Bonjour mes chéries! It's Emma here, your pink tutu-clad time traveller, and welcome to another exciting edition of #TutuTuesday! Today we're going to be doing a bit of a time hop, journeying back to November 13th, 1900, to see just how the magnificent world of tutus has evolved. You might be thinking, “Emma, darling, weren't tutus around before that?” Well, yes and no! While ballet was flourishing and evolving with breathtaking choreography, the "tutu" as we know it was just beginning to take shape.
Before 1900, dancers were more akin to billowing Grecian muses than the ethereal figures we see on stage today. Long, flowing skirts were the norm, making those leaps and fouettés a bit of a challenge. Imagine trying to spin with yards and yards of fabric swishing around you! Thankfully, someone somewhere decided it was time to cut those skirts short! Enter the tutu's ancestor: the "tutu romantique."
This beautiful creation, designed by none other than the legendary Marius Petipa (the master behind the magical Sleeping Beauty!), was much shorter, usually ending just above the knees. Made from multiple layers of tulle (oh, how I love tulle!), it allowed for the free flow of movement, creating an enchanting visual effect on stage. Imagine the excitement of a Parisian audience as they saw ballerinas glide with such newfound lightness and grace! It was quite the revolutionary moment for the world of dance.
But it wasn't just about practicality. The shorter tutu was an artistic triumph, shifting the focus to the dancer's lines and strength, rather than simply covering them up. And speaking of Parisian audiences, I've got to tell you - their fashion sense was truly out of this world! The excitement of the Belle Époque era spilled over into ballet, with ladies attending performances dressed in their finest, feathered hats and lavish dresses.
Now, as we approach the early 1900s, a new evolution was just around the corner. The tutus started getting shorter, tighter, and even more intricate! Enter the "tutu pancake". Imagine a layered cake of delicate tulle, shaped to accentuate the graceful curve of the dancer’s body. It's like a cloud sculpted to create a truly breathtaking visual. Think of all the incredible designs that became possible!
Today, as we see our incredible ballerinas perform, we can see how far the tutu has come. But it's important to remember that it started from somewhere, like this moment in history - 1900! I'm off to the archives, cheries, to research more exciting tutu moments - there's always a new tale to tell about the tutu's fascinating journey! Until next time, don't forget: wear pink and twirl with pride!
Emma's Extra: Did you know? November 13th, 1900, was a big day for opera, too! The great French tenor Jean de Reszke performed La Traviata in Berlin. Just imagine the luxurious atmosphere of the opera house and the amazing performances they witnessed.
Oh! and I found a delightful detail from November 13th, 1900 in a fashion magazine - it was considered a bit scandalous to wear a black hat with an evening gown! That's right, dear readers! There were rules and boundaries in fashion just like in any other aspect of life. But how thrilling it is to be able to express ourselves in ways unimaginable for those who came before us!
And speaking of thrills, this Friday I’m catching a performance at the Royal Opera House! The story line's a secret (a little bit of mystery is good, you know!), but I know it's going to be filled with gorgeous tutus, dazzling costumes and breathtaking dancing!
I'll keep you posted on my latest sartorial adventures, and be sure to check back in next week for another fantastic edition of #TutuTuesday! In the meantime, keep twirling and spread the love for pink!
**XOXO,
Emma**
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