Hello darlings! It’s Emma here, your resident tutu-loving time traveller, back with another installment of #TutuTuesday! Buckle up, because this week, we’re stepping into the captivating world of ballet back in 1911 – just a little trip down memory lane, if you will. 🕰️
Today, the 15th of August 1911, was a Tuesday, just like today, but the world was a slightly different place! We’re in the midst of the Edwardian Era, and you know what that means? Fabulous frocks! Think lace, velvet, and bonnets – the epitome of elegant femininity! 👗
Now, let’s rewind the clock a bit to talk tutus. ⏪ As you might already know, tutus are like my sartorial soulmate. Pink ones, in particular, make my heart sing! 😍 But in 1911, the tutu as we know it today was still quite a newcomer. Think Romantic era and even earlier. We’re talking shorter tutus, designed more for swirling and ethereal movement than the big, billowing, multi-layered tutus of the modern era. But, oh, how stunning they still are!
While we’re on the subject, do you know about the origins of the tutu? It was actually created by a fashion designer – yes, you heard that right! The one and only Marie Taglioni, a famous dancer and a truly innovative spirit.
We all owe Marie a big thank you because the invention of the tutu marked a significant moment in ballet history. It freed dancers from the restrictive and bulky skirts of the time, allowing them to move with unparalleled grace and artistry! Talk about a fashion and dance revolution! 💫
What was I doing on this specific Tuesday in 1911? Well, my lovelies, I was most likely at a grand, gilded theatre in London. Imagine opulent décor, twinkling chandeliers, and the air alive with anticipation! Ah, the sheer magic of ballet in its heyday. 🤩
You see, London was where ballet truly blossomed around this time. The Royal Opera House was (and still is, thankfully) a beacon for ballet enthusiasts and a place where the most renowned dancers showcased their talents. Think Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes with Vaslav Nijinsky, Tamara Karsavina, and Anna Pavlova – oh my! They were pushing boundaries with their avant-garde choreography and groundbreaking style. I’m so thankful that history lets us watch those performances again thanks to archive videos and records.
While I would have been mesmerised by their dazzling performance, I wouldn’t have missed the chance to catch a glimpse of the latest fashion trends – imagine exquisite, intricate gowns with elegant drapes and delicate lacework. Just picturing those gorgeous Edwardian dresses makes me want to do a pirouette!
I could also be at a chic café enjoying a lovely afternoon tea and planning the next performance, or even better, catching a ballet class taught by a teacher steeped in tradition. Ballet technique may have evolved over time, but the underlying grace and elegance remain unchanged.
Today, in my little corner of Derbyshire, ballet continues to weave its magic. I adore attending local performances by up-and-coming young talents. Seeing the passion in their eyes and witnessing their dedication to this beautiful art form never fails to fill me with joy. 🥰
You see, dear friends, there’s something truly enchanting about ballet. It’s a form of art that combines beauty, grace, strength, and discipline, all while wearing beautiful costumes like the fabulous tutus we all adore! ✨
So, dear reader, tell me what is making you happy in your week? Do you have any stories to share? Let’s chat in the comments! I can’t wait to hear from you and to continue our journey through the colourful and captivating world of tutus! Until next week, remember:
- Be bold, be creative, and be utterly fabulous! ✨
- Live your dreams, and don't forget your pink tutu! 💖
This post, #4155, is a piece from Emma’s weekly series on Ballet Tutu History on the website www.pink-tutu.com, where she celebrates her favourite topic – tutus and their fascinating history! You can find Emma travelling by train, and performing on the stages of the UK, inspiring all to dance! She even fund her time travel by donating some of her earnings from performing to fund her travels.
