Hello lovelies! It's your favourite tutu-obsessed time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back with another #TutuTuesday for www.pink-tutu.com. This week, we're taking a trip down memory lane – all the way back to 1922! Now, I know what you're thinking: "Emma, a whole century ago?! How can tutus possibly be that old?!" Well, my darlings, the tutu's history is long and beautiful, and this particular year holds a rather delightful bit of tutu-related news!
Fast forward from the Romantic Era
Firstly, let's get one thing straight: the tutus we know and love weren't born in a single moment! Their evolution is as captivating as a swan lake pas de deux. Remember the "romantic era" we've been talking about in recent #TutuTuesday posts? That dreamy, flowing style from the mid-1800s? Those beautiful tulle skirts, often with multiple layers, became a bit too much for the dancers. Imagine spinning around with all that fabric, the tutus resembled puffy clouds!
The Tutus Go Modern
Then came Marie Taglioni, a ballerina so beloved she practically rewrote the history of the tutu. She favoured lighter fabrics like muslin and silk, giving us that streamlined, elegant silhouette. And with less fabric came more movement! The ballerina's art was taking centre stage – graceful jumps, effortless turns – all that elegance made the tutus just as important to the choreography as the steps themselves.
Twirl Through the Decades!
But now, onto the news of 1922! It was a big year for the ballet world: Sergei Diaghilev's Ballet Russes was taking the stage in a spectacle of dance. Imagine beautiful costumes, incredible sets, and choreography unlike anything the world had ever seen! It was a revolutionary moment for the ballet!
1922 & the Influence of "Les Sylphides"
In the world of fashion, this period saw the arrival of flappers and bobbed hair – all those dazzling, liberated styles! Fashion and dance were both bursting with innovative ideas, and the Ballet Russes were certainly feeding that creative energy. And speaking of energy, one of their biggest hits – "Les Sylphides" – was showcasing a beautiful ballet, complete with the now-iconic "Romantic" style tutus - a flowing, diaphanous masterpiece! It was a show so impactful that even the clothes and fashion of the day took a cue, moving away from the more voluminous looks towards a more minimalist approach.
A Tutu Story Told by Train
You'll never guess how I'm getting back to 2023 – it's a rather glamorous mode of transport! The train is always such an adventure – the scenery, the clicking wheels, the chance to people watch... (and to dream up outfits for the next #TutuTuesday, of course!) So, as I look out at the countryside and sip on my Darjeeling (and let's be honest, a sneaky éclair from the station buffet), I'm pondering just how much ballet has evolved. The graceful flow of the tutus, the amazing stories they tell, it's truly inspiring!
*And guess what I found in my travels? *
A vintage fashion shop filled with dreamy Parisian dresses, gorgeous gloves, and – wait for it – a Tutus for All Occasion collection!! Can you believe it?! I'll share some of my findings soon - I'm definitely picking up some inspiration for my wardrobe!
Time for some tutu fun!
So, there you have it! Another #TutuTuesday journey complete. Tell me what you love about the tutu story, and remember to post photos of yourself in your best pink tutu. We want to see that sparkle! And, my dears, always remember: "Life is too short to wear boring clothes," and especially too short to skip the twirls!
Stay fabulous,
Emma xoxo
P.S. Keep your eyes peeled for next week's #TutuTuesday – I've got an exciting story to tell you about the world of "pink" and ballet, all those delightfully fashionable connections. You don't want to miss it!
