Hello lovelies, and welcome back to another #TutuTuesday journey through the captivating history of the ballet tutu!
As your friendly, time-traveling tutu enthusiast, I'm whisking you all back to a most glorious summer's day in 1893, the 1st of August, to be precise. Think sun-drenched afternoons in Paris, the scent of fresh bread and lavender wafting through cobbled streets, and the murmur of conversation in the elegant cafes, the sound of laughter mixed with the strains of a waltz playing somewhere nearby. I have to admit, my pink tutu feels quite at home in this picturesque setting, even if it does feel a little bit out of place on the Parisian streets, ha!
Speaking of places, today I'm writing to you from the heart of ballet, Paris. Today, this elegant city is hosting a most delightful occasion – the inauguration of the new Opéra Garnier, the architectural marvel that everyone is raving about. Think of it, a gigantic theatre boasting magnificent decorations and intricate architecture, dedicated solely to the arts! Such grand occasions call for a dazzling array of tutus, of course, and believe me, they are truly breathtaking!
This magnificent Opera House was first envisioned by Emperor Napoleon III, back in the 1860s. It was conceived as an embodiment of artistic grandeur, and it was no small task bringing the Emperor’s dream to life. However, after 15 long years and a staggering budget, here it stands today. Talk about a labour of love, this place is absolutely beautiful. The very walls seem to be breathing, the rich red and gold tones radiating with such artistry. Of course, what would a truly breathtaking Opera house be without an abundance of ballerinas gliding across its stage, wearing a dazzling variety of tutus?
We might think of tutus as a modern garment, but back in the 1890s, tutus were already well-established as an integral part of the ballet costume. From the graceful romantic tutus with their cascading layers to the more rigid and structured 'classic' tutus that allowed for greater range of movement, tutus back then were already evoking an ethereal grace, a delicate beauty, and a captivating femininity that still captivates audiences today.
Now, the world of ballet tutus has seen quite a lot of change in these last 130 years, hasn't it?
Back in 1893, it was all about the layered Romantic tutu –think ethereal, flowing chiffon with multiple layers of tulle to create a voluminous effect. I’m quite fond of the romantic style, its simplicity is so charming and allows the ballerina to move with so much grace and ease.
Remember the time I journeyed back to the days of Marie Taglioni, the Queen of Ballet? That's where the whole idea of the Romantic tutu emerged. Imagine billowing layers of soft, white tulle creating a cloud-like effect as Taglioni soared across the stage in 'La Sylphide'. Her light, floating steps made the Romantic tutu iconic and created a visual symbol for the spirit of Romanticism. Romantic tutus were like ethereal gowns – their purpose was to accentuate the lightness and freedom of movement, a vision of grace that could not be achieved in the heavy costumes of previous generations.
These romantic beauties were, quite frankly, magnificent, but by the latter part of the 19th Century, something had to change. They were proving quite difficult to dance in. After all, dancing with multiple layers of flowing tulle can be a bit like being trapped in a silken whirlwind. Enter the "Classic" tutu, a much more rigid and structured style, specifically designed to allow ballerinas greater movement and flexibility. In many ways it was a practical change, as the Romantic Tutu would restrict movement during complicated routines. Imagine the frustration of having layers of tulle tangled up mid-pirouette!
From 1893 onward, the ‘classic’ tutu started to emerge and take center stage, if you will. This new style of tutu, made with a short, single layer of tulle, is stiffer and gives greater range of motion and control to the dancer. I’m quite a fan of this style too, I have to admit – the graceful and dramatic shape and design of the Classic Tutu, combined with its focus on elegance and poise, still looks absolutely magical!
The 1893 tutus were quite fascinating! In terms of fabrics, you see lots of tulle of course, the preferred material for creating those elegant shapes, and for embellishments, think delicate satin ribbon, feathers, and sparkling beads for an extra bit of glamour! Just a smidge of sequins to add a touch of sheen would have added just that extra little touch of brilliance!
Speaking of brilliance, you just can’t mention the Parisian ballet without Marie Taglioni, a true legend. Can you believe it was almost 50 years ago that Marie Taglioni, the iconic figure of the Romantic era, gracefully retired from the ballet world? Yet her influence is still palpable. Her exquisite moves and graceful elegance have paved the way for ballet to reach its new levels of beauty and artistry, including the way it inspired generations of young dancers like me. She will never be forgotten in the world of ballet, her name forever woven into the story of the dance!
Of course, let’s not forget all the incredible ballets being performed in the beautiful Garnier Opera House at this moment. Such elegance, such emotion, the skill of these ballerinas and the incredible choreography, It's no wonder why ballet has taken Paris, and indeed, the world by storm!
Well, lovelies, as my train is pulling out of Gare de Lyon, it’s time for me to move on. However, I'm sure I’ll be returning to Paris to see what the world of tutus looks like at the next turning point! Who knows, there might be even more spectacular tutus, even more exquisite dance routines, and who knows, maybe even a new style of tutu just around the corner. You've heard it here first, loves – I’ll be keeping my eyes open.
Now, it wouldn't be a proper TutuTuesday without a tutu-rific suggestion. Why don't you try something new this week? Put on your favourite pink tutu, dance to some uplifting tunes, or if you are feeling particularly bold, learn a little pirouette? There's nothing that makes me feel more alive and carefree than twirling in a pink tutu. You might even find yourself dreaming about all those historical ballerinas! Go on, spread some joy and elegance wherever you go. And never forget, you're never too old or too young to embrace the magic of tutus!
Keep spreading the love, darling tutus, and keep an eye out for my next #TutuTuesday post on www.pink-tutu.com!
Love, Emma Xx
