Greetings, dear readers, from your favourite pink tutu-clad time traveller! Today marks the 1717th installment of my #TutuTuesday Ballet Tutu History blog, and as always, I’m thrilled to be swirling back through time with you! 🩰
This week, our magical journey lands us in the vibrant heart of Paris, France, on the 22nd of November, 1864. A chilly Parisian autumn, I’m sure, with the leaves painted in hues of auburn and gold, perfect for a charming stroll through the city before a delightful ballet performance. Speaking of performances, what a magnificent spectacle to be seen in Paris at this time!
The Paris Opera, that majestic, opulent theatre, is brimming with the magic of ballet. In fact, the renowned choreographer, Marius Petipa, has been working on a masterpiece titled “Le Corsaire” (The Pirate), which promises to be a thrilling affair.
My oh my! It features breathtaking costumes, daring choreography, and, naturally, plenty of elegant tutus. Can you imagine swirling and twirling to the exquisite music under the ornate chandeliers of the Paris Opera? Oh, to be there in my own pink tutu! Imagine the gasps and compliments I’d receive from the French aristocracy – a little English ballerina with a flamboyant pink tutu, amidst the grandeur of Paris, what a sight that would be!
But of course, let's talk about the tutus. Now, back in 1864, the tutu wasn’t quite the fluffy confection it is today. It was still relatively new, and the designers were experimenting with styles and silhouettes. In fact, it was in this very era that the “romantic” tutu took shape. This was a graceful, bell-shaped tutu, longer than the earlier styles, with layers of soft fabric. Imagine how perfectly it flowed with every movement!
It’s rather amazing to think that these very tutus, worn by ballerinas like Carlotta Grisi (one of my absolute favourites, her famous portrayal of Giselle, an ethereal masterpiece!) and Fanny Cerrito (who was, let me tell you, a trailblazer, literally, as she wore the first ever tutu to appear in a ballet!), have set the foundation for the tutu of today. And oh, how I love today’s tutus! Especially the pink ones. The soft, romantic, whimsical pink tutus that evoke images of sugary confections, springtime blooms and graceful fairy tales. Don’t you agree?
Of course, my dear readers, we can’t forget about the exciting world of fashion in Paris, 1864! A fascinating blend of elaborate designs and burgeoning new ideas. The iconic crinoline was still the queen of feminine fashion, but the “bloomer” style, a daring choice of trousers paired with a skirt, was gaining popularity, much to the consternation of traditionalists! (Personally, I say bring on the bloomer pants - comfy, stylish, and perfect for twirling!)
Speaking of trends, did you know that this very date in history, November 22nd, 1864, marked the launch of Harper's Bazaar? Imagine, the beginning of a truly iconic fashion magazine! That year, the first edition debuted with beautiful illustrations and informative content, offering a window into the fascinating world of fashion. If I had the chance to time travel to this date, you can be sure that I would snag a copy – after a proper perusal of the latest tutu styles in the Parisian fashion houses, of course!
For the time traveller, nothing is quite so thrilling as exploring a different era, with its unique sartorial and theatrical marvels. As I journey through history, I hope my #TutuTuesday posts are sparking your interest in the captivating world of ballet and its fascinating connection to fashion.
Don’t forget to stay tuned next week for more tantalising tutu adventures! And, remember my dear readers, every day can be a #TutuTuesday if you embrace the pink tutu, the joy of dance and the wonders of history.
Until next time,
Your Pink Tutu loving, time-traveling blogger, Emma xx
