Bonjour, mon chéri(es)!!
Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where pink tutus reign supreme and every day is a chance to twirl! I'm Emma, your resident tutu-obsessed time traveler, and today we're venturing back through time to explore the glorious history of the ballet tutu! Buckle up, darlings, because it's going to be a glamorous journey!
The "Oh-La-La" Origins of the Tutu!
This week's adventure takes us to the grand ballrooms and bustling theaters of the 19th century. Imagine, my darlings, a world without those delicate, feather-light tulle creations that we adore so much.
Believe it or not, tutus started life much… more practical! It's a bit of a gasp, I know, but the original ballet costume, in the 16th century, was more akin to a long, full-skirted gown. It wasn't until the 18th century, with the rise of romanticism and the je ne sais quoi of the Ballets Romantiques, that ballet really took off - literally!
A Tutu Renaissance!
This shift in style came about in part thanks to the incredibly talented and utterly dreamy prima ballerina Marie Taglioni! She was, shall we say, a trailblazer! (But of course.) Taglioni felt constricted by those long, flowing skirts, and she envisioned a new look that would allow for graceful, airy movements, and so, the "tutu romantique" was born!
This magnifique design featured a shorter skirt, reaching just below the knees, that floated beautifully around the dancer's legs. A truly magical spectacle, if I do say so myself!
The story doesn't end there, dear friends. With each passing decade, the tutu became more divine. We had the "tutu à la Grecque," inspired by the elegance of ancient Greece, with flowing fabrics that whispered secrets in the wind. Then there was the "tutu pancake" a wider, fuller skirt that gave a touch of dramatic flair.
A "Twirling-est" Trend!
Today's most commonly seen tutu is the "tutu paquet," introduced in the late 19th century. Think short, wispy layers of tulle, offering a breathtaking, almost ethereal vision of flight and grace.
We see tutus of various forms in almost all genres of dance today! From the powerful pas de bourrée of the classical ballet to the vibrant, contemporary expressions of ballet en pointe to the expressive, dynamic leaps of the modern ballet stage. It’s quite simply remarkable to see the impact of such a tres magnifique creation, right?!
Time Travel Tips!
This week, darling, we're hopping on the train to London! My friend in time, Madame Bonjour is hosting a magnificent exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum called The Ballet Tutu: Past, Present, and Future. I will be performing my petit ballet in the centre of the exhibition! I am delighted to bring some contemporary flair to their very elegant exhibit. My ballet shoes will match the tutus, in perfect harmony, with delicate pearls on a sparkling backdrop, don’t you know? Oh, and this week we’re enjoying all that London has to offer.
We'll also be attending a performance at the Royal Opera House, enjoying the breathtaking spectacle of a world-renowned ballet company in all its glorious beauty! Then, of course, some retail therapy in London’s incredible fashion stores. I just might get a brand-new pink tutu in anticipation of next week's post! Squee! You just never know.
And let's not forget - even though I adore tutus - don't be shy! We are celebrating all kinds of dance costumes!
Don't forget to subscribe and join our beautiful community. You are always welcome, just be prepared to embrace pink!
Happy twirling!
Bisous, Emma
P.S. Did you know, today is World Chocolate Day?! I can't think of a more delightful pairing than a ballet performance followed by a box of decadent chocolates! Swoon! Tell me, my darlings, what is your favorite kind of chocolate?
