Hello my darling dance-delighted readers! Emma here, ready to whisk you back in time to the glorious year of 1843, where tutus were just as delightful as today! I may be your average pink-tutu loving ballerina blogger by day, but by night I hop back through the annals of history, using my street performances (those tips you throw really help, thank you!) to fund my trips back to times of glorious ballet.
Oh, 1843! A time of bustling London streets, shimmering silks, and the rise of an absolute sweetheart of a ballerina: Fanny Elssler. Imagine, darling, a ballerina with such exquisite grace and strength, she could leap higher than a giraffe in heels!
Now, let's step inside the theatre, shall we? The opera house was a wonderland, all plush red velvet and glittering chandeliers, where ballet was like a delicate flower blooming centre stage.
The highlight of 1843, darling, was none other than the enchanting La Esmeralda! The tale of a young, innocent Romani girl is truly heart-wrenching, and Fanny Elssler, oh she simply brought it to life! We're talking breathtaking movements, passionate performances, and, let's not forget, costumes that would have made even the Queen swoon. Think flowing skirts, beautiful floral details and, of course, an iconic red and black tutu with a little sprinkle of sparkle. It’s definitely a must-see performance for any ballet enthusiast, especially you history lovers. You can find historical prints and recordings if you fancy a look and perhaps inspire some contemporary interpretations, eh?
But let's not just focus on London, darlings. Ballet was spreading across the world! In the romantic heart of Paris, Marie Taglioni, a true icon of ballet, was enchanting audiences with her delicate and dreamy performances. This is the era, my dears, where ballerinas weren't just showcasing technical skills, but telling stories, igniting emotions, and capturing the very soul of their characters on stage. The tutus? Ah, my darling readers, simply heavenly! With long, graceful, floating skirts, they emphasized the dancers’ lightness and delicacy. Picture floating through the air on a bed of tulle. Magical, no? They certainly were more floaty than those of today, and less flamboyant than we’ve seen recently! We might have to visit the wonderful archive at the Victoria and Albert museum next time we’re there. The sheer, tulle fabric is truly amazing, all soft layers of flowing, heavenly light pink. I'd happily twirl for hours in such a beauty, wouldn't you?
Oh, and have you heard, dear reader? There's a little rumour swirling about ballet's fashionable friends: Shoes. 1843 saw the birth of pointed, leather slippers! Now, that's exciting news, darlings! Can you imagine? Ballerinas dancing in comfortable yet fashionable footwear? They’re so beautiful in their delicate simplicity. Even those delicate ribbon laces would have my head spinning with envy! It’s such a contrast to the huge pointed shoes, the heavy, cumbersome ballet boots, and the clumsy slippers that had previously hampered these lovely performers. These were a sign of elegance, a sign of comfort, and, darling, this means, better dancing for us! The ballerinas would have been ecstatic.
Now, if you are looking for some beautiful inspiration, darlings, head to London. There is an enchanting new ballet shop, a tiny little gem with the most elegant costumes, all handmade, on Regent Street. A haven for all ballet lovers with beautifully delicate and romantic silk dresses for performances and a swoon-worthy selection of exquisite, pointed satin ballet slippers that I just have to have. Sadly my time-travel fund can't stretch that far but oh, the possibilities! If only! I've heard tell of the exquisite craftsmanship and the gorgeous designs of each piece. They have the most delicious shades of pink! I can't imagine anything more lovely! Perhaps we could set up a ballet shoe exchange service for our blog followers?! I'll certainly have to check it out and I shall, of course, let you know all the news, darling!
Oh, darling, how can I leave you without a touch of fashion? 1843 saw the birth of the fashion magazines, my loves! Oh the excitement! Now, I'm not just talking about any old magazine, think beautiful fashion plates, with dazzling illustrations showcasing all the latest trends. Think stunning silhouettes, all corseted waists and delicate floral prints - very ballerina-esque. The colour? Well, we all know, darlings, that pink is THE colour for a ballet lover. You'll be finding a LOT of it amongst the pages!
Remember darlings, there's nothing like taking a trip through the ages to truly appreciate how far ballet has come. And who knows, perhaps we'll find a little bit of inspiration from our ballerina predecessors and create a little something special! Let's leave those modern world ballet trends aside and get back to the graceful movement and delicate forms that captured the hearts and minds of the world! Perhaps there’ll be a new trend to start! Who can say what is coming in 2023 and beyond? Oh, I simply love the power of a whirl of a ballet performance to move fashion trends along. It is simply amazing, darlings!
Now, go forth, darling, and wear your tutus with pride! Be sure to let me know what you’re dancing to, what you’re reading, and what shows you’ve been enjoying! I’d love to know! Don't forget, this blog is for YOU! You’re lovely, your dancing is lovely, your fashion sense is exquisite! Let's share our passion for ballet and get everyone wearing pink tutus!
