Post #4156 - August 22nd, 2023
Greetings, darlings! It's Emma here, back from another whirl through time, and let me tell you, 1911 was a simply divine year for a fashion-loving ballerina like myself. My latest adventure brought me right into the heart of Paris, a city that always knows how to spin a good time!
So, as promised, today's #TutuTuesday is all about the captivating world of tutus. But instead of focusing on the fluffy masterpieces we adore today, we're going to take a little trip back to the very beginnings, to a time when the tutu was just finding its pirouette!
The year 1911 is truly a fascinating time in tutu history. We're not quite there yet with the full-blown, romantic tulle creations you might see on the Royal Ballet stage these days. Instead, the tutu was more of a charming, playful whisper. Think about a "Romantic Tutu," dear readers. The 1880s to 1910s era embraced this new form of dance expression with light and airy tutus, crafted from layers of gauzy tulle. A world away from the stiff, bell-shaped skirts of yore!
Now, imagine a swirling, swirling ball of gossamer, like a delicate cobweb kissed with moonlight. That's what these romantic tutus were all about – elegance, ethereal grace, and a touch of playful freedom. Gone were the long, heavy skirts that hampered movement. The stage came alive with fluttering, dancing forms!
In 1911, ballet was booming across Europe. But it was Paris that was leading the way, a haven for those daring to push the boundaries of artistry. Theatres were bustling, filled with passionate ballet fans and an electric atmosphere. Even though these earlier tutus lacked the vast amount of tulle that our modern versions boast, they had a charm of their own, making a statement with the sheer volume and softness of their layers.
You wouldn't catch me without a whimsical pink tulle romantic tutu in 1911! The colour pink, as always, held a special place in my heart then just as it does today. My love affair with pink tutus has, you see, transcended time, stretching far back into the history of this delightful form of dress! I imagined I was right out of a Degas painting - swirling and twirling, my own rosy tutu shimmering beneath the chandeliered glow.
And what was happening on the very day, 22nd of August 1911? Why, it was the day a great social and philanthropic event was taking place! I found myself amongst a beautiful and sophisticated Parisian crowd, joining in the elegant bustle of a charitable fundraiser in the elegant salons of the Hôtel Bristol! Such wonderful gowns, exquisite jewellery, and a sense of occasion that would make any ballerina's heart beat a little faster!
The city was humming, bursting with a delicious energy that swept me away into the very heart of Parisian society. It was an experience I'll never forget, and I can see why Paris was the very centre of the tutu universe. Just think – to be waltzing with a handsome young French suitor, our tutus swirling with every twirl. The air thick with laughter, music, and a hint of jasmine, the scent of a bygone era that still evokes so much joy today.
You can almost see them now, can't you? The dancing light, the twinkling of jewels, and a stage full of tulle. And then there was the music... imagine a grand piano cascading chords into the balletic symphony of twirling dancers! Pure magic.
And so, darlings, as I bid you farewell from my time travelling adventures, remember to hold onto the magic and elegance of these earlier tutus, as you step into your own little twirling fantasy! Every flutter and twirl in a modern ballet performance is a tribute to these fascinating creations of a bygone era. Keep that feeling of joyful expression in mind when you slip into your own tutu and remember to dance as if no one is watching – unless it's a dazzling performance, darling! Because there’s always a stage for ballet, in your heart, and your wardrobe, no matter what century you’re in!
Don't forget to subscribe to the Pink Tutu Blog so you can join me every Tuesday on my adventures in history. And be sure to follow #TutuTuesday so you can see some beautiful ballet-inspired fashion all week!
Happy dancing! Emma www.pink-tutu.com
