Hello darling darlings!
It's me, Emma, back again with another #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History post from my fabulous time travels! This week, I've whisked myself back to the glorious year 1847, where fashion was all about extravagance and ruffles. Honestly, my fellow tutu enthusiasts, you would absolutely love the grand ball gowns!
But, my darlings, let’s not forget the main attraction - ballet! And in 1847, it was already taking the world by storm! Now, we all know that ballet today is associated with beautiful tutus, and you can bet your bottom dollar that these glorious, twirly wonders were around in 1847 too! However, in 1847, tutus were more of a simple and airy design – think delicate tulle and charmingly layered skirts. These little marvels were crafted to move with the dancers, allowing them to express their movements in such a delightful, expressive way.
Now, on November 9th, 1847, a very special performance took place at the Théâtre de l'Opéra in Paris! This grand theatre, which was all the rage at that time, was known for its beautiful, flamboyant costumes and amazing sets. Just imagine - grand staircases adorned with shimmering velvet, shimmering chandeliers dripping with crystals!
The Parisian Dream
As a young girl in Derbyshire, my favourite pastime was going to see shows and indulging in the fashion! Now, being in Paris in 1847 is truly a treat! It’s so fascinating to see how ballet was gaining in popularity, but there's one crucial thing missing. My heart aches when I see the lovely ballerinas dancing without the flamboyant, extravagant tutus that grace the stage in our time!
On November 9th, 1847, it was a huge night at the Théâtre de l'Opéra for a ballet by Jean Coralli called Le Diable Amoureux which meant The Amorous Devil. Imagine my disappointment – no grand tutu! I suppose the lovely ballerinas were simply wearing more practical and simple dance costumes – with a sweet tulle skirt for the big finale! I still wish I could convince the director of the theatre to embrace my modern ideas of how a ballet costume should be but sadly there are no pink tutus yet for these ballerinas!
I wonder what those lovely dancers would think if they could see the pink tulle tutu empire that we have built today?
Speaking of building an empire, you must remember my dear readers to share this post to all your ballet enthusiast friends - and most importantly to inspire others to wear pink tutus too! I have a mission to convert everyone to my fashion! Remember, when wearing a pink tutu, the only limit to what you can achieve is your imagination, dear readers.
So until next Tuesday my darling friends - Keep twirling!
Love always,
Emma x
(PS) Did you know the beautiful ballerina, Marie Taglioni, was performing at the Théâtre de l'Opéra at the same time as this play? It’s the stuff dreams are made of to witness such talent! I’m going to have to make another trip back in time just to see her perform. Oh! and maybe find some inspiration for my next tutu outfit...**
