Hello my darling tutu enthusiasts! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, Pink Tutu.com, where we explore the wondrous world of the tutu – that symbol of elegance, grace, and sheer, swirling joy!
This week's Tutu Tuesday takes us on a little time travel adventure, and as usual, I'm rocking my signature pink tutu, even though the fashion back in 1887 would give me some serious side-eye. Imagine a frilly, fluffy masterpiece in the most exquisite shade of pink - a colour as daring as a waltz on pointe!
A Journey Back to the Victorian Era
I'm stepping onto the train to the enchanting city of Paris - a destination I simply cannot resist! There's nothing like the buzz of Parisian streets, the energy, the sophistication! This week, my journey isn't just about seeing the sights, it's about digging into ballet history!
Let's travel back in time, ladies, and picture this: November 8th, 1887. The streets of Paris are a flurry of horse-drawn carriages, elegant ladies in sweeping gowns, and a sprinkle of the newest fashion: a small but noticeable number of men wearing tight-fitting trousers - "The Dandy" look! (Not my favourite, darling, far too tight for my liking. Thank goodness for the invention of stretch fabric.)
The Theatre de l'Opera is humming with anticipation. Tonight's performance is going to be quite a spectacle, with La Bayadère, the captivating Indian ballet, taking centre stage.
The history books will tell you La Bayadère is famous for the 'Kingdom of the Shades' scene. This section is considered groundbreaking for its use of diaphanous, ethereal costumes, where the tutus – far less puffy than what we see today - were made of layers of white gauze and a sprinkle of pale silver embellishments. The dancers themselves were graceful visions of light, dancing like apparitions against the backdrop of the most dramatic, moonlit set.
The impact on the audience? Imagine: a scene filled with ghostly, flowing movement under an ethereal moonlight glow. The very air seems to shimmer. The magic of dance becomes a visual, tactile experience. Can you picture it, dear readers? The beauty, the grace, the captivating story woven into a spectacular stage spectacle.
Tutudom and Fashion Through the Years
Now, for a little fashionable interlude! Let's talk tutus - the undisputed symbol of the ballerina. But how did they evolve from simple "dress" into the statement pieces we know and love today?
The history of tutus is almost as long as the history of ballet itself. But before they took their now-iconic shape, the early versions were practical rather than pretty. Imagine billowing layers of silk or muslin that resembled more of a long skirt. Not exactly a swirling delight, but it certainly allowed for freedom of movement.
Fast forward a little (quite a bit, actually) and voila, the shorter, frilly, whimsical tutu began to blossom in the 1800s! Why the sudden change? Because dance was embracing movement that needed more fluidity, grace, and airiness. Think "Whipped Cream" - frothy and delightful!
I'm pretty sure that any fashion-conscious woman in the 1880s wouldn't dare dream of the sheer elegance, the airy, floating lightness of the tulle that now characterizes the tutus you see on stage today!
The tutus worn today, those cloud-like wonders of intricate tulle and exquisite craftsmanship, are true expressions of the artistic movement, a symphony of design, dance, and pure artistry! It's no wonder a ballerina's costume is an iconic piece of sartorial beauty.
Tutu Inspiration: From the Stage to the Streets
One of the many wonderful things about the tutu is its adaptability – It doesn't belong solely on a stage. It is pure, delightful inspiration that inspires the wardrobes of many. And that, darlings, is a wonderful thing!
We all know the allure of a well-made tutu - It's not just for ballet! It's the key ingredient in a truly chic ensemble, a dose of playful flair, and that je ne sais quoi to bring any outfit to life.
I've seen tutus gracing everything from street style to red carpet fashion - a bold, brilliant expression of individual flair! There are so many wonderful places to find these beautiful designs - from small independent shops to global designers. If you haven’t already found a piece to call your own, do get yourself out there and have a look! You might be surprised by what you discover!
So, remember, darlings, this is more than a blog. It’s a movement! Embrace the beauty of the tutu - let your own unique style fly free! Spread the joy and let's see those tutus strutting down your local high street! Until next week, keep those tutus swirling!
See you in the world of tutudom,
Emma xx
