Hello, darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing time traveller, Emma, back with another #TutuTuesday blog post! I've just popped back from a whirl around 19th century Paris - such a dreamy trip! Think beautiful cobbled streets, bustling cafes, and enough bonnets to make a girl's head spin.
But of course, the main event was the ballet. Oh, darling, the sheer magic! Imagine delicate tutus, the finest silks, and graceful movements that seemed to float on air. It was the very start of what we know as classical ballet, and the costumes were just divine!
It all started with Marie Taglioni, a real icon. She was like the ultimate ballerina – graceful, elegant, and a true trailblazer! In 1832, she caused quite a stir with a new ballet called La Sylphide. You see, it was daring! Up until then, ballerinas danced in long, heavy gowns - not exactly conducive to pirouettes! But Marie, with her artistic flair, opted for a flimsy, white skirt (think fluffy feathers on a willow) which was SO light, it allowed her to glide across the stage with an ethereal beauty. It was truly a sight to behold!
This, my lovelies, is how the tutu came into being. The first "tutu" was born from a desire for freedom and movement. A tiny whisper of tulle became a ballet symbol, representing lightness, grace, and a touch of magic. Can't you just feel the fairy dust shimmering in the air?
Now, don't get me wrong, this first tutu wasn't exactly the voluminous masterpiece we see today. It was much shorter, just like a frilly little petticoat, with lots of lovely flounces, a little like the layers on a wedding cake, don’t you think?
But even then, it caused quite the controversy! The fashion world was shocked, people gossiped, and critics were outraged! "Why are her legs showing?!" they cried, "Such a scandal!". Honestly, darlings, they need to lighten up a bit! I can't imagine the shock when tutus evolved further - longer, fluffier, more fabulous!
My trip to 19th century Paris got me thinking about how tutus have changed over time. They are more than just costumes, they tell a story, reflecting the cultural trends and artistic visions of the day.
So, let’s go on a tutu time travel tour, shall we?
19th Century Romanticism: Like I mentioned, the Romantic era of ballet (circa 1830s onwards) is all about delicate white tutus. Think Giselle, the ethereal tale of a maiden who dies of heartbreak – perfect for a wispy white tutu with airy layers!
19th Century Ballet Russes: This was when the tutu got an update - think shimmering layers and decadent colours. The Russian Ballets under the legendary Sergei Diaghilev made ballet even more dramatic, adding opulent designs with swirling colours.
1930s Ballet and Beyond: We see more emphasis on structure. Think about the tutus from the classic ballets Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty, with structured bodices and stiff fabric.
Contemporary Ballet: Now, this is where it gets really exciting! It's like the wild west of ballet fashion. Designers like Twyla Tharp and Mark Morris have redefined what a tutu can be. Think vibrant colours, flowing fabrics, even tutus made from materials like recycled plastic!
Oh darling, this makes my tutu heart flutter with excitement! It just shows, the evolution of the tutu isn’t just about fabric and form - it’s about artistic expression and pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Now, don’t get me wrong, a classic romantic tutu, all soft tulle and flowing layers, will always hold a special place in my heart! I’m particularly fond of a pink one, naturally. But you know what, there is something liberating and powerful about the diversity of the tutu world. It shows how ballet constantly evolves and keeps us on our toes (pun intended!).
Speaking of being on my toes, today’s the day I’m catching the Giselle ballet at The Royal Opera House in London! My time travelling outfit, of course, is going to be a beautiful soft pink tulle tutu with shimmering details. It's all about the perfect balance of tradition and a bit of sassy flair, if you know what I mean.
I'm looking forward to spotting the subtle details in the ballerinas’ costumes - the subtle hints of the history we've just explored! It’s amazing how a seemingly simple garment can tell so much.
Until next time, my dearest, twirl your worries away!
Stay fabulous!
Emma x
P.S. I know what you're thinking - "But Emma, how do you afford all this time travel?". It's simple, darling. It’s the magic of ballet performances! I simply perform for appreciative crowds (and of course, a bit of dancing in the street too!).
I hope you’re enjoying my #TutuTuesday adventures!
Don't forget, it’s all about spreading tutu joy! Let me know what you’re favourite tutu styles are! And tell me about your adventures!
I’ll be back next week with more fabulous fashion from a time travelling tutu tour!
Let’s keep the tutu dream alive!
Find me on www.pink-tutu.com!
