Oh my darlings, it's time for another jaunt through history! Welcome back to Pink-Tutu.com for our weekly delve into the delightful evolution of the ballet tutu. Today, we're setting our sights on 3rd June 1856 - a date that's as enchanting as a freshly pressed tulle skirt!
Before we even step into the swirling world of the 19th century, I must tell you all about my utterly divine adventure last week. I found myself in Vienna, the city that whispers waltz and oozes elegance! You can just imagine the opulence, the grand architecture, the cobblestone streets bustling with carriages. And oh, the clothes! Fashion, my loves, is truly an art form, and Vienna is a living, breathing canvas.
But, back to our time-traveling escapades. On this day in 1856, something quite incredible happened: The Grand Opera House in Paris held a premiere! Not just any premiere, my dears, but a brand-new production of Giselle! This ballet, composed by the genius Adolphe Adam, became a smash hit – it even starred the beloved ballerina Carlotta Grisi in the leading role. Now, imagine a ballet so popular that people still talk about it decades later! That's what Giselle achieved, and believe me, it's still captivating audiences today.
Speaking of Giselle, did you know it has a revolutionary connection to the evolution of the tutu? It's true! In the past, dancers had to wear more restrictive, full-length skirts. It was Carlotta Grisi who dare to wear a shortened, light and flowing tutu that showed off the fluidity and elegance of her movements. Can you picture the buzz? The gasps of the audience as they saw the sheer freedom of her steps?
Can you see why I love to share these historical moments? It's not just about the dresses, darling! It's about how fashion and performance combined to redefine an era. And I know you're thinking about those beautiful tutu styles – well, hold onto your feather boas, because today we're completely immersed in tutu history!
For our 1856 date, the ballet tutu still carried the romantic essence of its early years. Imagine the dreamy fabrics – soft cotton, silk gauze, and yes, even muslin, were used for the tulle skirt. The overall aesthetic was very romantic. We're talking airy, delicate, ethereal – the embodiment of a graceful, feminine spirit. And can you imagine how magnificent they looked with their perfectly layered tiers?
Think flowing fabrics, and colours in soft, romantic shades – blush pinks, cream, light blues, or even delicate greens. Imagine these stunning colors set against the elegance of a dimly lit theatre. Oh, I simply adore the way light dances over the sheer, layered fabrics, making them appear almost ethereal, even spectral. Just think of how magical that would have been to watch.
The details are exquisite too. I am completely fascinated with the sash, or ribbon that graces the tutu. Often trimmed with delicate lace or silky bows, it really tied (pun intended) the whole look together. Think delicate pearl embellishments, even delicate feathers to give an even more graceful and captivating look. You see, for a truly enchanting look, each detail, each movement, each sweep of the fabric told a story – a story about the dancer, and their artistic vision. It was, after all, about letting the tutu be a part of the art.
To say I am completely smitten with tutus is an understatement. This year's shows in Paris were breathtaking – I simply had to attend them. So much is done with such artistic talent – not to mention it was such fun for a fashion lover to see the amazing colours, styles and the dramatic movement of the dancers. It makes you want to jump up and down just like them! But I shall resist – for now at least!
Do tell me what you are making with your tutus, dears! Send photos of yourself and share your favourite #TutuTuesday stories with me on Instagram - I can't wait to see your amazing creations!
Next week, I plan to be taking a trip on a train and stopping off at a wonderful little shop, in my favourite shade, you can guess - pink, of course - I'll be telling you all about my most gorgeous new purchases – so don’t miss me next Tuesday!
Until then, stay fabulously stylish!
Love,
Emma x
