Hello darling tutu lovers! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where we celebrate all things tutu! It’s me, Emma, your favourite pink tutu-wearing time traveller, back with another delve into the captivating history of our beloved dancewear! Today we're whisking ourselves back to the 13th August, 1895. It's a day filled with fashion and glamour, a day I'm sure you’ll be excited to know about! This is post number 3320, and as always, remember to catch up with all my other Tutu Tuesday posts over on www.pink-tutu.com!
I’m currently soaking up the sunshine and vibrant energy of Paris, darling! This city, oh, this city! Simply bursting with life! So many delightful Parisian boutiques are bursting at the seams with the latest fashions, all just waiting to adorn the most elegant women of our time.
Let's Talk Tutu History
In 1895, ballet was at the height of its popularity and tutu designs were beginning to change, darling! While the traditional ‘romantic’ tutu of the mid-19th century (those long, flowing, multi-layered skirts we all love!) was still prevalent, a new kind of tutu was emerging.
This was the ‘tutu à la grecque’. This design, favoured by the illustrious choreographer Marius Petipa, was all about sleekness and simplicity, my dears. It was characterized by its short length, reaching only to the knee, and often featured layers of tulle or net held by an elastic band. It emphasized a dancer's agility and strength. Picture, my lovelies, the famous The Sleeping Beauty premiere from 1890 – that’s a perfect example of the impact of the new style!
This change wasn’t just a whim, darling, there were real reasons! It's all about freedom of movement, you see! It was becoming crucial that ballerinas could express themselves through complex, daring steps and moves without the burden of layers of fabric. And the more athletic the movement, the more it showed the incredible strength and grace of the dancers!
More than Just Dancewear!
Beyond ballet, fashion darling! The graceful lines of the tutu were finding their way into the wider fashion scene. Just imagine – what a wonderfully dreamy and romantic ensemble would be – a luxurious velvet evening coat, or maybe a sumptuous satin blouse – with the flirty, yet elegant sweep of a knee-length tutu underneath! It’s an ensemble made for dancing through life's greatest moments!
The world was also abuzz with exciting news from far-off corners – think India, with the intricate details of saris, the colours! So wonderful for a fashion lover like me! Think vibrant silk in brilliant colours, flowing lines, the movement of the fabric … the allure was just as strong! It gave even the tutu, with its simple elegance, something extra special.
A Journey Back In Time
As always, my darling, the biggest thrill of this journey comes from the sights, the smells, the experiences! Taking a trip to the Opera Garnier – a veritable temple of beauty, darling – is always a treat! Its opulent grand design is truly breathtaking. And imagine, the thrill of seeing legendary artists such as the extraordinary Isadora Duncan take the stage!
What was on today’s calendar for this little pink tutu wearer? Why, an afternoon spent at L'Avenue de l'Opéra! I snagged the most fabulous little straw boater hat, with an enchanting ribbon of lace, oh, it's divine, and such a gorgeous blush pink that perfectly matches my latest tutu acquisition – a glorious, multi-layered, shimmering tulle design from the atelier of Worth! Worth, you say, darling? Absolutely one of the greatest couturiers in all of France, creating truly iconic pieces. He even designed for Queen Victoria! And me! Imagine!
Time Travel in Pink!
And what's a trip back in time without a little travel adventure? Just before hopping back to our present, I was swept away in the sheer glamour and excitement of taking a first-class carriage on the Orient Express, darling. It’s a journey unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Can you imagine a plush carriage, upholstered in rich velvets and luxurious leather? All lit by soft, golden lamps with plush chairs? I'm telling you, darling, it’s absolute luxury! It’s how I get around in the grand style. And besides, the journey is part of the adventure!
I can't wait to see what the future of tutu history holds! We'll explore more stunning creations, discuss legendary dancers, and learn how the tutu has evolved into the remarkable dancewear it is today!
Stay tuned, my lovelies, for more pink tutu adventures!
Lots of love,
Emma xx
