Hello lovelies, and welcome to another #TutuTuesday adventure! This week I've been waltzing back through time to a pivotal point in the tutu’s glorious story - December 24th, 1889.
As my train (it’s oh so much quicker to travel by train through the centuries than flying!) pulled into the bustling streets of Paris, I couldn’t help but feel a tingle of excitement! Why? Because today marks a very special occasion – the very day we can see the incredible transformation of ballet!
I popped on my most sparkly pink tutu – naturally – a vision of tulle that would surely put a smile on the face of even the most jaded Parisian gentleman. I had a feeling the elegant folk of the day were about to be charmed, not just by the performance, but by the graceful sway of the tutu itself.
You see, back in 1889, ballet was evolving rapidly. Gone were the stiff, cumbersome, heavy, floor-length skirts that resembled something a lady might wear to an evening tea party.
Instead, they were wearing, yes, you guessed it: The tutu!
And what a beautiful sight it is! It was no longer just a long white frilly skirt – it was becoming a statement! I’m talking billowing layers, sparkly decorations, all carefully crafted to accentuate the beauty of the ballerina’s every move. The short skirt design allows for much greater freedom, more fluid, natural movements and an array of spins and leaps, much to the delight of the audience. The storytellers were finally allowed to unleash their choreographic talent without being restricted by bulky clothing.
I had to find a grand performance, naturally. My research led me to the Paris Opéra, and who should grace the stage but the magnificent Marie Taglioni. Imagine: dancing royalty, in a dazzling tutu. Talk about a royal pairing! You can only find that magic in the realm of dance.
Now, don’t get me wrong, ladies. I’m not saying that everyone was wearing a tutu in 1889. I'm simply stating that the year 1889 marked a turning point for the tutu in the world of ballet. It was on its way to becoming the icon it is today. It was all the rage! Think of this date as the point where a whole new era of elegant, playful, movement was ushered in!
So why am I so smitten with the tutu? It's not just because it’s the pinnacle of grace and beauty, it’s because it represents a turning point in how we view female artistry and movement. The tutu is a symbol of strength, fluidity, and feminine beauty. It is about breaking boundaries, challenging perceptions, and empowering women through the magic of dance.
It's funny to think, I imagine I’d be quite the oddity here. Even though there are beautiful designs coming to life here on December 24th, 1889, I’d probably be the only one wearing a bright, bright, hot pink one.
I even made sure I snagged a souvenir. It’s just a beautiful, white, tulle ballerina, a piece of the history of ballet in 1889.
I do love a whimsical little piece of the past and even if some people would look at me like I'd stepped out of a madhatter's tea party. That's the magic of time travel, isn’t it? It allows us to step into the heart of a bygone era and connect with the artists who shaped it. It’s about getting up, making our mark on the world and enjoying every magical, dazzling minute! It's no wonder it’s my favourite.
But let’s be honest, we need more pink. More bright colours in the world of ballet. If you want a pink tutu or a purple one for that matter. Just tell the world what you want, my darlings, and we'll make it happen!
Until next time, keep your twirls high and remember, the best tutu is always the one you feel the most fabulous wearing!
Don’t forget to come join us at www.pink-tutu.com every Tuesday for more tutu-rific adventures through the world of ballet! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts about my adventures on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook! Use #TutuTuesday to let me know what you're thinking.
Emma x
PS. Remember to use #TutuTuesday to tell me all your thoughts. I just love reading what you love about tutus. Remember, this is blog post number 3026 of my #TutuTuesday series.
Post-Script: You never know what amazing adventures you might discover when you embrace your unique style!
And if you’re ever in London, make sure to visit The Royal Opera House. There's some truly magical ballet happening there every week and it's worth a special trip! And if you see a ballerina in a hot pink tutu. That might just be me!
I would just love to see you at a ballet performance in your pink tutu, darlings. Let me know in the comments below!
