Hello, darlings! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-clad time traveller and, of course, your weekly guide to the delightful history of the ballet tutu. It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another whirlwind journey through the world of tulle and taffeta. This week, we're heading back to February 3rd, 1914. Buckle up, darlings, we're going on a sartorial adventure!
You know, 1914 was a curious year for tutus, and it's actually quite an important year to take note of, as we are really getting into the romantic era, a period when we start to see the classic tutu as we know it today take form. Think romantic swirling, billowing, and most importantly – delicate! Oh my! This is where I really get excited because the shapes and styles are so captivating.
But let’s rewind a little. We've been flitting through the centuries, starting with the rather practical tutus of the 17th and 18th centuries. But things began to change as the 19th century waltzed into view! Gone were the rigid corsets and cumbersome hoopskirts, and in their place, we found freedom and flowing silhouettes – perfect for showcasing the artistry of ballet.
The romantic ballet tutu became so popular that everyone was wanting one! My friend Florence even commissioned one from a well-known seamstress in Derbyshire. But it wasn't all rosy, and it is important to remember, my darlings, that ballet wasn't for everyone back then, with many young women struggling to make ends meet and the stage was mainly for the wealthy, even if you were incredibly talented and passionate like Florence. Sadly, many of her ambitions were sadly cut short because she didn't have the same access and support to dance schools that some of her richer classmates did, despite her sheer natural talent! But a new wave of innovation is in the air, my dear readers, and soon the stage will be more accessible to everyone, so Florence's future doesn't seem so bleak to me. The ballet world, as always, is full of twists and turns, with highs and lows - just like a beautiful arabesque!
Anyway, back to 1914, which was a very exciting year indeed! This year brought us two absolutely divine ballet premiers that the world went crazy for. Imagine a sea of pink and cream silk and tulle cascading through the audience – oh my! I've been fortunate enough to travel through time to see both these magnificent shows! Imagine a magnificent spectacle – stunning dance and dazzling tutus – just fabulous!
The first one, “The Firebird”, a truly beautiful ballet, premiered in Paris. What a day for fashion! Imagine the gowns of the wealthy Parisian ladies – those extravagant gowns were almost rivaled by the vibrant and flamboyant costume design for the dancers in the production. We have to credit Vaslav Nijinsky with its phenomenal choreography, along with the amazing costume designs for Igor Stravinsky’s magnificent score. This was a major success!
The next stop, London! This is a trip I’m so looking forward to – I am so happy to report that there has been a tremendous resurgence of ballet interest in London. Even though many people were worried about the war looming on the horizon, this didn't stop audiences from flocking to London’s Covent Garden Theatre, and the first ever showing of “The Legend of Joseph” ballet on February 3rd 1914, by *Adolphe Adam, *an absolute icon, who you might remember was one of the most prolific choreographers of the era, known for his brilliant interpretations of music for stage. The response was wonderful, it was a packed house and such amazing gowns and even some tutus amongst the ladies – I loved all the feathers and fluffy tulle that graced their dresses, they really put me in the mood to twirl!
Let's not forget about our favourite tutu details for the time period. While long tutus became a thing, short tutus also got quite a bit of popularity and we even saw dancers wearing variations of skirts for performances in 1914 – it really started to feel more relaxed and informal as they became more streamlined, just lovely, my darlings.
One last little tidbit, a very fun thing to add here! There is an extremely unique tradition that has started happening with ballet around 1914 – ladies are wearing ballet slippers and matching tights - yes, darling, these are very modern! They came in many colours - even red, brown, and pink (of course!). Can you believe, darling, that wearing slippers to see a ballet was not really even a thing until this time? Who would have thought! They can be worn casually, with tutus, dresses and suits – they added a bit of refined chic to their daily looks, it is such a great style for casual outfits as well.
On that delightful note, darling, until next week, let's keep our spirits up and enjoy the enchanting world of ballet tutus! Remember to check out my website www.pink-tutu.com and follow me on social media @PinkTutu, and join in the conversation. Until then, happy twirling and I’ll see you all next #TutuTuesday!
