Hello darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, www.pink-tutu.com! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another delve into the fascinating history of the tutu. Today we're stepping back in time to 1910-11-22, a time when the world was just beginning to be captivated by the sheer, frilly joy of the tutu!
Now, I know what you're thinking: "Emma, surely you can't be telling me that tutus existed in the 1910s? Were they really even a thing back then?!"
My dears, everything was a thing back then! The Edwardian era was all about elegance, refinement, and a good dose of playful whimsy. And tutus, my friends, fit right in! While the early tutus weren't exactly the airy, billowing creations we know and love today, they were definitely beginning to take shape. Think more of a 'tutu-ish' vibe – skirts that were just a tad shorter, with layers of ruffles and frills, offering a hint of what was to come.
So, how did I manage to land in this delightful slice of history? Why, the usual way, of course – via a dazzling ballet performance! Imagine my joy at stepping into the grand, opulent atmosphere of a Parisian theatre. This particular evening was even more special. I found myself enchanted by a captivating ballet set in the 18th century, showcasing the dances of the French court! The ballerina, adorned with an elegant, flowing, shorter skirt with flounces that gave her steps an airy lightness, mesmerized the entire audience. And that, my lovelies, was my moment of tutu enlightenment!
But what about our specific date – 22nd November 1910? Well, darling, if I'm being honest, there's no massive historical tutu news on this very date. But hey, isn't it fun just to be transported back in time to a world full of glamour and grace? It's always worth taking a step back and remembering that ballet has a long and storied history, and it all started somewhere – and with something!
That doesn't mean our date is dull, though! The news of the day was buzzing with exciting events:
- In London, the Savoy Hotel was unveiling a brand-new Parisian-inspired dining room, "The Grill Room". A bit of France in the heart of England, how wonderful! This reminds me – imagine wearing your favourite pink tutu whilst indulging in some delicious Parisian pastries. Divine, simply divine!
- The world of football was being shaken up in England. Footballers from Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest went on a massive "football pilgrimage" to Rome. This reminds me of my grand pilgrimages on the railways of Europe – how I adore hopping on a steam train and whizzing off to a different era!
- But what was happening in my hometown of Derbyshire? My dear friends, 22nd November 1910 in Derbyshire was marked by the ever-present fog that hangs over the countryside during the colder months, as well as preparations for the local Christmas fair.
Let's focus on the lighter, more fashion-forward side of things – the exciting trends emerging in 1910 that are making my inner ballerina (and shopaholic!) sing with joy. Let me give you a little glimpse into the world of early 20th century style!
A Ballet-Inspired Fashion Fiesta:
- The Fashionable Edwardian Skirt: Think flowing lengths, full silhouettes, and exquisite details, from tiers of lace to frills. And those waistlines – oh, my, those cinched-in waistlines! They make even the most simple dress look effortlessly elegant. And what did those beautiful dresses need to complete the look? A hint of that ballet influence – a flirty, knee-length skirt with delicate frills. It's almost like the early stages of the tutu, isn't it?
- The Color Palette: Pale pastels reigned supreme, just like my own love for pink! Think creams, pale blues, lavenders, and soft yellows – colors that gave off an air of ethereal elegance. But even amidst these pastels, the Edwardian era embraced the bold brilliance of vivid jewel tones, especially emeralds, sapphires, and rubies! This blend of elegance and vibrancy just screams "ballet" to me!
- Accessories to Dance To: Now, when it comes to accessorizing, Edwardian women were masters! They adorned themselves with feathers, beads, lace, silk flowers, and sparkling gemstones. Hats played a big role – from towering feathered creations to the whimsical cloche. And then there were the gloves – so essential for maintaining that refined, delicate air. Think delicate silk gloves in ivory, white, or pastels – these were simply a must for every fashionable lady.
And oh, what about shoes? Now, let's talk shoes, my lovelies! The Edwardian ladies loved a pointed, stylish shoe – but unlike the sleek stilettos of today, they favoured ankle-strap shoes that offered both beauty and stability! They paired them with everything from dainty floral frocks to crisp suits and luxurious evening gowns, giving their outfits that extra dose of elegance and flair. This love of elegant shoes that combine style and practicality truly reminds me of our favourite dance slippers!
Let's take a quick leap forward – a mere few decades. By the 1930s, the tutu had finally fully arrived! And I was so excited to experience the joy and elegance of this most iconic dance garment firsthand. The 1930s tutu was full of light and grace – it gave dancers freedom of movement and created those captivating visuals we associate with the classic ballet form. It's really an amazing reminder of how fashion – especially fashion inspired by ballet! - evolves and blossoms over time.
Now, my lovelies, you know that I adore fashion, shopping, and indulging in all things beautiful. I believe that a touch of tutu inspiration can brighten up any occasion! Don't just limit yourself to wearing a pink tutu on #TutuTuesday – I say, wear it every day, on every trip! Spread the tutu love!
For next week’s #TutuTuesday, I’m going back in time – imagine, even before the 1910s! I'll be diving into the world of ballet's earliest beginnings and discovering how it was, well… even possible to dance with the clothes of the era! It’s a trip I’m so excited about, I think I’m going to go grab a pink tutu and dance with excitement just thinking about it.
So, keep coming back to www.pink-tutu.com, because, darlings, it's always time for a little bit of pink, a dash of frills, and a lot of tutu fun! Until then, spread the joy – and keep those tutu dreams alive!
Love, Emma
This post was made possible by donations received after the author’s last performance of *Giselle with the Moscow Ballet! Thank you, darling friends – I simply wouldn't be able to time travel without your love!*
