Hello my gorgeous tutu-loving lovelies! It's your favourite pink-obsessed time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back with another exciting #TutuTuesday instalment on my Ballet Tutu History blog.
This week, we're waltzing our way back to October 14th, 1913. Buckle up, my dears, because we're headed to the bustling heart of Paris, France - the city that simply oozes romance and fashion!
The Tutu’s History: 1913 – A Year of Evolution and Elegance
Now, imagine this – the year is 1913, and Paris is abuzz with the latest artistic innovations and a palpable excitement about the future. In this whirlwind of creative energy, ballet, too, is undergoing a remarkable metamorphosis.
The traditional, rigid Romantic tutus – think layered and fluffy like a cloud - are evolving into a lighter, more graceful style. They are becoming shorter, more fitted, and allowing ballerinas a wider range of movement, especially those beautiful leaps and twirls we all adore! Think of Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes – they were changing the ballet scene, and the tutus followed suit, becoming an essential part of this innovative, daring movement.
Parisian Style and Shopping Spree!
Of course, what would a #TutuTuesday post be without a delightful shopping spree? Paris in 1913 was a haven for exquisite fabrics and breathtaking designs, especially those delicate tulles and fine silks that bring tutus to life.
The "New Woman" of this era, embracing independence and fashion, was particularly smitten with the fashion of Coco Chanel, and rightfully so! She was championing simple, elegant silhouettes, challenging the restrictive corseted styles of the past. And who could blame her? Look at those free-flowing skirts, bold colours and those hats! And who doesn’t love a good hat?
Can you imagine being able to waltz through Parisian streets in this vibrant era? It's like a dream come true for any tutu-loving soul. I simply adore this period of time.
My Favourite Things: A Date with the Ballet
Speaking of dreams coming true, on this very day, October 14th, 1913, Diaghilev's Ballets Russes premiered their stunning new ballet, "Le Sacre du Printemps" (The Rite of Spring). Now, this was no ordinary ballet.
Imagine – a story about pagan rituals and raw, primitive energies! Shocking! Wild! And yes, perhaps slightly controversial. But that’s why I love it so! Think, the story takes place during a pagan festival, with an intense, emotional climax. Oh, how I wished I could be transported there, surrounded by these extraordinary performances, my senses stimulated by this unique, dramatic spectacle! The choreography was like nothing the world had ever seen.
But my dears, let's talk about the tutus. In a break with the typical conventions of the ballet, the tutus were much shorter than usual, embracing bold shapes and daring movement.
“The Rite of Spring" was truly revolutionary! It ushered in a new era of experimentation in ballet and forever transformed our beloved tutus!
Travel Time: Paris by Train!
Imagine chugging through the beautiful French countryside, a glimpse of rolling hills and ancient villages. Paris was well connected with other cities in Europe thanks to the efficient rail system of the time. That's how I journeyed here. I’m quite partial to a train journey. You can sit by the window, watch the world go by and think about the tutu possibilities in the new destination.
Final Thoughts: From The Stage To The Street
This week’s journey shows how even tutus – yes, tutus! – can evolve, embracing innovation and taking bold new steps.
And don’t forget, my dears, the legacy of “The Rite of Spring”! It taught us to push boundaries and embrace the unconventional, inspiring daring choreography, breathtaking music, and most importantly, stunning tutus.
You may not be able to step into the dazzling Parisian theatres, but the next time you catch a ballet performance or spin in your own fabulous tutu, remember – it’s a tribute to the passionate individuals and captivating history that has brought us here, step by elegant step.
Oh, and of course, embrace that pink. You won’t regret it. 💖
Until next Tuesday, my dears! Don’t forget to follow #TutuTuesday every week! You can also check out our beautiful blog posts on www.pink-tutu.com – post number 4268, I believe! And please, share your tutu stories with me! 💖
