#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1894-07-17

Hello, my darlings! Emma here, your trusty Tutu Tuesday guide through the delightful world of ballet history. It’s a glorious Tuesday, and the sun is shining, just like the pink silk on my new tutu! As we travel through time, remember that here at Pink-Tutu.com, we aim to share our love of the graceful world of dance. Today we’re stepping into a charming Victorian Era - think frilly lace and tea parties! Our focus is a day that shines brighter than a ballet spotlight: July 17th, 1894!

Let’s get this Tuesday’s journey started - I do love travelling by train. This morning, as I stepped onto the platform, my darling pink tutu just sparkled with excitement! We're off to a very special place – London! Today, London is the centre of the ballet world, much like how Paris holds that role today.

Speaking of fashion, my loves, in this time, it’s all about flounces, frills, and grand gestures – not just in dance but in everyday attire, too. Think layers of delicate lace, ruched silks, and, of course, a multitude of petticoats! These gowns often boasted a billowing skirt, adding an ethereal air to everything. So, naturally, the tutu of this era, designed for the dance floor, reflects this same aesthetic! Imagine, darling, beautiful tulle and lace, with long, flowing layers – just begging for a spin!

And here we are! Now, my dear readers, I am simply giddy, because as we reach London, a magical spectacle unfolds – a performance of the greatest ballet of the time, “La Fille Mal Gardée.” (Do excuse my French! It’s what everyone's speaking!)

Picture this: The stage is bursting with vibrant colours, and the ballet's choreography – well, let's just say, it’s the talk of the town! This is, after all, a world where classical ballet is taking centre stage. Each dancer, my dears, is adorned with costumes designed for delicate grace and poise, adorned with breathtaking details and elaborate headdresses – perfect for adding that dramatic flair!

But "La Fille Mal Gardée", unlike some others of the time, is a romantic ballet that breaks from the traditional stories of gods and goddesses, instead telling the tale of a young woman striving for freedom. In its day, it was considered very progressive for its storytelling - it gave an opportunity for ballerinas to portray a lively and relatable, almost modern-day young woman who doesn’t fit the stereotypical mold. It shows just how expressive dance could be! It wasn't a story of mythical princesses and gods but a tale that touched on real-life, heartfelt, universal themes: a strong-willed woman trying to follow her heart and choosing a loving and simple life. I confess, it left me moved!

Did you know, dear readers, that back in 1894, ballet wasn’t just a form of entertainment? It was a reflection of societal attitudes and values! The costumes and choreography provided glimpses into the aspirations and complexities of the times.

Back in England, during these times, women were fighting for greater freedom and rights. This yearning for liberation could be seen within the themes explored in ballet, particularly in a ballet like "La Fille Mal Gardée" – a story of a young woman finding her voice, fighting for her own happiness. Now, isn’t that just inspiring!

As we conclude our journey back to my Derbyshire home, darling, London's exquisite fabrics and elaborate designs inspire my thoughts on how we can incorporate some Victorian fashion elements into our own style! Now, a modern tutu? Maybe not a precise match, but its history does provide a delicious backdrop.

Imagine a pink, tulle tutu with some gorgeous lace trimming. You could add delicate ruffles and satin bows – simply darling! We could bring a touch of Victorian flair into our daily fashion! This, my friends, is the beauty of the ballet world – the enduring elegance and expression it brings, forever intertwined with style.

Now, off to enjoy my tea and a delicious slice of Victoria sponge! I hope you're feeling inspired to find your own special way to add some Victorian flair to your style – perhaps with some delicate floral details or even a few lace ruffles, because fashion, my lovelies, is all about celebrating individual flair.

See you next Tuesday, darlings! Remember, there's always a little bit of magic to be found in the world of ballet and, of course, pink tutus!

Love,

Emma.

www.pink-tutu.com