Welcome back, dear readers, to another edition of #TutuTuesday! I'm your time-travelling fashionista, Emma, bringing you the very best of ballet history from the comfort (and swirl!) of my pink tutu.
It's November 5th, 1901, and let me tell you, London is alive with excitement! The Grand Opening of the New Century Theatre, a magnificent new venue just off Regent Street, is all the talk of the town. This breathtaking beauty of a theatre, with its opulently decorated interior, promises a dazzling array of theatrical productions and, of course, breathtaking ballet performances. My heart flutters just thinking of it!
This is a time when the tutus we know and love are just beginning to emerge! Ballet has become more accessible, moving from the grandeur of the court to the stage, but it’s a time when the dance forms are still evolving. This very year, we've seen Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes sweeping across Europe, dazzling audiences with their innovative approach.
The Dawn of the Modern Tutu:
1901 finds us at the precipice of a tutu revolution! While tutus still generally come in a longer, more romantic silhouette with a tiered and draped form, we’re seeing hints of the lighter, shorter styles that will become iconic in the decades to come. Just imagine the freedom of movement and expression those shorter skirts must offer!
You’ll find these traditional tutus – still elegant, oh-so-romantic, and oh-so-swirling - in a vibrant array of colors. The more daring performers will dare to wear bold hues like ruby red, emerald green, and sapphire blue! My favorite, however, is a blush pink with delicate embroidered floral details - perfect for capturing a delicate, ethereal charm. It’s all about that graceful fluidity and delicate beauty!
A Look Back, to 1841
Our #TutuTuesday adventures always encourage us to go back and look at the grand dames of ballet history! We know the tutu, as we know it today, has evolved over centuries. In 1841, Marie Taglioni, a truly inspiring figure in the ballet world, made history with her famous white, tulle, 'Romantic' tutu! It was revolutionary for its time – light and flowing, allowing for unprecedented leaps and twirls! It gave birth to a new wave of tutus, evolving in style and detail while still respecting the essence of graceful lightness.
A Whimsical Shopping Spree
Oh, the sheer joy of shopping for ballet attire! This year, the shops on Bond Street are brimming with stunning gowns and delicate tutus. I’ve been indulging myself in silks, chiffons, and luxurious velvets. You can just imagine a tutu created from a pale pink silk! The dream, eh? I’ve been so delighted with my newest acquisition – a beautiful black satin ribbon adorned with shimmering sequins – I imagine this around my tutu for that little extra je ne sais quoi.
London, A City of Glamour and Theatre
My time in London always brings a thrill! Just walking around these bustling streets, taking in the sights, sounds, and the electrifying atmosphere is an absolute joy.
But there's nothing like watching a captivating ballet performance to truly set the mood! The sheer beauty and elegance of the dancers, the intoxicating melodies, and the exquisite choreography - it truly makes my heart sing!
Travelling Through Time in Style!
Travelling to 1901? Easy! It’s as simple as climbing aboard a sleek Victorian railway carriage. The excitement of a journey across time is part of the fun, but let me tell you, dressing for a day out is an event in itself! Imagine – a beautiful white lace bodice with a flowing ivory skirt! Adding a chic matching straw hat and my trusty velvet-lined satchel complete the look! It’s about making an elegant statement wherever I travel. And it's the perfect way to show off those dazzling silk-covered tutus for a time travel adventure. My trusty portable sewing machine is essential – nothing like a last-minute tweak for a new outfit in my hotel room.
Join Me on My Next Adventure
What an extraordinary journey through time! This date, 1901-11-05, stands out as a time of evolution and innovation for the world of ballet and a captivating peek into fashion and entertainment in 1901 London.
I hope you've enjoyed our peek into history, dear readers, remember to check in next week for another #TutuTuesday on www.pink-tutu.com. Until then, keep those pink tutus swirling and spread the joy of dance!
XOXO, Emma
