Hello darlings! Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood pink tutu enthusiast, back with another installment of #TutuTuesday, your weekly dive into the glorious history of ballet and those oh-so-charming tutus! This week, we're waltzing back to the Victorian era, specifically 1st March 1898, to see what tutus were looking like and what captivating performances were gracing the stages! Don't forget, dear readers, to check out my new website www.pink-tutu.com and browse my fabulous pink tutu collection - there's something for everyone!
Now, let's whisk ourselves back to the year 1898. Imagine a London bustling with carriages, gentlemen in top hats, and ladies sporting intricate bonnets. That's the backdrop for the balletic world I'm about to paint for you today.
This period, my dears, saw ballet reaching a peak of classical grandeur, thanks to the genius of Marius Petipa and the dazzlingly talented dancers of the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg. Their artistry, grace, and elegance are what made tutu history!
And what about the tutus themselves? Well, picture a fluffy cloud of tulle, gathered tightly at the waist and swirling into a multitude of graceful tiers. Imagine it, my darlings, a cloud of soft, delicate, almost diaphanous fabric - perfect for capturing the airiness and movement of ballet. These Victorian tutus, unlike those today, tended to be slightly longer, sweeping the floor in a captivating wave of sheer fabric.
A word on color: the hues were more restrained than what we find on stage today. Creamy whites, delicate pastels, and gentle shades of blue, green, or rose reigned supreme. We're talking subtlety, elegance, and an ethereal touch, evoking an aura of fantasy and beauty. Think Victorian flower gardens, delicate butterflies, and romantic gardens at dusk. Now that's the vibe, right?!
But the story isn't all about the tutu itself, it's also about what it symbolizes. Imagine yourself walking into the opulent theatre of a Parisian or London ballet performance - the glitz, the anticipation! These early tutus weren't just costumes; they embodied a yearning for lightness and ethereal beauty, a representation of the dreams and aspirations of the time.
Speaking of captivating shows...on this date in 1898, my dears, the "Le Corsaire" ballet, set to the thrilling music of Cesare Pugni, took the stage! It's a truly captivating story filled with high seas adventure, daring pirates, and a heroine longing for true love! Think shimmering jewels, daring escapes, and the clash of swords! The Tutus, imagine this! - were probably in muted, earthy shades with hints of silver or gold - echoing the maritime setting and exquisite costume designs, a little nod to the era's romanticism and its penchant for the exotic. I can't wait to find my pink tutu for this one, I'm planning on travelling in time to see this next month. It's on my list for the #TutuTuesday ballet tour!
Did you know, darlings? The tutu's journey to becoming a symbol of pure grace and movement was anything but linear. It's a testament to evolving aesthetics and the changing role of the dancer. From the earlier “Robe de Bal” that more closely resembled a ballroom gown to the evolving form of today's classical, the ballet tutu has captured imagination and spurred fashion trends for centuries. I have a whole suitcase of vintage tutus to document, from various periods in history, so expect to see them featured in upcoming #TutuTuesday posts.
As always, I want to hear from you, darlings! What is your favourite period in tutu history? Which historical performance catches your imagination? I simply cannot wait to read your comments! And don’t forget to visit my website - www.pink-tutu.com. You might just find your new favourite pink tutu there!
Now, remember my loves, life is all about embracing your inner ballerina. And why not, in the grand spirit of these Victorian dancers, dance with passion, live with flair, and never, ever be afraid to embrace the magical world of ballet, even in your own pink tutu!
Until next Tuesday, keep those pirouettes spinning!
With much love and twirls,
Emma
xxx
