#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1897-08-03

Bonjour, mes amies! It’s Emma here, back from a whirlwind trip through time! This week, my vintage-loving heart landed me in 1897, and oh my goodness, you won’t believe the sartorial delights I encountered. I must say, 1897 was a real turning point for the tutu, and as you know, anything that elevates the status of the tutu is a good thing in my book!

Today we’re going to take a trip to Paris, that haven of elegance and style, where the world of ballet was buzzing with excitement. Remember, dear readers, in the late 19th century, the tutu was still in its early stages. Think long, voluminous layers of tulle – the epitome of delicate and feminine. We are just starting to see shorter lengths that showcase the dancer's leg lines, which was a major change for the time.

Imagine it – the streets of Paris are filled with the chatter of stylish Parisians in their finery, while at the opera house, dancers are gracefully executing a repertoire that would still feel modern to us today, all while wearing these glorious gowns of tulle!

I’m in the middle of a Pink-tastic discovery right now. I just learned about Marie Taglioni! You’ve probably heard of this iconic ballerina - she was the first to really show off those leg lines! She was all about grace and ethereal beauty. Now, I wouldn't dare say that there was a “pink tutu” specifically for Marie Taglioni as we know it today, but they were often made with blush tones and delicate pink shades that gave her an otherworldly air. You know, the ultimate combination of whimsy and refinement? This trend set the stage for all the amazing pink tutus we see today!

Oh, and while we’re on the subject of Paris, did you know that the Opera de Paris, otherwise known as the Académie Royale de Musique (yes, the names just roll off the tongue don’t they!), is still going strong and even considered one of the best ballet companies in the world? In 1897, ballet was absolutely thriving, a true celebration of movement and artistic excellence!

As you know, a well-dressed audience is just as important as a brilliant performance, so I had a little look at the Opera de Paris’ playbill from this very day – August 3rd, 1897 – to see what sort of fashionable folks were in attendance! A program of ‘The Corsair’ and ‘The Vision’ – two classics, and probably with some fabulous, colourful, pinkish costumes, I’d bet!

You know I can’t write a post without talking about fashion, especially when it comes to ballet! This is my mission! The tutus worn during this era are an inspiration. Their sheer romanticism, coupled with their ability to enhance movement, make them endlessly fascinating to me. There is a story behind every movement, every pose, every pleat! I can’t imagine life without tutus. They are the ultimate dancewear, offering freedom and flexibility to express emotions through every twirl!

To all my dear Tutu Tuesday followers, let's keep dancing into the future of tutus! I promise you, no matter how many centuries pass, the power of a perfectly twirling, pink tutu never fades!

Until next week, may your dance steps be filled with joy!

With twirling wishes, Emma x

* P.S. Don’t forget to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com for more updates on the ballet world and for exclusive tutorials on making the perfect tutu!
And remember – if you see someone sporting a pink tutu in 1897, it was me! 😉 *