Hello my darling tutu lovers! Emma here, back with another fabulous #TutuTuesday journey through the history of the most wonderful garment ever invented: the tutu! 🩰 Today, we're taking a trip on the express train to the past, landing smack-dab in the middle of July 8th, 1845. Buckle up, darlings, because this is going to be a real treat!
This post is number 706 in my Tutu History Blog, if you're keeping track. I've been so busy with ballet performances lately (a smashing rendition of Swan Lake last weekend! All the applause!) that my travels have taken a backseat. But a ballerina's gotta keep those time-travel legs in shape, wouldn't you say?
Speaking of legs, wouldn't you simply adore being transported back to the year 1845? It's a time of billowing skirts, romantic melodies, and delicate floral prints – oh my! Think swirling gowns, extravagant hats, and of course, the beginnings of what would become the beautiful tutus we know and love today. 💕
Now, let's put on our imaginary Victorian time machine and hop into the fashion scene. This is an era of opulence, and ballet, well, let's just say it was practically a national treasure in many European countries. You wouldn't be able to catch a performance without everyone wearing their finest. Imagine ladies in their lavish dresses, and the gentlemen in their starched cravats and perfectly groomed beards. Quite the picture!
What might our 1845 dancers be wearing, you ask? Well, they're still in the very early days of the tutu! No fluffy, frothy romantic tutus here yet, darlings. This was the time when the shorter, bell-shaped tutu - known as the Romantic Tutu - began to make its appearance on the stages of the world. It's a rather delightful tutu, a bit like a petticoat worn shorter and more fitted at the waist, all with layers of tulle swirling around the ballerina's legs. Oh, it just begs for graceful leaps and pirouettes, doesn't it? 🩰
This period also marked the rise of Marie Taglioni, a true ballet superstar! Known for her grace and artistry, Taglioni is credited with pushing the boundaries of dance and paving the way for future dancers to explore the power of the tutu. She was a true icon of elegance, making the Romantic Tutu look utterly divine, especially with the sheer length of the flowing layers of tulle and the exquisite tailoring of the corset. It was a look of lightness and ethereal beauty, reflecting the spirit of the Romantic Era itself. It's no wonder why this tutu sparked a sensation!
And who knows, maybe that's the reason for my obsession with the color pink! I bet, just like myself, this beautiful diva would have a penchant for the prettiest colour of all – think luscious, romantic shades of pink on those tutus, perfect for ballet and for adding an extra touch of elegance. 💖
Now, let's skip a few decades and hop back to the 21st century! Thankfully, these beautiful bell-shaped Romantic tutus continue to capture hearts and imaginations to this day. If you find yourself wanting to recreate a piece of the elegant 19th-century era for yourself, you can always channel that elegant and dramatic spirit. Look for simple designs with light and ethereal tulle, maybe some simple but chic detailing at the waist and definitely some beautiful pink accents. Just like a ballerina, I always say you need a few fabulous pink pieces in your wardrobe for every occasion. And don't forget, dear readers, there are few things as magical and uplifting as slipping on a beautifully crafted, whimsical tutu!
Until next #TutuTuesday, take care and remember to spread the tutu love! 💕
P.S. Did you know July 8th, 1845 was a Friday? A bit of trivia for all of you! I might just take myself off to the ballet this Friday. Who knows? I may even don my favourite pink tutu, I have been trying to break it out more. Perhaps even an entirely pink outfit... Now that's an idea.
XOXO,
Emma
