Hello my dearest Tutu Twirlers! 👋
Emma here, your friendly neighbourhood tutu-clad time traveller, bringing you another fabulous journey through the fascinating world of ballet tutus. Today, we're taking a trip back to March 10th, 1908 – buckle up, it's going to be a right corker!
Remember those thrilling time travel shenanigans from last week's post? Well, thanks to a rather splendid performance at the Paris Opera (did I tell you I saw Anna Pavlova dance? swoon!), I've managed to snag enough funds to hop back in my time-traveling train carriage for a trip back to Edwardian England.
Now, when you think of early 1900s fashion, you might picture the bustle and bonnets, right? Well, imagine that same exquisite craftsmanship and elegant styling, but with a whole heap of airy lightness! Think fine, silk tulles, delicate hand-stitching, and the most beautiful pastel hues – dreamy, don't you think? 🌸
A Step Back In Time
Walking the streets of London back then was an experience in itself! The city bustled with horsedrawn carriages and beautifully-dressed ladies. You might spot a stylish flapper in a short skirt or a woman dressed to the nines in a full-length gown, her hair carefully styled with a feather or ribbon. But what I loved was the graceful sway of those elegant ladies in their exquisite tutus – yes, tutus! Even then, a tutu was considered the height of fashion, not just for dancers, but for those who desired a touch of ethereal charm.
This period, ladies and gentlemen, was when tutus truly began to blossom. Think lavish ballets, beautifully crafted, multi-layered tulle skirts with elaborate embroidery, creating a stunning vision of elegance and romance.
But where exactly did we get our tutus from?
I was a little surprised, even a bit scandalized, to learn that those first-ever tutu designs came about through... well, a lack of material! 😅 Can you imagine that? Instead of using the copious quantities of fabric for full-length dresses, dancers, particularly the Paris Opéra Ballet, started incorporating less fabric to achieve more fluidity in their movement – voila, the very first tutus! Talk about necessity being the mother of invention!
It took some time, of course, for these shortened skirts to gain full acceptance. But thankfully, the sheer beauty and delicate elegance of these new tutus captivated audiences everywhere!
On This Day, 10th March, 1908
On this day in 1908, there were whispers of the latest Parisian designs in the ballet world – a new "tutu" was creating quite a stir in a performance of La Fille Mal Gardée at the Royal Opera House Covent Garden! Imagine a ballet brimming with a whole flurry of tulle skirts! How magical that must have been! I must try and snag a ticket for that show next time I'm around! 🩰
My Pink Tutu Finds
Talking about the Parisian Ballet... you wouldn't believe the amazing shops I've been popping in and out of! Imagine a bustling street full of ateliers brimming with lace, velvet, and silk! They've got such wonderful ideas for fabrics, beading and ribbons, enough to make your heart swoon. And, of course, let's not forget the exquisite colours! Oh, to think, those pink and blush tulle tutus would have looked stunning alongside all that fine lace! 💕
Sharing My Tutu Love
As for my mission? To spread the joy of the tutu far and wide, of course! 😉 I might just start with London – perhaps a quick demonstration on the streets, a touch of ballet street as it were? 😜 Let's see how they respond! You know, with a gentle nod to tradition, a tutu is certainly not just for dancers! Let's celebrate the elegant beauty of tutus, embrace that dash of pink in every day! 💖
I’d love to hear what you think, darlings. Any favorite tutu moments from this period? Perhaps some ideas for my ballet street routine? Tell me everything in the comments below, and let's keep spreading the tutu magic! ✨
*Don’t forget to check back in next Tuesday for more *TutuTuesday fun and fabulous history, from yours truly, Emma! 💖 **
