Hello darlings! It's Emma, your resident Pink Tutu Time Traveller, and welcome back to my monthly blog! This month I've travelled all the way back to the glorious year of 1685, landing on the 10th of October, a date steeped in history and so much drama!
I wouldn't say this is a period that’s famed for it’s tutu-wearing (those will come later), but it's all about courtly elegance, royal dance, and those dazzling costumes. That said, it felt quite the contrast for my bright pink tutu as I galloped on Meg's shimmering back through the streets of London.
Magic Meg, my trusty shire horse (did I tell you she’s sparkling pink with golden hooves, a white mane, and tail? So gorgeous!), snorted her way down the cobblestones. I love travelling back in time – even with the smell of coal smoke and manure in the air – you can't beat it!
You know me, I'm always on the lookout for ballet history. And as a fan of the Royal Ballet, I had to visit the theatre that would eventually become their hallowed home - Covent Garden. It was still under construction back then, but I could feel the excitement!
In the 17th century, opera was the thing, and ballet was big! Ballet was an important part of court life. In fact, Louis XIV, the King of France, was himself a skilled dancer! You see how grand ballet has always been!
But what about the dancers in this time period? Well, the big story of 1685 is about a dancing woman who changed the face of ballet: Mademoiselle de La Fontaine. I was lucky enough to spot her – or rather, I was enthralled by her performances at the grand ball at Whitehall Palace! Now, there was an opulent setting if ever I'd seen one! Can you imagine performing there?!
It wasn't easy for women in the arts. There were few women allowed to take part, but this woman was truly unique. Her elegant style was quite unlike the bravura, acrobatic feats we’re more accustomed to now, but utterly charming. She moved with such delicacy and artistry, like a flower swaying in the wind. Her talent and beauty captured the court and she even taught at the Parisian opera, helping shape the evolution of dance as we know it. What an inspiration!
I know you all know, I simply can't resist a good fashion show and I love getting into costume myself. Today’s big fashion find in my leather rucksack – a perfect find! – was a 17th-century dancing dress from the collection of the Royal Ballet's archives! (Can you believe it?!) A beautiful silk gown in soft, powder blue, with long sleeves and flowing lines, oh so elegant. Just like what I imagined Mademoiselle de La Fontaine would wear on stage.
I even spotted her in the Royal Archives, and she was every bit as elegant as her costume suggested! Talk about a history lesson!
Of course, with every new time travel, my blog followers know the drill: I always pick up an item for the Pink Tutu Emporium. And let me tell you, the pink tulle, shimmering with gold beads, that I found in a shop on the Strand will be a star piece in our collection. It's delicate, gorgeous and oh so vintage – a piece of 17th-century history!
I'll be posting a photo of it later. (Stay tuned! Follow us on our social media for all the behind-the-scenes fun.)
And who wouldn't want a bit of history woven into their wardrobe? It’s a statement that screams “ballet aficionado.”
This month, I have a ballet tutu-ing tip! For the ultimate 17th-century look, pair your tulle with a structured, brocade bodice, and of course, a grand hairpiece adorned with pearls or other jewels.
I always enjoy dressing the part of a time traveler and sharing my fashion findings with all you pink tutu-lovers out there.
So, what about the contemporary world of ballet? Well, this month has been filled with exciting productions worldwide. Here in Derbyshire, the Nottingham Dance Festival is on. It's been fantastic seeing such amazing young talent on the stage. I went to see the company perform "Giselle", and I'm so excited for their future. You have to check it out – Nottingham’s not too far, you know!
Across the world, things are booming. In New York, the American Ballet Theatre is back with their spectacular spring season – it's unmissable for any serious ballet fan. You can even follow them online if you don't have the time for a quick time trip across the pond (as though!).
It's all go in the world of ballet this month. Do make sure you go out to see your local company’s latest performance. And let me know all about it in the comments – tell me about your local ballet stars! I want to hear from you, my gorgeous tutu enthusiasts!
Until next time, darlings! Keep shining your dancing light.
See you soon. Love,
Emma xxx
P.S. Make sure you subscribe to our newsletter, and get those tutus on! Remember – pink tutus for everyone! It’s not just a tutu; it’s a *life philosophy!
