Hello my lovely tutu-loving readers! Welcome back to Pink Tutu, where we journey through the dazzling history of ballet and its iconic costumes, and, of course, sparkle and twirl our way into a world of pink tutus!
It’s Tuesday again, which means it’s time for another #TutuTuesday! This week, my time machine has whisked me back to 21st July, 1908. Now, if you can picture a London summer, imagine the scent of horse-drawn carriages and the exciting hum of the bustling city as I step onto the cobbled streets, my pink tulle swirling around my legs.
Oh, the thrill of a train journey through the English countryside to arrive in London's heart! Today I'm heading for the glorious Royal Opera House. I absolutely adore those magnificent gilded interiors. Just walking through those grand doors makes me feel like I've stepped into a fairytale!
But why 21st July, 1908? Well, on this day, something utterly spectacular occurred in the world of ballet - and it’s all about the tutu!
Now, if you’re picturing the fluffy, layered tutus we know and adore today, think again! We're talking about the beginning of a rather daring development in the tutu world – the emergence of the tutu-à-la-française.
Let's rewind a little bit. The tutu-à-la-française arrived at the same time as a radical change in ballet's very foundations. Classical ballet as we know it, was born. Think elegant lines, focused pointe work and precise movements, thanks to the brilliant French choreographer Marius Petipa, the darling of the Imperial Russian Ballet! He even helped to make the ballet a hugely popular spectacle in Europe.
Now, how does this revolutionise the tutu? Imagine a shorter tutu, clinging to the ballerina's body like a second skin. This wasn't just about fashion; it was all about freeing the dancer’s movement. They could leap, twirl and move with a grace and fluidity never seen before! This sleek, almost transparent tutu, allowed the ballerina’s lines to flow perfectly, becoming part of the dance itself!
I’m feeling pretty inspired just thinking about it! I’m already sketching some designs in my head – perhaps a lovely, soft blush-pink with a dash of sparkle! This new style allowed the ballerina's legs to stretch out effortlessly, highlighting every arabesque and graceful turn. What's more, the short, layered tutu brought the focus firmly on to the dancer's graceful physique – oh the beauty of those perfectly toned legs!
This evolution is the foundation of today’s tutu, a staple of ballet costumes! The tutu was now not only fashionable and elegant but also completely functional, perfectly complimenting the ballet's movements.
And, let's face it, it still makes us all feel like princesses! The sheer beauty of the ballerina's grace paired with that floating, exquisite tutu – pure magic!
Speaking of ballet, I am absolutely thrilled that on the same day in 1908, London saw the opening night of La Péri. The music is simply stunning, and, of course, I absolutely adored the tutus – they were just simply sensational!
And so, my fellow tutu lovers, the story of the ballet tutu goes on. The tutu-à-la-française became an iconic part of the dance, sparking endless creativity, evolving over the years.
*Don't you love this story, darling? It shows us the tutu's ever-evolving, endlessly fascinating story. *
A bit about me: My name is Emma, I hail from Derbyshire and I’m utterly obsessed with tutus. I'm a vintage ballet enthusiast with a very real passion for ballet performances, travel, tutus and, well, just all things pink! I like to dance my way around the world - one pink tutu at a time!
If you love tutus as much as I do, be sure to share this blog post with your friends. Remember to use the hashtags #TutuTuesday and #PinkTutu.
Oh! I almost forgot to mention – after the ballet show, I will be indulging in a scrumptious London high tea! With all that excitement and dancing, my sweet tooth is definitely calling! You know me! If it's sugary and pink – I’m in!
Till next week, my dearest tutulettes, happy dancing!
Love, Emma
P.S. And do remember, wear a pink tutu at every chance you get – it’ll be my happy pink wish! The world needs more pink tutus!
