Hello, darlings! Welcome to #TutuTuesday, Blog Post Number 4378, and my little corner of the internet dedicated to the gloriously fabulous history of the tutu! Today, we're taking a trip back in time, all the way to 1915, to see what the fashionistas of the era were twirling in! Now, picture this, my loves: a crisp November day in 1915. Imagine the streets of Paris, a whirlwind of chic hats, dapper suits, and of course, the most wonderful tutus!
I have to admit, travelling back to 1915 is always such an adventure. The train journey was an absolute delight, full of fascinating characters. A charming gentleman, quite the dapper dresser, in his early 50s sat beside me with his book. He reminded me of the classic movie star, Fred Astaire! I wonder if he was perhaps related to a dancer, as he seemed so incredibly graceful even as he sipped his tea! I spotted a group of young women in elegant dresses and chic, wide-brimmed hats heading to the opera - their excitement almost palpable. I could practically see the tutus they were imagining swirling beneath those dresses.
And speaking of swirling, what are you waiting for, my darling readers? Get out your pink tutus, crank up the gramophone, and join me in this fashion journey to 1915.
A Tutu Revolution!
As my journey continues, I find myself standing outside the Palais Garnier in Paris, my mind buzzing with anticipation for this magical day!
This day was an important milestone in tutu history, for this year was a real game-changer! It marked a turning point in the way tutus were designed and worn, it saw the arrival of the classic Romantic tutu. Oh, my dears! Can you picture it? A romantic ballet, with a single, lightweight layer of tulle, gently falling down to the knees!
Just like those stylish hats on those delightful young women on the train, the Romantic tutu represented a shift towards greater elegance and beauty, a reflection of the changing aesthetic trends of the day. It wasn't just about covering the dancers’ legs – it was about highlighting the beauty of movement, about making every twist and turn graceful and mesmerizing.
Now, while we admire these magnificent ballerinas floating in those romantic creations, we also need to remember the incredible effort and hard work that goes into crafting these masterpieces. Back in the day, those romantic tutus, like everything else, were entirely handcrafted. Think delicate lace trims, and a whole lot of tulle layered meticulously to achieve the perfect flow and volume! Each seam and every stitch was done with meticulous care, with attention to detail that would make any seamstress proud!
Now, I know what you're thinking: "But Emma, my darling, wouldn't the ladies have felt like they were melting away in all that tulle?" You are right to question this my dear! 1915, even with all the progress it brought to tutu fashion, it was still a time of practicality! You have to remember, my darling readers, ballerinas used to spend hours upon hours training! That means moving, sweating, all while maintaining perfect poise in a light as a feather tutu! So, these lovely ballerinas had to choose carefully. If their outfits weren't designed thoughtfully, they'd not only end up uncomfortable, but would even hinder their performance! It's a testament to their strength and dedication, and to the ingenuity of their creators that they created designs that not only enhanced their movements but allowed them to showcase their talent in its fullest!
More than a pretty skirt!
Think about the layers of history tucked within the seemingly simple design of the tutu! Every little detail - the carefully chosen fabrics, the delicate trims, the meticulous craftsmanship - speaks volumes about the spirit and the progress of an era!
And speaking of eras, in the world of tutu history, nothing remains the same! Fashion always keeps on evolving. The Romantic tutu may have been a revolution in 1915, but soon enough, there would be even more incredible designs for ballet dancers to flaunt.
This is just the beginning, my loves, because our tutu adventure has only just started! I can't wait to see where our journey takes us next! I promise, there will be many more stunning and fabulous stories from the world of tutu history!
Until then, don't forget to grab your pink tutu and share your own ballet memories! And, always, keep your minds and your imaginations flowing!
Love and twirls,
Emma! xx
You’re all probably wondering, like, What on earth did happen on this very special day?! You just have to wait, you curious little sweeties! For I just can’t share everything in a single blog post. But, don’t worry – just wait and see what’s coming on Wednesday’s #WednesdayWow. It will be so worth the wait!!
Don’t forget, this isn’t just about remembering what happened. It’s about understanding how much every little step in the past has shaped the magnificent world of the tutu we know and love today! And trust me, it’s a history full of stories that’ll make you say "Wow" again and again! So stay tuned!
Have you all watched this FABULOUS performance by The Royal Ballet?! What an absolute triumph. They all moved with so much grace. A classic ballet never goes out of style! It has all the elements of the perfect fashion show, really. That, and the clothes are even more fun! It is very nearly a tie with ballet for me. And even with such amazing dance steps I know that if you really focus on the movements the most interesting parts are the ballerina’s incredible legs and feet, just look at their calves! I'm always amazed at the amazing things we can do with the human body, really.
Now I have to pop out and get my daily dose of delicious shopping in, the best shops are here in London.
London, London, you are an absolute joy!
You will find me next week back on #TutuTuesday - Until then, keep twirling and rocking your pink tutus, darlings!
Until next time!
Lots of Love,
Emma
xx
