Hello lovelies! It’s your favourite tutu-clad time traveller, Emma, back again for another dose of Tutu Tuesday! This week we’re whizzing back to 11th October, 1910. Buckle up buttercups, because today, we’re diving headfirst into the history of the ballet tutu, the fluffiest, most delightful garment ever conceived (besides a pink fluffy bathrobe, of course!).
Now, you wouldn’t catch me dead in a drab grey dress – give me a splash of colour, darling! And what better colour than pink? A symphony of sweetness! Thankfully, even back in 1910, designers were starting to embrace hues other than the standard white. It was all about a whimsical femininity, a graceful fluttering, a sigh of pure artistic expression.
We're standing in Paris, darling. The heart of all things fashionable! We’ve hopped on the train from Derbyshire, packed my pink tulle and oh that feeling of anticipation… just the best, isn't it? We’re heading to the Opéra Garnier for a night of balletic beauty, and this year’s offering is Giselle, one of the most beloved ballets of the era. Just picture it – a beautiful young woman dancing in a cloud of tulle, a visual spectacle!
The tutu in 1910 wasn't quite as elaborate as the full-skirted marvels we see today. They were shorter, a ‘romanesque’ style as they were known, with a wider, more circular shape. Think of it like a miniature version of the magnificent tutu we're accustomed to, more about graceful movement than a full-on billowing spectacle. They were also often embellished with exquisite detailing, a subtle twinkle here and there of shimmering sequins or a delicate garland of pearls. Talk about a ballerina's dream!
Oh! Speaking of dreams, have you seen the beautiful frocks ladies are sporting these days? Silk and velvet, a dash of lace – it’s the epitome of feminine elegance. The high necklines, nipped waists, and billowing skirts create a silhouette that is both alluring and swoon-worthy. Just the other day, I spied a most darling little number with a hint of floral embroidery – pure magic! And remember, darling, these trends often find their way back in one form or another – watch this space for some delightful re-imaginations for our wardrobes in the coming seasons!
Now, I must admit, 1910 was a time of change in the world of ballet. It was still heavily tied to classical techniques and traditional stories, but a new generation of ballerinas were pushing boundaries with their expressive movements and artistic flair. Think Anna Pavlova! Such grace and artistry, darling, just divine! They started to take a stand, demanding more from their art, pushing the limits of how they moved and danced, and quite frankly, demanding more elaborate and spectacular costumes.
The demand for this new level of artistry even impacted the tutus! Designs began incorporating new fabrics like tulle – light and airy! – allowing for a new level of fluidity and movement, giving the dancers greater flexibility and ooh, darling! a chance to really showcase their talents. Imagine a multi-layered confection of tulle, each layer just a little shorter than the one before, creating a wave of soft movement – oh! So beautifully ethereal.
Speaking of tutus, just you wait and see, darlings, what marvels we have in store! The next hundred years, oh, it's simply magic! Imagine – dancers will begin using neoprene to literally make waves, oh my goodness! And even a *'ballet bodysuit, *made out of… fabric. And it’ll come in **EVERY COLOUR imaginable, darling, even purple!
Speaking of fashion, have you tried pairing your ballet shoes with a flowing skirt? Think* romantic ruffles, floral prints, a touch of lace… it's a perfect way to inject a bit of the ballerina magic into your everyday outfits! Oh! Or even wear them with a little *floral dress and cardigan, for that ultimate tea party glam. Just be careful with your petits tours in the park, darling! No need for any grands jetés on uneven ground. You can thank me later, darling!
But for now, remember, my sweet, pink-tutu wearing lovelies: whether it’s the romanesque tutu of 1910 or the modern marvels we’re creating today, one thing remains constant – the tutu is a symbol of elegance, grace and artistic expression. It’s a reminder that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and shades – from shimmering white to a glorious shade of pink!
So, until next week, keep twirling, darlings! And, please, let’s bring back the pink tutu for good!
Lots of love and pink fluff, Emma xx
#pinktutu #tutuhistory #balletlove #balletlife #fashioninspiration
