Hello darlings! Emma here, back for another dose of #TutuTuesday! Today, we're taking a trip back to the elegant era of 1896 and exploring how the tutu, oh darling the tutu, took centre stage in the world of dance. As usual, I'm ready in my lovely pink tutu - a must for this fashion forward #TutuTuesday, even if it’s a bit chilly for a peekaboo skirt here in London! The fog is hanging thick as ever, a wonderful London mystery, but this darling doesn’t care because I’m about to spill some historical tea about tutus! 🫖
Imagine if you will - a bustling London theatre, gaslights shimmering, anticipation humming in the air as the music swells... The stage curtain rises and a dancer, in a graceful flurry of fabric, steps onto the stage. The spotlight shines down, and a wave of gasps goes through the audience. This is no ordinary dancer, nor is this an ordinary skirt. This is tutu history in the making!
The year is 1896, and the dance world is about to embrace a new, more feminine aesthetic – one where the focus is less on tight corsets and heavy layers, and more on whimsy, light and a touch of flirtation.
Let's fast forward for a moment from 1896 - can you believe it, this post is number 3392 - you all just can’t get enough of the tutu! 😉 This weekend I’ve been in Derbyshire for the Christmas season and got caught up in the panto festivities. You wouldn’t believe the energy! You know how I love me a little dramatic acting - the energy and sheer exuberance is just delicious! But enough about my adventures - we have tutus to discuss, and back to 1896 we go!
So, what was happening in the ballet world at this time? Well, this year is significant for the Imperial Ballet. Think Russia darlings, not your typical London ballerina look - and this is crucial. We are looking at bold colours, lots of flowing fabric, a dash of extra, but more on that later...
Remember that dance wasn’t confined to the stage, either. We've seen the evolution of the tutu through history, but what were dancers like outside of the theatre, in their own homes? This was the year ballet classes really started to blossom. With dedicated studios popping up all over, young ladies like myself - if I were alive back then - were already dreaming of swirling tulle in grand ballrooms.
There are so many brilliant things about this era that would make our pink tutus go whirl! Just picture this – ladies like myself - I’m envisioning the perfect 20’s look, so feminine - dancing with long gloves, the* most beautiful lace scarves and the prettiest little boots. We’re talking pastel hues in silk and velvet – think the softest peaches and plums. Absolutely stunning. And the tutus, my dears! Those extravagant creations would have taken your breath away! Think ruffles, feathers and plenty of shimmering fabric - think the ballet world version of a fashionista’s dream. Just a little bit divine, darling! 💖
And just because the Victorian age loved a little embellishment - let’s not forget those exquisite headbands, with beautiful blooms in shades of ivory and coral and dainty bows and brooches everywhere. Just a sprinkle of sophistication to the divine tutu ensemble.
1896 - What a time to be alive, especially for the fashion conscious! 💅
I think what makes this period especially interesting for me is how we can still feel its echoes in our world today! When we talk about tutus and dance, it’s impossible to forget the beautiful elegance of these classic designs.
That’s all for me this Tuesday, my dear fashionistas. If you loved this glimpse into tutu history, I’ve got tons more stories coming in future weeks - so stay tuned for next #TutuTuesday! Remember darlings - wear that tutu with pride, be confident and never shy away from whimsy in your style.
Until next Tuesday, let the pink tulle flow, Emma x
