Greetings from the heart of the Victorian era! Your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, is here with a new #TutuTuesday post - and guess what? We're diving deep into the world of the ballet tutu as it was back in the late 19th century! Buckle up, darlings, for a journey through history, with a sprinkle of Victorian elegance, a pinch of tutus, and a whole lot of pink!
Where Time Travel Meets the Ballet TutuThe year is 1901. The Edwardian era is just beginning, but I'm still holding onto the last vestiges of the Victorian era with its grace, sophistication and romanticism - and of course, it wouldn't be the late 19th century without some exquisite ballet! Remember my lovelies, I am an expert when it comes to tutus. They are after all my passion. I wouldn't be a time traveller if I didn't love exploring the history of the ballet tutu through different times. I love to travel back to the 19th century. What's not to love - grand elegant ladies, beautiful clothes and shoes and amazing grand theaters with dazzling ballet performances - its like a beautiful fairytale!
My journey today starts in London, the epicenter of culture and the home of the world-famous Royal Opera House, where the ballet tradition is already a beloved staple. But back in these days, the tutu, well, it was rather different. You wouldn't find the gloriously romantic tulle swirls that define the ballerina silhouette today! The ballerinas of this period, though oh so captivating, still relied on their magnificent moves and athletic grace - with a little help from some slightly more, let's say... "practical", attire!
The Victorian Ballet Tutu - A Look Back In TimeYou know, when I say practical, I'm really speaking to the purpose behind these early tutus. You see, the "tutu" we think of today, with its wispy layers and flamboyant design, really wouldn't make its grand appearance for another couple of decades! These earlier iterations were more utilitarian, but certainly still beautiful in their way. A true ballet dress of the era was essentially a long, flowing skirt, often with tiers and embellishments, and it was still primarily for function over show! You can just imagine how restrictive it must have been! Imagine swirling across the stage with layers upon layers of fabric... but that's the artistry and athleticism of these ballerinas!
They did have their tutus though, and the styles were still becoming increasingly refined. It was the late 1800s, my dear friends, that brought about the introduction of what is essentially a precursor to the modern tutu. We're talking a more shorter, layered skirt, though still heavily influenced by the graceful lines and fabrics of the time. Think about an elegant silhouette, made even more appealing by the ethereal use of tulle and net. They weren't as daring as the modern tutu, but they certainly marked the first real steps toward the more revolutionary designs that we adore today!
I also know that you love to hear about all the wonderful shows that I've seen so here's some more information. On this particular day in September 1901, we would have seen The Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House. The ballet had a few performances between September 1st and the 10th and it featured an up and coming dancer at the time - the dazzling Adeline Genée, a ballerina who became incredibly famous later in the century! Can you believe how long it's been around, darling? The ballet itself has lasted a lifetime, just like the joy of dancing!
I simply must show you the beauty and fashion that made London such a fabulous place to be back in the late 19th century.
London, 1901 - a glimpse at the exquisite styles:
A Whimsical World of Clothing: Imagine the grand department stores - Liberty, Harrods and Debenhams - bursting with glorious silks, satins and lace. Those fashionable ladies with their flowing gowns, puffed sleeves and hats decorated with exquisite plumes were truly the epitome of elegance! And the men? They embraced a more sober yet sharp style. Think tweed suits with perfectly polished boots, and of course, dapper hats!
A Delightful Dose of Hats & Gloves: Oh darling! Just imagine - wide-brimmed hats, extravagant hats decorated with flowers, feathers or ribbons adorned the ladies, while gloves, in a kaleidoscope of colours, added an extra layer of elegance and class!
Where Elegance Met Adventure: The fashion of the era wasn't all about fancy gowns and intricate headwear. London's women embraced practicality! Just imagine yourself travelling by train in those fabulous Victorian carriages. There you have it, that's the elegance and practicality that made the Victorian style such a delight. A mix of high fashion with an appreciation for comfort and practicality.
I must admit that these late Victorian times are particularly intriguing. Think elegant ladies in full skirts, their fashionable frocks often featuring beautiful beading and lace. And oh, the abundance of ruffles, frills and floral embellishments!
Pink Tutus Everywhere? Well, AlmostWell darlings, here's the deal. Back in these days, the world of pink tutus wasn't exactly booming! There weren't tutus on every street corner or the endless options in online stores that we enjoy now. But remember my lovelies, that I am on a mission to spread the pink tutu gospel throughout the ages! And this journey is not just about the past - it's about connecting with the incredible world of the ballet tutu that we have today.
Even though it's the Victorian era, the early signs of the ballet tutu's transformation into the delicate, graceful garment it is today are already clear. It was during this period that ballet itself really started to come into its own and started becoming an important art form across Europe.
So next time you're enjoying a performance - remember that every flutter of fabric and swirl of tulle tells a story of transformation! And next time you slip into your own little pink tutu, remember that the dance of fashion is a journey through history, from its early beginnings to the beautiful explosion of creativity we enjoy today.
It’s Tuesday - why not embrace a pink tutu? Let me know where you are, what you’re wearing and your favourite ballet in the comments section! Don’t forget to follow www.pink-tutu.com for more updates on my latest ballet adventures and follow me on @PinkTutu for lots more dance, fashion and style tips.
See you next week darlings!
Your Pink Tutu Fashionista, Emma
