Hello my darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing time-travelling ballerina, Emma, back again with another instalment of #TutuTuesday, bringing you all the juicy history on our beloved ballet tutus!
Today, I’m whizzing through time to 8th June 2021 – oh, what a glorious time for fashion and for ballet! As a girl who adores all things pink, I’m delighted to say this era was dripping in colour and absolutely adored the ballet, so there’s plenty to discuss.
I landed right in the heart of Paris, the fashion capital of the world! Paris has always been my go-to for exquisite ballet tutus and oh, darling, it’s a true treasure trove. Imagine, fluffy tulle and delicate embroidery flowing like a Parisian sunset, sparkling like a thousand stars under the grand chandeliers at the Palais Garnier! What a sight for sore eyes! 💖
But let’s get back to the historical bit, shall we? As usual, I always pop on my trusty little time travel device (it’s a pink vintage suitcase, in case you’re wondering) and whisk myself to a ballet studio or a bustling market – the best places to unearth hidden gems of tutu history.
Now, in the world of 2021, the history of tutus took an interesting turn. Imagine, my darlings, a world with four distinct tutu styles?! Yes, the classical tutu, the romantic tutu, the tutu-à-la-française, and even the tutu-à-la-russe! All of them had their own charm, but I was utterly charmed by the tutu-à-la-russe! The way they swept and flowed on stage, like a symphony of fabric. And let's be honest, my dears, they were all utterly fabulous! 🤩
Let’s Dive into a World of Tutus!
Today's TutuTuesday is a little special. Imagine, my darlings, my dear old Derbyshire! That’s right, my birthplace. I hopped into my pink vintage suitcase and I'm travelling all the way back to my childhood days to witness the magic that ignited my love for tutus.
In the 1830s, a magnificent ballet called 'Giselle' came along, changing the course of tutu history for good. You can't imagine, dears, what an absolute spectacle it was. It became the first time ever that a romantic tutu with its iconic sheer, flowy skirts and waist-high silhouette took the stage. What a delightful change! Gone were the days of the constricting pannier - oh, dear me, that one wasn’t very comfortable!
As for the ‘classic’ tutu - this elegant masterpiece, made with several layers of tulle, gave it its shape and its iconic look. What makes it absolutely breathtaking, darling, are the perfectly fitted bodice.
Now, when I step into the spotlight at the Derbyshire Ballet Theatre I can feel that special history beneath my tutu. What an inspiration it is to know I'm part of something so wonderful and a big, happy community of fellow tutu lovers. It’s like magic, you know, darling?
I took my tutu-mania even further - by popping into the Derbyshire County Council archives! I discovered how the Derbyshire dancers were dancing the “Dying Swan”, a world-renowned ballet in the late 1800s. This was one of the biggest ballet pieces at that time. How amazing to be on that same path as these phenomenal artists? I adore those graceful white tutus – such pure elegance, my darling! 🦢
But before I vanish back to my time, darling, let me remind you of the true beauty of a tutu. They go far beyond being simply a beautiful garment! A tutu holds a special power that captures the magic of storytelling, movement, and human emotion on stage.
Now, back to the time travel and fashion. This time, my journey takes me straight to the iconic 2021 Paris Haute Couture Week. Let me tell you, darling, it was an absolute delight to witness the incredible fashion show. All the most fashionable women dressed in those glorious evening gowns - some even with sequined tutus! Oh, the spectacle! 🤩
For the rest of my travels today, I’ll be wandering around the glorious Ballet Opera House of Paris, savouring every moment, being part of this world that pulsates with creative energy and an extraordinary history. I’ll make sure to snag some fab Parisian snacks along the way (you know I love a croissant!), and perhaps even pick up a few accessories for my tutu collection.
See you all next week, my lovely tutu lovers, for another scintillating trip down history’s lane! Until then, remember, every day can be #TutuTuesday, darling!
Lots of love,
Emma 💋
www.pink-tutu.com
Don't forget to follow me on Instagram and TikTok: @pinktutuemma
P.S.: Let me know in the comments below if there is any specific tutu style or ballet you want me to cover in the next #TutuTuesday post! I'm always ready for a new adventure! 😉
