Hello my gorgeous little pink-loving tutus! It's Emma here, back again with another fabulous dive into the world of the most wonderful, fabulous, sparkly garment: the tutu! Today we're taking a train ride through time to 1902 and we're bringing a suitcase full of tulle and a hefty dose of girly magic, so let's grab our teacups and settle in!
It's Tuesday, so as you all know it's time to dive deep into the Ballet Tutu History vault and pull out some historical treasures. This week we're whisked away to Paris – the undisputed queen of the dance world in 1902 – with its elegant theaters and dazzling ballerinas.
This year, our French friends are swirling and leaping in a flurry of tutus, the culmination of decades of the most spectacular artistic dance development! They’ve brought us the Romantic era in ballet and with it, the evolution of the tutus. Now imagine it: these swirling skirts of tulle, the epitome of femininity and elegance, making those delicate ballerinas float like beautiful, dancing flowers across the stage. I’m giddy just thinking about it!
Now, don't imagine these tutus like the impossibly fluffy clouds of tulle we have today – oh, no, these beauties were a bit more… substantial. The “Romantic tutu”, the stars of our 1902 show, are very different to today’s ultra-short styles. We’re talking skirts with some seriously impressive layers, going well below the knee – even all the way to the ankles! It’s like a dreamy, fluffy princess dream in billowing layers, and they’re still the most elegant tutus around, don't you think?
You know I just adore seeing a ballerina grace the stage in one of these beauties – they are so ethereal and mesmerizing. And the way they twirl? Honestly, it’s enough to melt your heart and make you want to twirl your own little tutu, too! I can picture the ballerinas swirling like snowflakes in the winter sun - just beautiful!
Now, I know what you’re thinking - those full-length, cascading tulle skirts – weren't they just a little too heavy? Well, they certainly didn’t allow for high leaps and those mind-blowing leaps we have today, but they sure did make for some captivating twirls and fluid movements across the stage.
It’s the year 1902 – so the Ballet world is brimming with beautiful ballerinas wearing breathtaking costumes, and tutus of course, but what exactly else is going on? Well, as I was saying, we’re here in Paris – the city of lights! It’s brimming with culture and charm, just begging to be explored!
And this is the place, believe me, for discovering the newest in fashion and styles - from those adorable little bonnets, oh, so feminine, to sparkly hats adorned with flowers and feathers. Yes, we're talking major fashion inspiration! This year is overflowing with the trend for pastel colors - think delicate shades of lilac, blushing pink and delicate sky blue. Can you imagine all those shades against the lush dark green velvet of a theatre's plush seats – oh, my sweetie-pies, pure magical beauty!
Speaking of magical beauty, let’s hop back to the stage and catch a ballet show. What’s gracing the stage in 1902? It’s the age of beautiful romantic stories being spun on the stage through ballet. Just picture delicate flower fairies, passionate knights, and even a* touch of myth and magic.* It's no surprise that the audience are completely mesmerised!
Of course, after all those enchanting ballets, my lovelies, there is nothing better than a spot of shopping! Let’s be real – every trip to Paris deserves a little splurge on some amazing finds! Imagine yourself with your arms full of luxurious fabrics, maybe a beautiful silk scarf for those stylish Parisian strolls!
1902 in Paris? What more could you possibly wish for? It's all about elegance and sophistication, captivating stories told through breathtaking dance, fabulous fashions, and of course – beautiful ballet tutus. So put on your prettiest tutu and get ready for a time travelling adventure my sweet-peas! And if you want a quick Parisian shopping spree I'd suggest popping into a charming little shop called Galeries Lafayette – the Parisian shoppers will all know where I mean.
This is all for this Tutu Tuesday - until next time my lovelies, keep spreading that pink tutu magic and sparkle like diamonds!
P.S. Don’t forget to check back here next Tuesday for a new Ballet Tutu History post - you’ll want to be here for next week's journey – we’re off to St Petersburg! It’s sure to be dazzling.
And don't forget, if you see a pink tutu wearing girl, that's me, come say hello!
Emma.
