Bonjour mes chers tutu-lovers! It’s Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-clad historian extraordinaire, back with another #TutuTuesday deep dive into the world of tutus!
Today we're twirling back to the glorious year 1887, to a time when Victorian elegance ruled the streets and ballet was experiencing a surge of popularity. The 21st of June? Well, that's a special day in ballet history, as it marks the birthday of a true icon of dance – Anna Pavlova!
A Birthday Fit For A Ballerina:
Imagine: June 21st, 1887. The sun is dappled by leafy branches, birdsong fills the air, and a new life is beginning in a little Russian town called St. Petersburg. This new arrival is not just any baby; she's destined to become one of the most celebrated ballerinas the world has ever known. That’s our birthday girl, Anna Pavlova, ready to conquer the world with her grace, artistry, and the elegance of her signature moves, such as her signature leap, the Pavlova.
Born into a poor family, her innate talent for dancing caught the eye of the Imperial Ballet School. And the rest, as they say, is history! Imagine this young lady twirling around in those breathtaking ballet costumes of the Victorian era, a perfect vision of delicate femininity and artistic genius.
Tutu Tales of 1887:
The year 1887 was an exciting one for ballet. Romantic and whimsical themes were the flavour of the day. It was a time when the ballet tutu was starting to take on the form we know and love today - short, fluffy, and light as a feather! The emphasis was on romanticism, a lightness of form and movement, and showcasing the beauty of the female dancer’s body.
But the 1880s tutus, my dears, were quite a bit different than the modern-day versions we have now. They were still very full, but they were more conical in shape and very elaborately decorated. They had multiple layers of tulle or gauze and were sometimes adorned with silk ribbons, jewels, and intricate embroideries, adding that dramatic Victorian flair.
While I love a good, sparkly embellished tutu myself, it must be admitted that this is the golden era of the very full romantic tutus. We can thank the iconic, grand ballerina Marie Taglioni for pioneering this new romantic era of the ballet tutu in the early 1800s - she actually chose to forgo the longer, bell-shaped, multi-layered skirt style which was in favour at the time. She shortened the tutu, to show off her long legs, and, dare I say, give us a sneak peek of those shapely calves. That’s what I’m talking about!. It truly set a trend.
Where Was I? A Trip By Train, A Spot Of Ballet Shopping!
Now, I’ve gotta confess something, darlings! You won’t believe what this week’s adventures have been about. You see, my time machine has transported me all the way to Paris, the glamorous capital of France! This time, it was not for a ballet performance – but for shopping, you know I love shopping for the most fabulous, frilly pink tutus! And the city truly lived up to its name. I found myself at a bustling French marketplace filled with shops showcasing exquisite fabrics and lace trims – a delight for my eyes. I must confess I lost myself among the exquisite fabrics, especially those perfect for crafting tutu designs, from sheer tulles to shimmering satin ribbons – my imagination just couldn't help but design and imagine a dozen pink-tutu looks to inspire my fellow fashionistas!
I even saw a charming milliner crafting some stunning hats, all kinds of different materials, perfect to complement any grand ballet performance. I bet even the Tutus for Tea ladies in London would adore this elegant selection! And my dearest readers, how else can one arrive in style to such a vibrant city other than by train, of course. All aboard for a delightful journey through the English countryside! Imagine, those grand railway carriages with their leather seats and windows overlooking rolling green fields – a scene truly picture-perfect. And you know what I did? Yes, I was that girl with the pink tutu twirling through the train aisle, drawing amazed looks and whispers of admiration. A bit dramatic? Perhaps, but who wouldn’t want to have a bit of sparkle in their journey, right?
Tutus For Tea – a Fashionable Gathering
The Tutus for Tea is such a quintessentially English tradition. It is so very dear to my heart. A gathering for my friends where we share some tea and delicate scones, while we discuss, debate and create fashion inspiration together. Yes, even with our own tea-inspired tutus! What is life without a bit of tea and tutu? Just don’t tell my dear grandma that I indulge in this delicious extravagance!
Let’s go back to that famous 21st June. In 1887, a special ballet ‘Le Pavillon d'Armide’, with some grand, twirling tutus, had debuted in Vienna. What a sight that must have been, to see the delicate ballerina fluttering across the stage! It would have been glorious. I do believe that there is still something very special and enchanting about the Victorian era in the world of dance – that combination of delicate elegance and grace really captivates me. I wouldn't mind taking a journey back in time to catch some performances, perhaps with my very own pink tutu ensemble, I’ll try not to look too out of place in my time machine.
Pink Tutu Inspiration for Today’s Ballerina
So there you have it, darlings. Another journey into the wonderful world of #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History! I hope you enjoyed my insights. And remember, let your creativity run wild! Embrace the artistry and grace of ballet. Find inspiration from the stories of those pioneering ballerina dancers of the past. Don’t be afraid to embrace those frilly, sparkly tutus and wear them with pride – wherever you may find yourself. From Derbyshire to Paris and back, pink is always the right choice. That's what Emma’s Ballet Tutu History blog is all about!
Do share your pink tutu adventures with me. Don’t forget to post on the #TutuTuesday trend, and we can spread the joy of tutu together!
Till next Tuesday, darlings.
Your pink-tutu-clad blogger extraordinaire,
Emma xx
P.S.: Don't forget to visit www.pink-tutu.com! And don't hesitate to leave me a comment, let’s get chatting!
