Hello my lovelies!
It's Emma here, your resident tutu-clad time-traveler, and today I'm waltzing us back to the beautiful year 1880! Imagine a world without leggings, where frills and tulle reign supreme - that's what we're stepping into! And darling, let me tell you, there's so much to love about ballet fashion in this era.
Firstly, we're going to be ditching our usual bright, modern pink for a more subtle shade - a pale blush, like the inside of a rose petal! The Victorian era was all about romanticism and a sense of ethereal beauty. Think of Marie Taglioni, one of the greats - graceful, ethereal, and almost impossibly light on her feet! (And darling, wasn't her La Sylphide tutu divine? I bet those wispy layers would look fabulous on you!).
So, what’s on the bill in the world of ballet this year?
The most important thing I need to tell you about is the Paris Opera! Now, while this amazing place wasn't called the 'Opera Garnier' until a few years later, we were treated to some spectacular performances - and I mean spectacular.
One of my favourites is The Sylphide which was so wildly popular, everyone wanted a peek. And what did we see? Well, beautiful music and amazing costumes (imagine lots of silky white layers, dancing with the wind!) with stories full of romance, magic, and dancing like fairies! Imagine what a dream! Now, the French Ballet, in their big tutus and beautiful stage decorations (think flowers and greenery, perfect for a Victorian era garden setting!), created quite the buzz. Even some people travelled from Russia! Talk about jet-setting!
But here's a little secret, dear reader - Paris wasn't the only place where ballet was in full swing! In fact, I recently had the pleasure of attending a delightful performance by The Imperial Russian Ballet here in London, and I must say, their costumes were truly captivating! You see, darling, their ballerina's outfits are like little works of art! The softest pinks, and a hint of blush on their cheeks, perfect for delicate dances like 'Sleeping Beauty'! They also included all the beautiful lace and embroidery of the time - you can tell their fashion was high end. They really know how to dress!
And talking of fashion...
Let’s talk tulle, lovelies!
This is the year where ballet is REALLY showing off!
1880 is when tutu fashion REALLY starts to take its own form, darling!
This year the style is definitely all about the volume and frills, in soft shades of white, a hint of pale pink and a smattering of baby blue! The iconic layered tulle skirt with its fluffy petticoat was a favourite - imagine all the whirling and swirling as you danced - It's a magical look for any ballerina. (I bet we could pull it off on our next dance party!) And who could forget the pointed toe shoes that were in all the rage back then - so graceful! Imagine, the ballet has never been so pretty!
Of course, if you're looking for the more classical styles (for your delicate flower dances perhaps!), look out for the soft pastel silks and satin for those more elegant dances, adorned with exquisite detailing in delicate pearls and satin ribbon. Imagine, it’s just like stepping back into a painting - beautiful!
And darling, you can really make it your own, by matching it up with the time period’s famous leg warmers (although these weren't specifically for dance, you can take inspiration!). I have just got the cutest pink and baby blue ribbons to give them the most sophisticated look for those romantic ballet evenings - just divine, you simply have to add these to your outfit to be a total Victorian ballerina, darlings!
And darling, you just have to make your hair most appropriate! The romantic buns with intricate hair flowers or a stylishly side swept roll tied with an alluring ribbon are just the ticket for your hair. Imagine those graceful swirls on stage, looking effortlessly stylish!
But, darlings, before we say Au Revoir to 1880 (isn’t it just a delightful name to say?!), here’s the secret everyone is buzzing about -
the little, exciting secret of ballet fashion this year:
1880 saw the very first appearance of what is going to become a true dance staple! Drum roll please!... The Dance Belt! That’s right, lovelies! This is how they kept all those fabulous and frilly tutus on for those grand performances. Can you imagine a world before the dance belt, darling? It’s like being able to tie a lace around your waist for your ballet dress! A true godsend!
And finally... I have to share something truly delightful with you! Did you know that in 1880, London saw the first performance of "Giselle," which had to have the most romantic costumes (a real delight to behold! The romanticism, darling!)! Now imagine all those beautiful gowns with long flowing sleeves and the classic whimsical style of dancing - absolutely dreamy.
So darling, if you ever find yourself yearning for a world of graceful movements, beautiful tutus, and romantic performances, simply grab your pink tutu (don’t forget the leg warmers!), put on your dancing shoes and get swept up in the charm of 1880! It’s simply divine!
Until next time, keep on swirling!
Love,
Emma 💖
