Greetings from the grand Palais Garnier, Paris, darlings!
It’s me, Emma, your pink tutu-clad time travelling ballerina, bringing you another Tuesday delve into the fabulous world of tutu history! As a devoted Derbyshire girl who grew up dreaming of pirouettes and prance, I’m always delighted to share my passion for tutus with you, from their whimsical origins to the cutting-edge designs that grace the world's most prestigious stages.
This week, we find ourselves back in the Belle Époque, a time of decadent grandeur and artistic evolution, as Parisian fashions dictated the haute couture across Europe. *And wouldn't you know it? * The 11th of November in 1913 marks a significant date for us ballet fanatics: The day Le Sacre du Printemps was first performed. Oh, how my heart still aches for its raw, groundbreaking choreography by Nijinsky - so utterly innovative! Though I must admit, dear readers, its rather untraditional ballet outfits didn't quite fit my pink sensibilities!
It's time to rewind to 1913, where tutus were in full swing, darling. We're talking billowing skirts and opulent, flowing forms! The fashion was simply dreamy and absolutely fabulous. Can't you picture those decadent details and ornate ornamentation? The tutus worn in ballets like The Sleeping Beauty were a breathtaking feast for the eyes, adorned with lace, beads and silk bows.
This, my dears, is a style that whispers elegance and romance - a sartorial symphony that perfectly reflects the grace and grandeur of a bygone era.
Of course, the most quintessential symbol of the era, and the element that still influences contemporary tutus is the 'Romantic tutu', introduced in the mid-19th century. It featured a longer, fuller skirt, a dreamy, layered creation made of tulle. Think the airy, ethereal garments in Swan Lake. That dreamy Romantic tutu - so airy, so feminine, it encapsulates every bit of the elegance that we, as ballerinas, try to capture in our movements!
Imagine yourself dancing in this enchanting ensemble, moving gracefully amidst the sparkling grandeur of the Opera House! What better way to truly embody the enchanting allure of the age of glamour!
Speaking of the age of glamour, wouldn’t you know it, the 11th of November also happens to be the 100th anniversary of the armistice in the Great War. * 11/11/1918* It’s always heartbreaking to reflect on this tragic event. But despite this, fashion and dance held onto the hope and vibrancy of life and, indeed, became a vital symbol of respite and entertainment during such challenging times.
How I long for this bygone age, where each performance was an absolute occasion and ladies really dressed to the nines. Even our journeys, especially those by train! Picture travelling in first-class carriages, adorned in beautiful sequin dresses, luxurious fur wraps and chic, satin slippers - a complete transformation from our modern, comfortable attire. The trains themselves were even gorgeous and opulent affairs. Now that is an elegant voyage!
But of course, the star of the show (even amongst these sartorial wonders) remains the Tutu - a timeless treasure of dance history. So, embrace this magnificent piece of fashion heritage. Embrace your feminine side. Get ready to prance, and slip into a gorgeous pink tutu today! It’s all about fun and joy, and expressing the unique beauty that shines from within. Don't be afraid to dance a little – after all, every step is a dance, isn’t it?
And my dearest pink-tutu-wearing fashionistas, remember to check out our "Shop" page on pink-tutu.com. We have a fabulous selection of vintage-inspired tutus just for you!
I hope this blog post has brought some extra sparkle to your week, darlings. Keep that pink tutu magic going! Don’t forget, *#TutuTuesday is a chance to celebrate *tutus and everything that’s fun, fashionable, and fabulous!
See you all next Tuesday, with a fabulous dose of #TutuTuesday history,
Lots of Love and Dancey wishes,
Emma xo.
P.S Be sure to check out our Facebook Page, "The Pink Tutu Chronicles", for all the latest news, fashion trends, and delightful updates on our next exciting time-travelling adventures!
XOXO
