#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History: The Glittering Glamour of 1909
Greetings from the glamorous world of the ballet, my darling readers! Emma here, your pink-tutu-wearing, time-traveling fashionista, ready to whisk you away on another adventure in ballet history!
Today's journey takes us back to December 21st, 1909 - a year in which the tutu truly came into its own! It’s hard to believe it's already Tuesday! I just love starting the week off with some #TutuTuesday history - I’ve always had a penchant for the past, but my passion for ballet definitely ties into it - I wouldn't be where I am without those wonderful ballerinas of the past who shaped this extraordinary world!
This post is actually a bit special for me - I'm on the cusp of the new year, which has me thinking about the ballet's trajectory for the year to come. What fabulous performances are going to grace our stage next year?
Speaking of grace, have I ever told you about my absolute favourite dress shop in London? The House of Worth, right at the heart of elegance - it’s a haven for couture fashion! The other week, I happened to see some magnificent costumes they were crafting - imagine a deep emerald green, velvety tutu for a fantastical ballerina performance. Just glorious! You know I had to try one on!
And what would 1909 be without discussing the rise of ballet in Paris? It's just buzzing! The Ballets Russes, with the likes of the incredible Diaghilev at the helm, are absolutely setting the world alight. Those incredible costumes are just so revolutionary. Did you know the costumes for “Les Sylphides” in 1909 were designed by the famed Russian painter Bakst? Imagine, a beautiful palette of whites and soft greys, accented by flowing gauze skirts, a symphony of delicate movement and ethereal beauty! Just sublime!
But let's step away from the stage for a moment, because today is December 21st, and for a girl who loves shopping and exploring new trends, that means one thing: Christmas! It's so exciting - just a couple more sleeps until Christmas Day and all the glorious feasting and celebrations! But you know me, I always find myself drawn to the gifts under the tree - a stunning velvet purse? A pair of exquisite satin shoes? The shops are filled with delightful surprises, and for me, there's nothing better than a touch of sparkly festive flair - it truly makes every single tutu sparkle brighter.
In 1909, the Christmas traditions were quite similar to those we know and love today: a decorated Christmas tree, festive feasts with roast goose or turkey, and of course, exchanging gifts. However, I have a secret weapon - a lovely pair of new satin pointe shoes for Christmas this year, courtesy of my darling grandmother! You know she loves me, and nothing is more delightful to me than new pointe shoes! The feeling of those beautifully crafted shoes under my feet is magic. Just magical.
Oh! And the Christmas train rides! Don't you just love watching the snow gently drift past the carriage windows? I find a certain charm in those cozy railway carriages - and the anticipation for the upcoming holiday always brings a certain warmth to the journey. Just imagine yourself there, nestled in a luxurious compartment, a cup of hot cocoa in hand, watching the countryside whizz by, dreaming of the festive magic waiting at your destination. Pure bliss, I tell you!
While my dear Derbyshire may not be a ballet hub just yet, we're definitely catching up! Remember how I told you about that fantastic ballet academy that just opened up in town? The one with those amazing mirrored rooms where you can just get lost in the grace of your own movement? I'm thinking of getting them a beautiful pink tutu for their next ballet performance. Imagine the exquisite grace of their ballet against the soft backdrop of pink-tutu-clad dancers! What a fabulous vision for my next blog post!
Well, my darlings, that's it for this week! I must confess, this year is whizzing past, and already my #TutuTuesday blog is nearing its one year anniversary! To celebrate this magnificent milestone, I’m thinking of having a very special giveaway! A chance to win a very special pink tutu designed just for you! But for now, keep on spinning, keep on twirling, and may your Christmas be filled with magic, laughter, and a touch of shimmering pink.
And please do remember to check back next week for another enchanting #TutuTuesday adventure!
Until next time,
Emma xo
P.S. And don’t forget to check out our online shop for all your pink tutu needs! You’ll find everything from tutus, pointe shoes, accessories and more!