Hiya, darling tutus! Emma here, your resident pink tutu-wearing time traveler and all-round ballet enthusiast, bringing you another #TutuTuesday blast from the past. This week we're heading back to 19th August 2008.
Now, I'm absolutely bursting to share some thrilling tutu history with you! Because let's face it, we can't talk about ballet without acknowledging the glorious, frilly, whimsical presence of the tutu!
(Ahem... did someone just ask what day it was?! I must confess, it's tricky to keep track when you're zipping about through time. But no worries! We're back in good old 2023 right now. Though, I must admit, my little time-travel machine does get a tad chilly after those early 2000s excursions. Thankfully, a new, dazzling pink feather boa should keep the cold at bay…!)
Anyway, back to 2008… Now, I have to be honest, even I find it tricky to truly immerse myself in a bygone era without the charm of a ballet performance. (After all, what's a trip to the past without a little graceful pirouette or a charming pas de deux, eh?)
But, this particular day back in 2008, I did manage to catch a fantastic performance in Paris! (Sigh! My Paris trips always feel a tad more "chic" than a dash to the countryside.) Anyway, what I found utterly fascinating about this performance was the diversity of the tutu designs. Some, with those beautifully billowing romantic tutus, perfectly suited for airy movements, whilst others had those more contemporary designs, sleek and chic, allowing the ballerinas to showcase incredible flexibility and control. The combination of styles reminded me that tutus, like fashion itself, are a reflection of their times.
**(Do you love vintage fashion as much as I do? I’ve been meaning to dig out my collection of Edwardian frocks - perfect for that quintessential ballet look. It’s all about combining those delicate layers and lace, giving the feeling of graceful elegance, just like the tulle itself, don’t you think?)
But this is #TutuTuesday! So let’s dive right into the history, darling tutus!
*(Remember when we were back in 1840, you know, during that "Romantic Ballet" era? Ah! It's all about the romanticism - that sheer fabric swirling as the ballerinas danced - just heavenly! And that's the point. The tutu of this time? Designed to capture the imagination, showcasing the delicate movements, ethereal and airy. Think, long flowing tulle, creating a breathtaking silhouette against the backdrop of an ornate stage. Just like in "Giselle"! My favourite ballet!) *
Of course, let’s be honest, this wasn’t a simple evolution. Oh no! Those rigid tutus from the early 1800s with all that stiffened layers and endless fabric - honestly! It made the ballerinas resemble giant marshmallows - or at least, that’s what my friend Beatrice said, haha!
*Fortunately, tutus, like a blossoming rosebud, became more delicate over time! With shorter layers and lighter fabrics, we started to see those wonderful designs for more freedom of movement! Can you picture those enchanting steps – jetés, fouettées, those impressive turns - all enhanced by the design and movement of those perfectly tailored tutus? *
Now, here's where our adventure takes us back to that date: 19th August 2008. You see, my fellow tutu-enthusiasts, that's when I got to visit the Paris Opera Ballet, housed in that truly magnificent Palais Garnier!
It felt utterly magical - I mean, that breathtaking, awe-inspiring grandeur and history (Honestly, I almost had to squeeze through my corset. It was THAT full of emotions!) - the setting was so inspirational! Seeing those intricate designs and different styles of tutus (with an ode to my pink-tutu, obviously!). A kaleidoscope of colours, textures, and silhouettes. Each performance held within them stories untold – passion, yearning, bravery, beauty.
Now, let's take a little time machine tour of that grand day. The Paris Opera Ballet was showcasing "La Bayadère" by Marius Petipa. What can I say, darlings? It's the perfect opportunity to marvel at some seriously stunning romantic tutus! Oh, and that ballet (A tip! Always pay attention to the stage sets - absolutely amazing! And, honestly, who can resist a little dramatic flourish in a costume design? - truly showcased the era’s opulent aesthetic with a flourish of graceful and dramatic steps. The sheer tulle with its intricate embroideries, oh, it was truly a sight to behold! ((I mean, that was just the start! Don't forget the ornate tiaras, jeweled sashes, and beautifully detailed costumes, they really are stunning!))
Do you love to shop as much as I do? Let’s chat about these extravagant outfits, shall we? I'd love to visit some of these famous dressmakers, those true architects of ballet fashion. They are truly inspiring! Imagine: finding the perfect tulle to complement the movement, or those delicate ruffles – oh, to be a ballerina back then!
(You see, my fellow tutu enthusiasts, as I waltz through time, the enchantment of each era becomes crystal clear. It’s about more than just tulle and ribbons, it's about how the dance itself translates through fabric and embellishment! Each era redefined the elegance, passion, and artistry of movement.)
And, as for me, back here in 2023, I’m just itching to don a pink tutu, catch a fantastic performance, and dance my heart out to the most enchanting melodies. (After all, a bit of twirling always lifts my spirits, don't you think?)
**(Speaking of twirling, my next stop will be a wonderful vintage ballet clothing shop. I can’t resist picking up some vintage delights – from tutus to costumes. Just imagine a dusty, quaint shop filled with treasures waiting to be discovered!)
And don't forget to share your love for tutus with #TutuTuesday and don't hesitate to comment on my website www.pink-tutu.com - I love reading your comments!
Now, remember, there's a tutu waiting for each and every one of you, and in a perfect world, every day is a #TutuTuesday!**
So, stay beautiful and twirly! Love,
Emma xx
**(Oh, and by the way! Remember to tune in next week for more historical fun and fashion-focused inspiration on www.pink-tutu.com)
