Hello my darlings, and welcome back to my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History! Today, we’re waltzing our way back in time to August 15th, 1905. Now, I know what you're thinking - 1905? Tutues? Surely those delicate, airy things weren't a thing back then! Well, hold onto your tutus, my loves, because you’re about to be surprised!
It’s quite amazing to think about, really. We associate the tutu with the glorious ballet world today, right? But its journey has been as graceful as a fouetté turn. It was a gradual evolution, and that's why I'm here to share the fascinating history, one dazzling twirl at a time.
London, 1905 - The Heart of Ballet
So, I just stepped off the train in London – a city already pulsating with the exciting rhythm of the new century. The streets are buzzing with fashionistas like me, all eagerly keeping up with the latest trends. And yes, ballet is having a moment! Think of it, dear readers - this was the era of Anna Pavlova and Isadora Duncan. I mean, come on - how could the fashion world not be influenced by the graceful elegance of these dancing divas?
Tutues are in Bloom, but Not How We Know Them
But the tutus in 1905? They were quite different from the modern masterpieces we see today. Back then, the ‘tutu’ was just starting to become a recognised term in the world of ballet. It wasn’t yet the full, whimsical poodle skirt that we adore today. No, no. The tutus of this period were still relatively close to the long, romantic skirts favoured in the Romantic ballet of the 19th century. Think lots of layers, flowing fabric and just a hint of the lightness we associate with ballet. I was excited to see this for myself! I went straight to Covent Garden and watched the most exquisite ballet show, and although they were still wearing rather long, elaborate skirts, they had started adding in a touch of fullness and flounce around the waist and lower legs, almost like a soft bloom of fabric, preparing to burst into full tutu flower.
The Evolution of Style
Now, this was a particularly significant time for the ballerina, not just in terms of costume, but also performance. This was the era of 'fin de siècle' ballet, and dancers were breaking free from the strict Victorian era traditions, starting to embrace expression and freedom in their movement.
Of course, this also influenced costume! It’s all about pushing the boundaries, isn't it? By the end of the 1900s, the tutu would undergo another magnificent metamorphosis.
And Me in my Tutu - Shopping on Oxford Street
But for now, it's time for some fun. Today’s mission is to see if I can find any hint of the tutu bloom in fashion in the shops on Oxford Street. There’s an exciting buzz in the air and I’m looking for an exciting new purchase – my tutu needs an upgrade and the inspiration for that new pink creation could be found in any shop on Oxford Street!
Oh, my goodness! This vintage millinery shop on Oxford Street is full of fascinators that are bursting with feathers, tulle and bows! I just need to find a shade that is truly a ‘Pink-Tutu Pink’!
#TutuTuesday and Fashion in Harmony
I can tell you one thing – it is very important that you understand what kind of an influence fashion has always had on tutus and, naturally, what influence tutus have had on fashion. The world of fashion and ballet is full of inspiring collaboration.
So, dear readers, we’ve just started on a fascinating journey. Tune in next week when we’ll venture further back into history and learn the incredible story of the ballerina's dress! And as always, don't forget to keep sharing your own #TutuTuesday stories – you can use #PinkTutu to tag your post and let’s inspire the whole world to wear pink tutus!
And that’s a wrap for #TutuTuesday! Don’t forget, I’ll be here next Tuesday, with a brand new ballet tutu history post.
Stay stylish and twirl on, my lovelies!
Emma xx
www.pink-tutu.com
P.S. Don't forget, if you haven't already, follow me on Instagram for more twirling and tutuing fun!
