!
See you all next Tuesday, with more incredible tutu tales!
Lots of pink-tutu love,
Emma xoxo
PS. Did you know that in 1885 the world was also buzzing about a major innovation? The Telephone! The world was connected in ways never thought possible, and that's how I found my way back in time... though I still rely on the good ol' fashioned postal service to get my pink tutu outfits delivered! (It's much more efficient than travelling through time for every little purchase!)
