#TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History on 1864-11-15

Bonjour, my darlings! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet, where tutus are always in bloom and dreams are as grand as the most spectacular pirouette. Today, as usual, I'm bringing you a #TutuTuesday full of historical delight. We’re hopping on the time-traveling express (I’m quite partial to the London to Paris route) to land ourselves smack-dab in the middle of… November 15th, 1864!

Imagine, if you will, a Paris bursting with charm. The cobbled streets echo with the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages, the aroma of freshly baked pastries hangs heavy in the air, and the elegant ladies with their delicate parasols and flouncy dresses stroll through the streets with grace and confidence. Ah, a most delightful time, wouldn’t you say?

Today, dear readers, we’re going to peek into a ballet performance – I’m positively thrilled! Imagine the excitement. But first, let’s delve into the world of tutus, specifically around this date, in 1864!

Now, in 1864, tutus were not quite the iconic frills we know and love today. While the basic shape had evolved (a graceful, layered design), it was the romantique tutu, with a much longer skirt reaching just below the knee. Think wispy layers, light as a feather, allowing for those enchanting leaps and delicate jumps that would mesmerize audiences! Oh, what a stunning sight!

These tutus were, of course, still the colour of dreams – pure white, a colour that symbolized purity, grace and angelic beauty. The ballet world then was just beginning to experiment with colours – the colour white was a sign of sophistication and grandeur. But fear not, my darling tutus! Pink was just on the cusp of entering the world of dance fashion. I see it! It’s going to be utterly divine!

Right now, in 1864, my dear fashionistas, we’re sitting in the audience of the magnificent Opéra Garnier, an architectural wonder in its own right. Imagine gilded balconies, elaborate chandeliers and velvet seats. Such decadence!

Tonight’s ballet, Giselle, a timeless masterpiece by the famed Adolphe Adam, is a story of love, betrayal and sorrow. The romantic tutu is perfectly suited for the elegant, mournful moves. A bit melancholic for my taste, but the beauty of the performance is unmatched. I particularly love the expressive leaps and intricate footwork – oh my, so exquisite!

My travels have revealed that the year 1864 was a truly vibrant period for fashion. In this Paris, every single day feels like a grand fashion show. My dearest fashionistas, if you were transported here with me, we’d be simply giddy!

Imagine strolling through the chic boutiques with windows boasting stunning gowns and elegant hats. You could get yourself a romaine hat adorned with flowers, an epitome of style for that time. Even though pink was not considered "ladylike" yet, you could snag the most glorious white silk ribbons to tie around your beautiful gowns. Oh, darling, the options are endless!

I'm so happy to have shared a glimpse of Parisian ballet and fashion with you in 1864. Next week, we'll explore a new time and a new tutus - it’s a whole new adventure to uncover. But until then, embrace your inner ballerina, dance your heart out, and keep dreaming in pink, my loves!

XOXO,

Emma

P.S. My dearest friends! Do remember, the Tutu Tuesday blog goes live on pink-tutu.com every single Tuesday, just in time to lift your spirits and set your hearts on fire. Do spread the pink tutu love with your friends!

P.P.S. I’m funding this fabulous trip by performing, my love for dancing keeps my time-traveling engine running. Come along for a show next week, perhaps a performance of La Bayadere? It’s utterly captivating. I’ll be in my pink tutu of course! And do look out for a post next week, where I'll reveal how I bring these wonderful performances to life.

And that, dear readers, is all for today. Now, excuse me while I whip up a celebratory champagne and revel in this week's wonderful journey!