Hello darlings, and welcome back to my little corner of the internet, www.pink-tutu.com! This is your #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blogger, Emma, and this is blog post number 4361 – a true milestone! Can you believe it? 4,361 blog posts about the most beautiful, twirly, wonderful piece of dancewear imaginable!
It’s so exciting, my loves, that you’ve joined me for another journey through the history of the tutu. We’ve been touring all over the world this year, from the majestic theatres of Paris to the grand ballrooms of Vienna, and this week we’re in – well, I couldn’t resist, I simply had to say it – the absolutely ravishing city of London.
As a Derbyshirian girl at heart, London holds a special place in my heart. It’s the place to be for seeing the most exquisite shows, exploring the trendiest shops, and – oh yes, don’t forget – indulging in a spot of tea in a gorgeous tea shop while watching a captivating performance.
Now, you know the drill – it’s #TutuTuesday, so let's get our time travel ready! We’re going back in time to July 27th, 1915. Let's travel by train, of course. Who could resist a scenic train journey? The smell of the engine, the clicking of the tracks, and those gorgeous carriage windows, catching the reflections of the changing countryside.
And the most important thing: what were our lovely tutus like back then? Well, let’s just say they were certainly… daring.
We are, of course, in the midst of the Edwardian era and fashion was truly blossoming! Women had their chance to wear some fantastic creations, and the tutu, my lovelies, was no exception! Imagine a flowing cascade of tulle, sometimes reaching almost to the floor! A glorious vision in shades of pale pink and buttercup yellow, with ribbons cascading in elegant knots, and perhaps even a hint of feather boas!
Think a more theatrical and playful take on a ballerina's dancewear, rather than the structured and classic design that would come later. The tutus were more about the spectacle, and creating an illusion of flight and freedom. You might think it looks cumbersome, and believe me, these tutus could be rather impractical for pirouettes, but they were oh so stunning, and made those ballet dances feel so glamorous!
Imagine these stunning creations shimmering under the dazzling lights of the London Opera House as our ballet stars pirouetted with breathtaking elegance, making the hearts of the audience skip a beat. I just adore imagining that beautiful ballet, just like it was in those glamorous times.
1915 was also a year when we saw a rise in nationalist sentiment, with the first World War impacting everyone in ways big and small. For London’s ballet world, it was also a time of exciting change, with the first Russian ballet productions taking center stage! Imagine the excitement! It must have been a whirlwind of swirling tulle and incredible new stories!
This time period was key in creating the romantic ballets that we know and love today! You see, the classical dance scene in London was already growing when these exciting Russian companies arrived with new, exciting dance dramas – with storylines that brought tears to the eyes and the most glorious dance movements you can imagine! This Russian influx fueled creativity in the British ballet scene – and sparked a love affair between London audiences and Russian ballet that still thrives to this day!
What makes these moments even more magical? Well, my dears, imagine the magnificent costumes! The designs, my lovelies, were something truly special! They were crafted by masters, and the embroidery? Oh, my love, a sight for sore eyes! Pearls and jewels and satin ribbons, oh my! You know I love anything glitzy! These gorgeous pieces created a visual feast and a symphony of colours that enhanced the magic of every story!
My little cherubs, don't forget that we're going through this enchanting dance journey together. Tell me: Do you adore ballet as much as I do? Have you caught any performances in London? Which London dance company is your favorite? Share your thoughts with me! It's always lovely hearing your dance adventures.
But, most importantly, let’s stay true to our #TutuTuesday tradition! What do you say, my lovely ladies? Should we all wear pink tutus today in homage to those amazing ballerina costumes? Because a true fashion enthusiast always finds a way to embrace the love of tutus!
Until next #TutuTuesday, keep your hearts dancing! See you all on our next ballet adventure!
