Bonjour, my dearest Tutu Twirlers! It’s Emma, your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller, back again with another edition of my Ballet Tutu History blog! This week, I’m waltzing back in time to the glorious 17th of September, 1912! Fancy a little trip back to the Roaring Twenties? Oh, I do love a bit of history!
Now, you’ll have to forgive me if my language is a little old-fashioned this week, but it’s all in the name of authenticity. Just picture us all at a London tea party, ladies! I’m positively buzzing with excitement because 1912 was a particularly thrilling year in the world of ballet. Imagine, dear reader, a world without our modern ballet staples – leotards, tights, and even the humble ballet shoe we know and love.
Where We Found Our Inspiration: The Ballerina of the Time
Believe it or not, the graceful figures we admire on stage were adorned in… well, something very different from today’s outfits. Imagine billowing, swirling skirts, more akin to a ball gown than the sleek, practical tutu we’re familiar with today! Now, picture a ballerina adorned in flowing white silks and tulle. Picture delicate ballet slippers that only accentuated their long, elegant legs. Imagine a dance floor ablaze with movement, swirling gowns and beautiful shoes as the main attractions. Ah, just the sight of these costumes alone would be a sight to behold, would it not?
And while these earlier costumes may seem a touch heavy and cumbersome by modern standards, I daresay there was a certain charm to them! There was a theatrical elegance, an undeniable romanticism that imbued the dance with a special magic. Picture an era of powdered wigs, grand costumes, and opulent sets - you couldn't help but be swept away in the magic of it all!
But it wasn't all grand costumes and romantic dance. The evolution of the tutu had already begun in this era, spurred on by the rise of Ballet Russe and their artistic revolution. That's right! 1912 was a landmark year for ballet!
The Rise of the "Romantic" Tutu and Ballet Russe
A new era dawned in the realm of ballet in 1912, all thanks to the incredible Ballet Russe, a company that revolutionized the art form with their artistic innovations. Remember the dreamy tutus we associate with the romantic ballet style? Think long, flowing skirts of white tulle, a complete contrast to the tighter, shorter tutus of today. That look is directly inspired by this company! Their designs emphasized movement and beauty, a perfect complement to the grand choreography.
You might be asking yourselves, what makes a "Romantic" tutu, you ask? Well, these magnificent garments weren't just about swirling fabric, they were also about showing off the dancer’s every graceful movement, their elegant poses, and even the way the fabric swished and moved on the stage! Think a dramatic, voluminous, and light skirt that is worn, typically with the bodice of a dress and long sleeves. This romantic look would soon gain even more attention by dancers in later decades, becoming a staple look of modern ballerinas across the world.
Now let's talk about fashion and travel, the essence of 1912:
Ah, the fashions of 1912 - what a delightful world of corsets, elegant hats, and elaborate gowns! If you’re looking for a little 1912 fashion inspiration, I highly recommend seeking out designs from designers like Paul Poiret! But my personal favourite? The stunning gowns with long, trailing trains - oh, how I'd adore seeing those on the dance floor today. These intricate creations added a level of grandeur that was almost theatrical, just as breathtaking as any ballerina's costume.
And who could forget the grand journey of travel? As an avid time traveller, I relish the experience of riding by train! In 1912, railway travel was booming! Imagine boarding a beautiful, gleaming train in Derbyshire, and whisking away to a wonderful destination in a carriage, a touch of romantic glamour to any trip. If only they had these grand carriages today! The very concept of the journey added a touch of grandeur to daily life, adding that lovely touch of theatrical elegance.
So, there you have it, my darling Tutu Twirlers, my foray into the fascinating world of 1912.
A Blast from the Past: Why We Should Love It Now
I hope you've enjoyed this little peek into the past and its timeless charm. And now for a little #TutuTuesday takeaway: We may be living in a modern era where ballet costumes have evolved in a more streamlined and functional way, but there's a beauty in respecting the past and its impact on what we do today. I hope it will inspire you to appreciate the history of our beautiful dance and its beautiful traditions. We can use what we learn to embrace our creative selves and dance like a true star in our own unique way!
Until next time, my lovelies. Don't forget to keep dancing your way through the week and embracing all the little things in life! Don't forget to rock a tutu for me and #TutuTuesday!
Oh, and as a little parting gift, here's a fun fact! The very day we're visiting was marked by a historic sporting event, the start of the inaugural Olympic Games. Can you believe it, darling? Such wonderful events happening all around the world in 1912. So keep those toes tappin', you lovely, elegant dancing superstars!
And remember, always twirl, always smile, and wear that pink tutu with pride. Because every day is a day to dance!
XOXO,
Emma
