Hello darlings! It’s Emma, your favourite pink-tutu-clad time traveller, and it’s #TutuTuesday once again! Today, we’re pirouette-ing back to the year 1887, a time when gas lamps illuminated the streets of Paris, and the air was filled with the music of Strauss waltzes. Oh, how I wish I could have waltzed beneath those gaslight chandeliers! But alas, it's back to my trusty time machine. Today, we're focusing on the true stars of the show - the Ballet Tutus!
Oh, the glamour! Imagine it, ladies: we're in the gilded era of the Parisian Opera House. The theatre's positively humming with the excitement of the first night performance. Everyone's abuzz with chatter - and a hint of a waltz melody. All the gentlemen are looking debonair in their top hats and tailcoats, while the ladies… well, let’s just say their frocks are flirting with the edge of the latest trends. But as I twirl through the bustling theatre, I can’t help but wonder, “What about the tutus, darlings?”
You see, the ballet tutu of this period is undergoing a rather dramatic transformation! Now, don't get me wrong, our dear ballet tutu is always captivating, a whirlwind of elegance and ethereal grace. But back in 1887, the ballet tutu is going through a delightful evolution of its own.
We're bidding a fond farewell to the voluminous Roman tutu, which was quite extravagant, a cloud of layered tulle that would rival the puffiest of meringue pies! Imagine, darlings, how much fabric we're talking about. Think of it like a full skirt for a Christmas tree. But the Romantic tutu wasn’t as flattering for those stunning arabesques and spectacular leaps. We need to see those elegant legs in action! The new style, known as the "classical" or "straight" tutu, is finally here to show us how we can move!
This delightful, shorter version, shaped with a pointed bodice and a flared skirt, is the perfect answer to our prayers, making it possible to showcase the dancers' lithe and delicate movements. Imagine a whisper of tulle, swirling around like the petals of a rose, allowing for intricate steps and a fluidly expressive style. I'd say that’s the most romantic style of all!
I, of course, couldn’t miss out on this occasion. This date just so happens to be the day Marie Taglioni, the most renowned ballerina of the time, performs as the mythical sylph in a ballet by the ballet maestro, Jean Coralli, titled La Sylphide. It is a magical story set in Scotland! I've always loved these dreamy stories. I particularly like it when they involve the supernatural or a story set in a historical setting.
The beauty of this era is that the emphasis is on the individual movement of the dancer, a chance to let their true grace shine. Oh, it's just enchanting! And you know, these early "classical" tutus are so chic. Think of a graceful flower opening in the sunlight, all delicacy and lightness! A vision of utter beauty, isn't it? And, darlings, let's not forget the colours! While white is the quintessential ballet tutu colour, it’s thrilling to see how many shades and tints the designers are embracing – light pinks, soft blues, and gentle creams, all so beautiful and feminine!
Just the other week I travelled back in time, and it was so lovely to watch how everything comes together in this period, in the ballet, of course! It's so charming how these ladies in their bonnets, long gloves, and beautifully structured dresses would sit down in the auditorium as the gaslight flickers and then - poof! Here comes our ballet superstar - and it's the tutu that catches everyone's eye. How stunning are these designs? And with each move, you feel transported! It's magic.
This #TutuTuesday, I want to encourage you to look at tutus in a new light, a way beyond just the costume - although those ruffles are incredible! It's a celebration of elegance and creativity! They reflect true fashion artistry, something that has always been dear to my heart!
Now, as always, my lovelies let's celebrate a little ballet history on this #TutuTuesday and make our own tutus the talk of the town. Why not visit your local ballet school or get yourself a beautiful pink tutu for the occasion? A tutu is something special - a reminder that everyone can be a princess if they embrace their inner sparkle. Until next Tuesday, darlings, remember, to always dance your heart out and never be afraid to twirl!
Now, time to whisk myself back to the future for some afternoon tea and a little ballet shoe shopping. Keep your eyes on www.pink-tutu.com for a chance to see which enchanting costume designers and ballerina will grace my next #TutuTuesday!
And remember, you can share your own ballet history insights, favourite tutus, and even your own Tutu Tuesday fashion inspiration in the comments below. We love hearing from you, and we love sharing your pink tutu passion! Until next Tuesday, darlings. And keep on twirling!
