Bonjour, my lovely tutu-lovers! It's Tuesday again, and that means it's time for a little trip back in time with your favourite pink-loving, tutu-obsessed ballerina, yours truly, Emma!
Today we're going all the way back to 9th May, 1916. Fancy a little whirl through history, dear reader? Grab your cuppa, settle into your comfiest armchair, and let's embark on this lovely little time-travel adventure, together.
You see, being a ballerina doesn't just mean pirouettes and plies. It means a life devoted to the beauty of dance and a passion for all things theatrical - from the shimmering costumes to the breathtaking set design. My favourite part? Those delightful, ethereal tutus. It's a real honour to spend my time travelling to various eras to see the evolution of these beauties! And I fund my escapades by doing what I love best - dancing, naturally! This week I just came back from a delightful time in Paris, performing a little show with a troupe of the most darling French dancers - we were all decked out in sparkling, silver tutus and feathered headdresses! Simply magical!
And speaking of magic... it's 1916, a time when the world is a little more innocent. This year, Diaghilev's Ballets Russes are doing a stunning run of Parade in London. And yes, dear reader, you guessed it, the costume design? Simply breathtaking! Think daring silhouettes and playful pops of colour. The influence of the Ballets Russes is just starting to take hold, injecting fresh, bold ideas into the world of ballet.
The Evolution of the Tutu
Now, you might be thinking, tutus, tutus everywhere, right? Well, let's just say, our beloved tutu journey is a long one. It's a story of fashion, of evolution, of change! Today's iconic image of the ballerina with her billowing tutu, swirling and twirling across the stage? Well, it hasn't always been that way!
Back in 1916, you might have caught a glimpse of the romantic, floaty "tutu" style with several layers of tulle, known as the Romantic Tutu. These were dreamy and graceful, flowing from the waist downwards. However, the tutu in 1916 was on the brink of evolution!
You see, Diaghilev, that dashing innovator of Russian ballet, he started a revolution in costume design. The era we're talking about? Think of it as a melting pot - the Romantics were starting to be a bit... well, predictable. This sparked a thirst for something bold, something new, and Diaghilev certainly delivered. Enter the shorter tutu, sometimes reaching the knee, hugging the legs like a second skin! It was a real departure, more fitted, more dynamic, and so beautifully elegant. The Ballets Russes tutus were vibrant, rich with textures and bold colour - think splashes of colour against crisp, bold black - all making such a dramatic statement! It’s almost as if those brilliant ballet dancers were dancing on sunshine.
Imagine, my dears! The tutus were less frilly and more streamlined. Think bold geometric shapes, the kind that demand your attention! This kind of innovation changed the perception of the ballerina forever.
Finding the Right Tutu for You
Of course, being the Tutu Queen myself, I understand the need to find that perfect tutu! It needs to feel like an extension of you - you can wear it, you feel like the leading lady, you feel beautiful and confident.
When you're choosing a tutu, I have some tips:
Embrace Your Personal Style: You don’t have to conform to trends. Remember, I've found a stunning, antique velvet tutu in a little antique shop in Edinburgh, just perfect for a classical number - and it looked stunning against the amber lighting! Do what feels right!
Dare to Be Bold: Don't be afraid of a splash of colour. In 1916, those Russian ballets were making quite a statement! Let that bold inspiration guide you, darlings. You want that tutu to dance off the stage!
Don't Underestimate the Importance of Fit: You're in for a beautiful surprise - tutus look incredibly stunning in all shapes and sizes! I have seen it all from elegant flowing skirts on the more fuller frame to dramatic shorter, sculpted skirts on petite frames! Let the perfect fit allow you to move gracefully and showcase your poise!
Tutu Adventures for Every Age
Don't think a tutu has to be reserved for just professionals. Think picnics, teatime, theatre nights, or just strolling through the park - the opportunities are endless, darling! It's time to embrace the ballerina inside, no matter how big or small your passion for the art form. The world's your stage!
So there you have it, my darlings. A little glimpse back into the world of ballet and its fascinating journey through time! Now, tell me, which tutu are you going to slip into for your own Tutu Tuesday adventures this week? I can't wait to see! Don't forget to share your looks and stories with me! I can’t wait to hear what you’re wearing and see all the beautiful outfits! Remember, always, always stay sassy, and always, always rock that tutu, dear readers!
Until next Tuesday! Love,
Emma, your #PinkTutuQueen
