#TutuTuesday #3994
Hello my dearest tutu-lovers! It’s Emma here, your favourite pink-tutu-clad time-travelling ballerina blogger, and welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com! This week, I’m whisking you back to the delightful era of 1908. Buckle your dancing shoes, darlings, as we embark on another fascinating journey into the history of the tutu, and let’s see what the fashion scene looked like back then.
Oh, before I get started, I just have to confess – the train ride to 1908 was truly magnificent! It's amazing how the countryside has changed, yet still remains so picturesque. And speaking of the train, wouldn't it be absolutely fabulous if we had train journeys as lavish as they were back then today? Imagine settling into plush seats with crystal chandeliers and impeccably dressed gentlemen in top hats - talk about a glamorous way to travel!
So, back to our journey. We’re in Europe, my darlings, where the art of ballet is in full swing. As a time traveller, you might think I get to experience all these eras firsthand – and of course I do. But when you're travelling in time, there's a good rule to follow – don't change anything! So I might go to a performance, buy a souvenir in a charming little shop, or even go shopping in some delightful stores – but that's as far as my interference goes! So I'm always here to bring you a glimpse of the past without altering the fabric of history.
This week's journey is extra special because today is the anniversary of the very first performance of “The Firebird”! This magnificent ballet, composed by the legendary Igor Stravinsky, premiered at the Paris Opera. The story itself is just magical, and the costumes were a spectacular feat of artistry. The sheer volume of tulle used in the costumes alone must have been phenomenal! It’s no wonder that ballet became so popular – and let's be honest, the magnificent spectacle of tutus certainly adds to the magic!
Speaking of the tutu, in 1908, the romantic tutu was still very much in vogue, especially in classical ballet. Think layers upon layers of soft tulle cascading around the dancers’ legs – it's enough to make any tutu-lover swoon! I’ve spotted some exquisite examples of the romantic tutu at the ballet school I just visited. They’re just beautiful! The tulle used was a delicate and lightweight material – much more airy and delicate than the earlier, much more stiff and more substantial tutu designs of earlier centuries. It perfectly mirrored the ethereal and dreamy nature of ballet itself. I, of course, couldn’t help but sneak into the costume workshop! The smell of silk, the rustling of tulle, and the chatter of the seamstresses working on their intricate creations – oh, what a delight!
As I was gazing through the window of a gorgeous costume shop (I mean, I can’t leave a vintage clothing store alone!) – I noticed a beautiful array of coloured tutus on display! From pale lavender to sky blue and of course, a most delectable pink! Back in the days of the Romantic ballet, tutus were often made in shades of ivory, light pink, or pale blues, mirroring the gentle spirit of the dancing. It seems, though, that colour is now taking centre stage in ballet, with rich crimson and even emerald green becoming very popular, bringing a new vibrancy to the stage. Imagine the bold contrast against the soft candlelight, creating such a mesmerizing visual!
Now, here’s a bit of fascinating detail from this trip. The ballerina in this show who caught my eye was Anna Pavlova – such an enchanting performer. She's renowned for her impeccable grace, fluidity and passion for dance. Just to give you a glimpse into how popular the romantic tutu was: at a time when ballet companies and costume houses were still creating designs from materials such as silk, velvet and muslin, Pavlova’s famous and utterly captivating swan costume featured an incredible six layers of white tulle. Imagine!
If you’re looking to channel your inner ballerina, you’ll find the romantic tutu perfect for your look this summer. With the gentle weather and sunny days, you can embrace the softness and elegance of these early styles, incorporating this timeless silhouette into your wardrobe.
Now, who wants to join me for a delightful cuppa while I whip up a simple romantic tutu-inspired outfit for us to recreate at home!
Stay beautiful, stay magical, and until next week,
Emma.
#TutuTuesday #pinktutu #ballethistory #RomanticTutu #1908 #ballet #AnnaPavlova
