Greetings, darlings! Emma here, your ever-so-pink-loving, tutu-obsessed time-travelling ballerina. It's #TutuTuesday once again, and today we're venturing back to April 26th, 1910, to unearth some enchanting tidbits about the evolution of the iconic tutu.
Now, I just know some of you love a good fashion history deep-dive, so buckle up! Weâre stepping into a world of shimmering silk, frothy layers, and a ballet scene on the cusp of a transformative change. Picture this: Parisian theatres, gaslight illuminating the stage, and audiences adorned in elegant gowns and crisp suits, their eyes glued to the spectacle unfolding on the stage.
Oh, and wouldnât you know it, this day just happens to be the opening night of ** La PĂ©ri at the OpĂ©ra Garnier, Paris! Imagine, Mikhail Fokine leading the way with this enchanting ballet about an exotic spirit, danced with effortless grace by the lovely Anna Pavlova. It's all about whimsical choreography, a dash of romanticism, and yes, the oh-so-dramatic, beautifully ethereal costumes designed by Leon Bakst.
So, you might be wondering, what was the state of the tutu on that fine day in 1910? Well, you could say we were just about to bid farewell to the "Romantic tutu." Think soft, flowing tulle, cascading down to the ankles like a delicate, ethereal cloud, much like the ballets blancs you see in those dreamy Victorian-era photos. But fear not! The evolution was exciting and filled with possibilities.
From 1900 onwards, we started seeing something very different. Enter the "Short Tutu." Gone were the long, cumbersome layers! Instead, think lightweight layers of tulle ending just below the knees, giving dancers a newfound sense of freedom and movement. Now, picture Anna Pavlova in her iconic role, all swishing and leaping, and you get the idea! The short tutu truly made an entrance.
But hold on! 1910 was also a period when ballet was venturing into bold, innovative territory. New styles of dance, a fascination with the Orient, and a desire for something different started making waves. You know, Serge Diaghilevâs Ballets Russes with their daring designs by artists like Bakst, were rocking the theatrical scene! It wasnât long until the "Classical tutu" we know today started to become a staple, featuring a tightly fitted bodice and a stiff, knee-length, or even shorter, skirt. Think those captivating ballerinas in a sea of pastel tulle - oh my! They were simply glorious.
Now, don't think the change happened overnight. You see, dancers were pushing boundaries, and their costumes were reflecting the changing times. Thatâs why, in the early 1900s, we saw the development of the "Bell Tutu", with a dramatic wide skirt creating the illusion of a bell. It was short but had all that graceful fullness - imagine a lovely dance with lots of twirling and swirling!
Honestly, the story of the ballet tutu is quite captivating. From its modest beginnings as a way to lengthen a dancerâs silhouette to those glamorous, modern creations, each era of dance has left its unique imprint.
And remember, it's all about the way you feel! Want a frothy romantic look, opt for a flowing, cascading, âRomantic Tutu". Or feel the power and elegance of the short, daring âClassical Tutuâ, or maybe you want that glamorous theatrical impact of a âBell Tutu" or the timeless grace of a "Short Tutuâ. Whatever you choose, dear readers, the important thing is to embrace the magic and beauty of the ballet tutu and find your own unique expression!
And guess what? If you are looking for a real taste of this incredible history, head down to London, my lovelies! I just had to make a stop there earlier this month. I had a splendid time exploring the magnificent Victoria and Albert Museum, which just happens to house a superb collection of historic ballet costumes. I just couldnât help but try on one or two for good measure! It's a total time warp, and a feast for the senses, just like taking a train journey into the past.
Well, I better dash! I need to prepare for tonightâs show, in the Birmingham Hippodrome, the most exciting performance of Swan Lake. But I'll be back next week, ready to share more #TutuTuesday magic with you.
Don't forget to let me know your favourite kind of tutu! Until next time, stay fabulous!
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
