#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1974-08-27

Hello my darlings, welcome back to my little corner of the internet dedicated to all things pink and twirly! It's Tuesday, which means it's time for another dose of #TutuTuesday, where we explore the magnificent history of the ballet tutu! This week, we're waltzing back to the glamorous year 1974, where the Romantic tutu was truly reaching its peak.

It's a glorious day here in Paris! I just arrived from a delightful train journey across the English Channel. It's always a joy to travel by train, especially with a fabulous pink tutu to make the journey even more spectacular. I'm feeling inspired by the cobblestone streets, the delicious aroma of fresh croissants, and of course, the legendary ballet companies I’ll be seeing in this city of dreams.

This week, let's go back to 1974, a year where fashion was embracing a sense of fluidity and romanticism. It was a time when the Beatles were still enchanting the world with their music, disco was bursting onto the scene, and women's fashion was a captivating blend of free-flowing silhouettes and feminine flourishes. But this was also the year when a certain dance style started becoming truly fashionable, making the Romantic tutu an icon, not just on stage, but off.

Now, let's delve into the history. For those new to the tutu game, let me refresh your memories - the Romantic tutu, a beautiful embodiment of grace and femininity, evolved from the revolutionary ballet form known as le ballet blanc. This enchanting style was a far cry from the grand court ballets of the past.

Imagine flowing, light tulle layered with such ethereal delicacy that it practically dances in the breeze, hugging the body but leaving it free to move with enchanting elegance. It was a revolution! It was the epitome of delicate artistry and captured the essence of innocent beauty. The Romantics loved it! And so did the audiences.

Why are the Romantics so important? It’s easy to understand when you look at these designs:

• The Romantic tutu first appeared on the scene in 1830, the age of "Romeo and Juliet" and the novels of Jane Austen, when writers like William Wordsworth were capturing a more spiritual side to human emotion, love, nature, and imagination. It reflected this burgeoning artistic sensibility, bringing forth a spirit of innocent, almost celestial, grace.
• Remember this, the ballet tutus weren't the only part of the outfit - think delicate satin bodices, often beautifully detailed with silk ribbons, floral motifs and jewels.
• Imagine it, they wore shoes - usually white satin pointe shoes - creating an otherworldly, delicate and graceful illusion.

So how did these magical Romantic tutus change over the years? Well, the mid 1800s brought its share of changes. It wasn't always about simplicity. Think the extravagant use of feathers, beads and jewels in "Giselle". Even though a few more layers might be involved, the overall look was always the ethereal and enchanting. This evolution gave the romantic tutu so much variety and it remained an essential part of the ballerina's wardrobe throughout the decades.

1974 is the perfect year to look back upon because it truly represents the Romantic tutu at its peak! The stage became an intoxicatingly captivating mix of graceful elegance and alluring movement. The sheer, romantic charm of the ballet tutu, whether in shimmering white or pale, ethereal pink, radiated through choreographies from a glorious generation of ballerinas. The Romantic tutu became synonymous with ballerina artistry.

But let's go back to the future. What about modern times? These beautiful garments are not confined to the stage. Modern times call for tutus to step into the limelight beyond the realm of dance. I think the Romantic tutu is perfect for everyday fashion and can work for absolutely any style. Think bright, vivid colours like fuchsia or flamingo pink. Maybe a sparkly, silver fabric or a vintage-style lace design? This timeless, romantic elegance works for every woman, every age, every style. The key is to have a bit of fun with it, a little dash of flair and a lot of imagination.

So my darlings, go on, indulge your inner ballerina. Remember that the Romantic tutu was about freedom and femininity - a celebration of beauty. And that's exactly what you are! So go out there and twirl!

I've just purchased a few items I simply can't wait to tell you about, I picked them up in my favourite store just off the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Think exquisite fabric designs that make my ballerina heart beat faster:

1. A magnificent pearl pink tutu with layers upon layers of shimmery tulle that I will be using for my next stage performance. You must imagine a breathtaking, romantic dance under the Paris moonlight, just wait for it! It’s perfect for the performance!
2. I also grabbed a blush-toned tulle scarf with delicate rose embellishments to complement my Parisian attire and add a touch of charm to my daily looks. I might even wear this beauty for my upcoming train ride home, which, of course, means it will be an exciting journey home for everyone in the carriage. Who knows, they may even want to buy their own.
3. And then I bought myself an embroidered white and pink blouse. Think dainty floral motifs. I will wear this for my daywear, the style has been inspired by the graceful lines of a dancer, perfect for any fashionable, ballet-loving lady.

My blog wouldn't be complete without talking about ballet shows. I'm delighted to say that I've snagged some fabulous tickets to see "Swan Lake" at the Opera Garnier, so that's the big ballet date this week, right here in Paris. And let's be honest, Paris always seems more magical under the magical spell of ballet!

So, my lovelies, do take care, and keep those tutus twirling. Remember to tune in every Tuesday, where I share a new ballet tutu history with you. My dream is to bring the joy of the tutu into the world, and to make everyone feel as magnificent as a ballerina!

Till next Tuesday, darlings, and remember, pink is the most powerful colour!  

Emma xxx www.pink-tutu.com Blog post number 7444