Bonjour, my lovelies! Emma here, back with another installment of my Ballet Tutu History blog! As always, I’m utterly delighted to be sharing this fascinating journey into the world of dancewear with you all. I’ve been toiling away on a particularly spectacular vintage collection recently, and you wouldn’t believe the hidden treasures I’ve unearthed!
Today we're going to whisk ourselves away to the City of Lights - Paris! Yes, that’s right, the epicentre of fashion and flair, and one of my most favourite places to visit on my time-hopping adventures. You’d be surprised by how much you can find out about the history of the tutu just by peering into the dressing rooms and backstages of theatres across the ages. And, naturally, my lovely pink tutu was an absolute hit with the Parisian ladies.
But where do we start with our history on this very date, June 29th, 1886?
Well, how about with a grand performance at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin? This incredible venue has hosted some of the biggest names in ballet history and on this very night, the world witnessed the première of the opera La Esmeralda with choreography by the wonderful Jules Perrot and music by César Cui! Imagine my delight when I found out that this ballet is still being performed today! My pink tutu and I enjoyed every moment, from the powerful moves of the principal dancers to the gorgeous costumes that would make even the most sophisticated of ballerinas swoon.
La Esmeralda is just one of many treasures hidden within this rich era of ballet. This was the time of legendary figures like Anna Pavlova, who revolutionised dance technique with her light, ethereal movements. This period was also bursting with beautiful ballet designs that embraced elegance and flow, so the focus was on the delicate structure of the dancer’s figure rather than fussy ornamentation. That is a good thing, if you ask me! My favourite aspect of the tutu then, and now, is the elegant, ethereal effect it gives dancers when they’re on stage.
But how was fashion evolving alongside dance back in 1886?
It was a time when Parisian fashion was a source of inspiration for the entire world, and the bustle was still very much in vogue. However, the trend was starting to change towards longer skirts, more flowing styles, and that quintessential "la Parisienne" chic. Even the shape of the ballerina's tutu started to take cues from the evolving trends in clothing - think of lighter, airier fabric with a less voluminous skirt.
Just imagine my delight when I managed to snag some exquisite antique lace at a charming shop tucked away in a quaint Parisian street! Such an extravagant treat to sew a little bit of Parisian chic into my own beloved pink tutu! It really does elevate my outfit. A few vintage trinkets that I purchased at a local flea market helped complete my Parisian look. It’s the little touches that make all the difference, you see!
The joy of time travelling allows me to explore all the most stunning and glamorous moments in ballet history and pick up beautiful little things to bring back to the present day! And, of course, nothing makes me happier than inspiring you all to explore your own inner ballerina. So don’t forget your tutus, my dears! Embrace that whimsical spirit, and remember that every single day is an opportunity to dance through life with grace, confidence and joy.
That’s all for this week! Remember to join me next Tuesday for another edition of my #TutuTuesday ballet history blog! And if you want to show off your own sartorial flair, feel free to share your pink tutu pics on my website and social media, using the hashtag #TutuLove. Until next time, au revoir and happy dancing!
Love always, Emma
