Hello my darling dears! Emma here, back with another exciting #TutuTuesday and a fabulous journey into the history of the ballet tutu! If you’re like me, then you’ve got a closet full of tutus, ready for every occasion, but have you ever stopped to think where they all started? Today, on the magical date of February 25th 1913, we're about to find out!
Tutu-ally Wonderful
Post Number 4235: The Big Bounce - 1913
So strap on your dancing shoes, dear readers, because today we’re taking a trip in my trusty time machine (powered by the pure love of a perfectly puffed tutu, of course!). I've just returned from the glittering halls of the Paris Opera House, and what a delightful adventure it was!
It’s almost unbelievable, really, to think that the history of ballet can be traced all the way back to the 15th Century – and the word "ballet" itself is from the French “ballare” which means “to dance.” Can you believe it? So many incredible ballet innovations and changes since then… The evolution of ballet itself is just so incredibly interesting.
Right back at the very start, tutus were more like big billowing skirts called ‘fichu’. They just covered the dancers’ bodies - like very much like everyday clothes, actually. But in the mid-19th Century, the romantic era really began to flower in the world of ballet. They became lighter and fluffier, as Marie Taglioni became one of the first ballet dancers to showcase a very revealing skirt in La Sylphide – this was the big breakthrough, the turning point for the tutu and it is still incredibly influential.
Let's not forget, darling, the amazing women who have worn tutus on stage, the iconic ballet legends: Marie Taglioni, Anna Pavlova, and of course, the legendary prima ballerina assoluta - Margot Fonteyn, whose style is timeless and forever inspiring. And can we talk about the incredible modern-day ballerinas like Natalia Osipova and Sylvie Guillem, who move like poetry and grace personified. I can only dream to be that amazing!
The tutu on the scene
Now back to 1913 and my adventures! Today was a whirlwind! Paris, oh Paris - what a city! I simply adore all the grand avenues, the amazing fashion houses on Rue de la Paix. All those incredible dress shops... My heart nearly exploded when I saw a fabulous pink satin dress! It was all about silk, feathers and embroidery, oh my! It felt almost Victorian, in the best way, with its layers and details.
My very first stop was The Palais Garnier, the Paris Opera, to see ‘Giselle’. It’s still one of the most loved and performed ballets, a story about a heartbroken girl who becomes a wily Wilis, (those supernatural spirits, darlings). I can’t quite tell you what happened, though – I was distracted by all the magnificent tutus - absolutely divine! I thought my heart would just explode when I saw those layers of tulle. Each little ruffle and stitch just so perfect… and they sparkled in the spotlight! The tutus of this era, those beautiful ‘romantic’ tutus - they were just so feminine, elegant, and absolutely stunning! So much inspiration to take away - if I can ever learn to dance like those lovely ladies, I will be happy.
It’s All About the tutu
Right back to 1913, what a great time to have been alive. This was an era when Paris was all about the avant-garde, where it was the cutting edge, the ultimate expression of style, creativity and fashion, and so much more, of course, especially for the tutu. And they say tutus got more and more dramatic and decadent all through the 1910s. Can you imagine how that looked?
Now here I am in London – such a magical place! I came via train – my favorite way to travel! - and what an amazing journey. There is no way to get tired of seeing countryside, of course, it's a different kind of beauty from the exciting energy of Paris. Today is a good day for exploring!
The Power of Pink
You know what, if I had my way, everyone would be rocking a pink tutu. But of course, life isn't always about ballet, so we need to start small. So join me and the #pinktutu revolution – why not take a step towards spreading the love of the tutu?
Here is my plan! I need everyone to dress up! The world is a much brighter and more joyful place in pink – so it's important for you to show your tutu pride! Whether it's in your living room, on the streets, or just when you’re going out, why not dress to the nines with a pink tutu, a stylish pink dress, a little pink ballet wrap – whatever makes your heart happy, embrace the power of the pink tutu. We need all the help we can get, darlings, to spread the word! It's time to be bolder and to take action!
Ballet tutu facts: A quick recap
- Romantic tutu became popular around the middle of the 19th Century – all that flowing, layered tulle!
- Ballet dancers are the bravest people! Because the tutu’s short and it is sometimes incredibly long! And there's not even much under it! So it's a true act of faith, if you will, on the dancer’s part. It really is the epitome of poise, style, and artistry!
Tutu is the best word to describe what ballet is: graceful, sophisticated, yet incredibly fun – I just can’t help myself, I’m going to grab another tutu and go to ballet class this evening – see you next Tuesday, darling! Don’t forget to spread the pink tutu love!
And let’s get that fabulous #PinkTutu hashtag out there!
*A Time-Traveling Tutu Blogger's Tips: *
- For a more vintage, 1913 vibe: Think layered, feminine details, all that sheer chiffon and flowing fabrics, think pale colours like pinks and blues and lots of silk. And accessorize with a fancy fascinator - what's more romantic than that?
The perfect tutus are made from three layers of soft tulle - and just don’t let anyone tell you a tutu isn’t right for a dinner party! If it's good enough for a prima ballerina, then it’s definitely good enough for everyone!
Pink? Definitely the most beautiful and girly colour to have a tutu in, don't you think? My absolute fave!
Make the tutu your own! Experiment with different styles: a long tutu, a fluffy tutu, a vintage style… Whatever style of tutu speaks to your heart!
Wear it with pride! And don't forget to make a dramatic twirl! The Tutu is your best friend – they look so divine as a piece of clothing for so many reasons and there is nothing else quite like them.
Until next Tuesday darlings, I'm going off to find another tutu! Go make it a tutuful Tuesday!
PS – Want to see some lovely ballet? Check out my latest blog on my trip to see The Royal Ballet at the Royal Opera House in London – it was totally gorgeous. I'll be putting a link up in my next post!
Remember to check back for #TutuTuesday next week!
