#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1889-05-14

Hello, darling tutu lovers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where tutus are always in fashion and the only thing we take seriously is having fun!

Today, I’m taking you on a time-traveling journey back to the glorious 14th of May, 1889. Grab a cuppa, get comfy, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of ballet history – a magical time of swirling tutus, charming music, and incredible dancers.

Before we journey through time, a big shout out to all you fab ladies who are wearing pink tutus today. I'm absolutely thrilled that you're joining me on my adventure into history! Your pink tutus are an absolute inspiration, and just go to show that a little touch of magic never goes out of style!

It's Tuesday, so you know what that means – it's #TutuTuesday and I'm here to spill the tea on the tutu evolution! Now, let's hop on the historical train and whisk ourselves back to 1889.

This particular year, fashion was all about big, dramatic silhouettes, with bustles making a big comeback and massive skirts swirling like a ballerina’s tutu. Everything was flowing, voluminous, and designed to create an air of elegance. Just think: picture Marie Antoinette’s style, but a tad more streamlined.

This makes it a fascinating era to consider tutu development.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched a historical ballet movie and thought, "That tutu looks suspiciously modern!" and you know what? It's quite likely.

Remember, it’s a constant evolution! There were always designers seeking a new way to showcase their artistry and make those ballerinas absolutely sparkle!

So, we arrive at our journey's stop. 1889… what's the story of our tutus?

At this point in history, the classical tutu, with its tiers of fabric, had already started its rise to fame. It was in the 1830s and 40s that dancers started ditching the restrictive and restrictive floor-length dresses for a lighter and more flowing style. That meant freedom to soar through the air!

Fast forward to our special date, May 14th, 1889, and the romantic era of ballet is well under way. Ballet’s biggest stars were already using these tiered tutus to accentuate their every move, turning them into an unforgettable piece of fashion history. It wasn't just about the skirt though. You had these magnificent bodices and sleeves that just added to the dramatic and ethereal feel of it all.

We were witnessing an era of ballet where beauty and movement truly became one!

1. Always accessorize! Ballet was more than just the dancing. It was a spectacle and a fashion statement. Those big, feather boas and dramatic jewelry played a massive role in showcasing a dancer's individuality and creativity. Today, I love to add bows and my own personal touches, but think bigger!
2. Tulle! Tulle! Tulle! Always remember the power of tulle. This is a material that screams fairytale, effortlessly gliding around the stage while maintaining a timeless elegance that makes everyone stop and stare! Get creative with the layering and let those frills and layers of tulle twirl with your every move.
3. Practice makes perfect! This one never changes! Remember, it’s all about how those twirls make you feel and how those tutus bring the magic out of every movement. Don't be afraid to practice, learn, and develop your personal dance style to perfectly capture the timeless spirit of this magical era!

Here are a couple of amazing names who made ballet history:

• La Belle Otero: Considered one of the most glamorous stars of her time, she embraced a stage-centric elegance and made her mark with her extravagant costumes. You could definitely call her a 'tutu enthusiast!' She really embodied the big-skirt style, emphasizing her graceful form with the help of opulent fashion. The perfect blend of feminine grace and a flair for dramatic style – I have to love that!
• The Russian Ballet: Around 1889, this influential group, later known as the Ballets Russes, were about to take the stage by storm. They would revolutionize ballet costumes, ushering in the period of beautiful, ornate tutus made even more popular by the stunning costumes designed by Leon Bakst! This era was pure visual beauty.

As the era moved into the 20th Century, those iconic tutus, especially in the style we know them today, began to take shape with designers working out how to create costumes for even more ambitious choreographies.

I really have to give the dancers of this time a round of applause. They were absolutely fearless!

So, that brings us to the end of this time-traveling escapade.

I can't wait to bring you more of those magical moments in #TutuTuesday's history – keep coming back, my lovelies.

Next week I will be telling you about something completely different! Until then, be bold and let your tutu be your shining inspiration. Let it remind you of the joy, freedom, and beautiful elegance that makes dance truly magical! I’d love to see your #TutuTuesday creations – share your pictures with me. You can reach me on my Instagram @emmapinktutu and feel free to leave your comments below!

Now, off to find some tea and more gorgeous tulle, darlings!

Love, Emma 💖