Hello my lovelies! It’s Emma here, your tutu-loving time-traveler, back from another trip through the annals of dance history! Today, we’re taking a little trip to 9th December 1902, a day that saw not only the grand opening of a glorious new theatre in London, but also some incredible developments in the world of the tutu!
Imagine if you will, a time before the advent of that perfectly-prickled tulle we know and love! In the early 1900s, a tutu was still evolving, moving away from the more traditional romantic tutus we saw during the 1800s. You know the ones - the voluminous, sweeping layers, just asking to be twirled!
Now, of course, even then, our ballerinas were fashion icons! They were graceful, elegant and their tutus were often considered the epitome of feminine beauty! But as I stepped into the dance studios of the 1900s, I could see a subtle change happening. A change that led us toward the breathtaking tutus we wear today.
What made this period so fascinating? The movement of ballet was evolving! This time was marked by a burgeoning of athleticism, a new energy in the dance. The steps were becoming faster, lighter, and the emphasis shifted towards technique and speed. This newfound agility had to be reflected in the costumes too!
What did this mean for the humble tutu? The designs became increasingly streamlined! Layers were reduced, fabric choices leaned toward a lighter weight and, importantly, the fit became closer to the body, hugging the dancer’s form in all its graceful glory! You could tell how dedicated those ballerinas were by their passion and the stunning movements they were able to execute even in this relatively simpler tutu design.
To illustrate what I mean, imagine Anna Pavlova (such a style icon!) twirling in a more form-fitting tutu. No longer trapped in billowing layers, she moved with freedom and artistry, embodying that beautiful energy that ballet can carry. That shift from romanticism towards athleticism influenced tutus, creating the foundation for the incredible contemporary designs we see now! I couldn’t resist snapping up a new tulle from one of London’s lovely fabric stores - a light, soft material perfect for crafting a 1902-style tutu.
London's Theatre Magic!
Of course, while we’re discussing tutus, we must indulge in some delightful theatre news! It's a big day for theatre-lovers everywhere as His Majesty's Theatre in London had its official opening! This spectacular venue would be the birthplace of so many incredible ballet and musical theatre productions over the coming years. I simply had to see this fabulous new space for myself!
My time-travelling methods always lead me to exciting new venues! You see, a dear friend of mine, the one who’s teaching me the ways of the time machine, is a bit of a travelling performer herself. She’s got a lovely soprano voice and often finds herself performing with various troupes. Her performances always help with my time-travel funding! I tell you, ballet shoes aren’t the cheapest of accessories! But back to London’s theatre - oh it’s so beautiful!
You’d never guess it, but right now, the grand opening is a complete spectacle! There are stunning decorations, champagne flowing freely (yes, please!) and all sorts of dignitaries dressed in their finest attire. And of course, who are the true stars of the evening? Why, our beautiful ballerinas! Dressed in their gorgeous tutus, their graceful moves captured everyone’s hearts!
My tutu is positively bursting with excitement over all this theatricality! A new theatre in London… a world of opportunity and performance right here in the capital! I have such an itch to explore, discover all the backstage secrets, chat with the choreographers, and dance amongst these elegant, graceful ladies of the stage. They are my role models! I will never give up my dream of seeing my own performance at such a beautiful theatre as His Majesty's!
Finding The Right Tutu!
A lot has changed since the time of these early, romantic tutus. From the shorter lengths to the beautiful use of material and layers, every step is a leap closer to the iconic tutus we wear now. Don’t get me wrong, I am a huge fan of classic designs and even try to weave those influences into my own tutu creation, like when I created my newest pink tutu for today’s #TutuTuesday blog post!
But honestly, the beautiful styles of 1902 make me so grateful for what the future held! My own little pink tutu creation this week draws inspiration from this simpler design. But it's still my own design. It's full of personality!
Let me tell you all, every ballerina knows, there’s no such thing as too many tutus, and every girl needs the right tutu for every occasion. For dancing in a Parisian café, there’s the whimsical shorter, tulle tutu with a hint of romantic lace. Then, for an evening at the ballet, the full, graceful skirt makes an entrance to remember. And for a graceful stroll through the park, there's a tutu that has more frills and embellishment, which will create a stylish touch!
I'll leave you all with my favourite tip. If you find yourself shopping for your dream tutu, think of the dancer you wish to embody! Let the tutus you choose be an expression of yourself and what makes you happy! Because a tutu isn’t just a costume. It’s a magical piece of clothing. A statement! A touch of flair, a burst of personality, a dream woven in tulle.
Do remember to catch me here every #TutuTuesday for all my dance musings! And if you fancy, pop on over to my website - www.pink-tutu.com for more adventures! Stay fabulous and happy twirling!
Emma, your pink tutu-loving blogger, signing off!
