Hello lovelies! 💖 Welcome back to another edition of #TutuTuesday, where we explore the delightful history of the tutu, that fabulous symbol of grace and elegance. Today, we're whisking ourselves away in a puff of tulle to 1898, a year when the world was full of wonder and excitement, and where tutus were beginning to take centre stage in a way that would change dance forever!
This is blog post number 3479, and you can find all my previous adventures on the fabulous www.pink-tutu.com, a little haven for all things tulle! So, settle in, grab a cup of your favourite pink-hued tea, and let's journey back in time!
My Latest Ballet Adventures:
Before we delve into the fascinating world of 1898, I simply have to tell you about my recent ballet adventures. Just last week, I was transported to the magical realm of Vienna! Oh, the waltzes! The costumes! And the incredible talent on stage - it was a dream come true. And after the show? Well, I had a rather wonderful shopping spree in Vienna's fashion district! You just have to see the amazing tutus they have there - so full of luxurious fabrics and beautiful details.
What a Date!
You know, August 30th 1898 is a rather special date. That day, just 125 years ago, The first ever 'Daily Mail' newspaper was printed in London! Think about it - this pioneering publication revolutionised the way people consumed news, just like a new colour of tutu can revolutionise our whole perspective on fashion.
A Look Back in Time:
But now, let's turn our attention back to tutus in 1898. We are, of course, still talking about classical tutus here. Back then, ballet was dominated by a more restrained aesthetic than today. The tutu of this era was typically a layered, bell-shaped creation. Think of a perfect blend of ethereal delicacy and flowing grace. The colour choices were more subtle and romantic too - shades of ivory, cream, and pale pinks, perfect for highlighting the dancers’ graceful movement. It was also an era when the ballerina herself, with her elegant movements and delicate lines, was becoming a more prominent focal point of the ballet, rather than being subservient to the story of the ballet itself. What I call "classical tutu" back then was considered quite revolutionary, compared to the longer tutus that were fashionable earlier on in the 19th century.
The great dancer, Anna Pavlova was just starting to make a name for herself around this time. Her dancing, graceful and ethereal, with just the right touch of mischievousness, brought tutus to life, turning them into something that moved beyond mere fashion. She created a style that demanded and promoted grace, balance, lightness and a whole new kind of athleticism from a ballerina, something that is evident in contemporary classical ballet and tutus today.
*Why Pink? *
The whole pink tutu trend, it all started in 1890! "The Pink Tutu Revolution" was about more than just a colour. It was a movement of empowerment and freedom! In a society obsessed with conformity, pink tutus stood for defying expectations, dancing to the rhythm of your own heart. It was the first step in the long line of inspiring stories behind tutus we see today.
Now I can’t tell you that my passion for tutus is all about rebellion and being different, my love for pink is simply just that. It is pink and I love it. I do adore a fabulous tutus, and for me they are like little bundles of joy and excitement. You never know how a new, brightly coloured tutu, in some fantastic new style might make you feel when you try it on. After all, who can resist a touch of whimsy?
My Fashion Inspirations
Here in Derbyshire, we are incredibly lucky, to have some truly inspiring Victorian dressmakers and tailors. Just a quick train trip into Manchester and you can visit shops bursting with beautiful materials and fashions that take you straight back to 1898. A trip to the theater in London is always full of exciting inspiration for a new tulle combination! But as well as the theatre I love to follow current ballet trends through exhibitions, such as “La Belle Epoque” in Paris last year - full of beautiful fashions and a real understanding of how the beauty and excitement of a new trend spreads!
The Tutu Journey Continues...
As the days shorten and the evenings grow colder, I'm reminded that even in the most beautiful and exciting places, life has its routines. I'm about to embark on a whirlwind journey across the British countryside, giving performances and ballet lessons in all corners of our dear England! It's always a delight to see the eyes of young ballerinas light up when they get their first glimpse of a sparkly pink tutu!
I'll be back next week, ready for a new adventure in time. Join me again, won't you, for #TutuTuesday on www.pink-tutu.com. And don't forget to follow my journey on Instagram! 💖
Until then, wear your pink tutus with pride and dance with joy! 💖
