#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1913-04-15

Hiya lovelies! Emma here, back again for another installment of #TutuTuesday, bringing you all the pink-tastic news and history about the most fabulous garment known to woman: the ballet tutu! This week we're going back in time - right back to 1913!

Just imagine, London, 1913. It’s the height of fashion, everyone is dressed in their finery, and I’m whisked away on a delightful train journey straight to Covent Garden to see The Sleeping Beauty by the magnificent Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes.

Goodness gracious! Such beauty! Every last detail, from the exquisite choreography to the dazzling costumes. It’s clear to see why ballet tutus were so adored then, just as they are now! They embody so much grace and elegance.

Now, you've probably never seen anything quite like a tutu in 1913. Back then, tutus weren't the fluffy, romantic designs we're used to. Think more The Red Shoes, but a little less vibrant! They were mainly designed as an elegant base for the magnificent costumes, intricate and flowing, worn in the productions.

However, in The Sleeping Beauty, you’ll notice something new, the ballet’s ballerina’s wore a special new kind of tutu, and this is why it's so fascinating! For the first time, you’ll see a tutu worn on its own, completely devoid of added costume detail. It's not exactly the classic *look we all love but it's an *exciting departure, it signals a step towards the development of the romantic tutus we all know and adore. Just like myself, I'm always thrilled with every little leap in the world of ballet fashion!

That being said, 1913 was a year for big, bold, statements, think full skirts and flowing lines with a dash of dramatic detail. My own wardrobe is certainly inspired by the period, lots of pretty pink taffeta, layers of lace and tulle. This kind of elegance never goes out of style! You really do have to give some credit to those 1913 designers; the tutus worn on stage weren't just pieces of clothing, they were works of art!

Now, remember my trip to Covent Garden, my little ballet-loving self could not resist a visit to Liberty's. Oh, what a treasure trove! It's a delight just looking through those rows of opulent fabric, perfectly-designed silks, and velvet, just begging to be turned into magnificent costumes! And while we’re talking about exquisite textiles, remember that tutu tulle was usually made from silk, it’s not cheap (and sometimes, I even wish it could be a bit more extravagant!), I’ve definitely got some grand silk designs in my collection!

Of course, no journey into the past is complete without a little treat. Let’s talk afternoon tea! There’s nothing better than getting all dolled up and having a proper, classic afternoon tea. With dainty sandwiches, delicious scones, and of course, a good cuppa, and a lovely piece of cake. What else could one possibly need?

Speaking of needing, let’s talk about this gorgeous tutu obsession of mine. Do you need more convincing that you absolutely must have a pink tutu in your life? Let’s get a #pinktutu revolution started, people! Remember everyone needs a touch of pink in their lives; it's fun, fabulous and dare I say it the most magical colour ever! So go on, let’s make pink tutus the norm!

Now, as you go through this week, why not try embracing some 1913 style yourself? Get your lace out, dust off your taffeta skirt, and don’t be afraid to go for that elegant and graceful feel! Remember, the ballet was bursting with panache, I really do think we all can benefit from a bit of a dramatic flourish in our everyday lives, don’t you agree? Just like the lovely pink tutus in The Sleeping Beauty - a bit of magic never goes amiss.

Until next time, stay fabulously fabulous,

Love, Emma